September 18, 2002—U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has filed a 46-count complaint against two Chicago apartment building owners, for allegedly failing to warn their tenants that their homes may contain lead-based paint hazards. The properties are managed by Hyde Park Realty Company, 1743 E. 55th St., Chicago. A penalty of $76,890 is proposed.
Thomas Skinner, administrator of EPA Region 5 said, “By carrying out these enforcement actions, EPA is restating that protecting children’s health from lead-based paint exposure is one of our highest priorities. To this end we will vigorously pursue compliance with this rule.”
On March 6, 1996, EPA and HUD issued new rules to protect families, especially those with children, from hazards of lead-based paint in the home. Real estate companies and property owners must provide buyers or renters with a lead hazard information pamphlet, any information or reports concerning lead-based paint hazards in the property and a Lead Warning Statement to be signed by both parties. Sellers are required to provide purchasers an opportunity to conduct a lead-based paint evaluation.
Deteriorated lead paint is the most common source of lead exposure to children in the United States. About 75 per cent of the nation’s housing built before 1978 contains lead-based paint. When properly managed, it poses little risk. If not maintained, even low levels of lead exposure can threaten the health of occupants, especially children and pregnant women. Adverse affects include learning disabilities, growth impairment and permanent damage to the brain, nervous system, hearing, vision and kidneys.
