Letter from Dept. of Environmental Quality

State of Oklahoma

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

January 8, 1997

Dear Real Estate Professional,

The mandates of the Federal Lead-Based Paint (LBP) Notification and Disclosure regulations became effective for most real estate transactions on December 6, 1996. These federal regulations require that real estate contracts have a statement signed by the purchaser affirming that the approved pamphlet was provided along with a 10 day opportunity to procure an inspection for possible LBP. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) have jointly issued the disclosure pamphlet. Real estate professionals are primarily responsible for ensuring compliance with these requirements. It is obvious to us all that disclosure alone will not solve the problem of childhood lead poisoning. However, disclosure provides the avenue of inspection which can better equip a family to make informed decisions about their housing.

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has undertaken numerous efforts to heighten awareness of LBP. In addition, we have implemented a certification program for LBP Inspectors and Risk Assessors. This will ensure that Oklahomans have access to well-trained and competent professionals to assist them in identifying and addressing LBP hazards in their homes. However, we have had several inquiries from Oklahomans who are confused about which LBP professional they really need.

We have been overwhelmed by the positive response of real-estate industry professionals in Oklahoma. To assist you and your customers, the DEQ has prepared a fact sheet "Choosing the Right Service: A Lead-Based Paint Inspection or Risk Assessment For Your Home." This fact sheet should assist your customers with questions about the different types of professional services offered by both LBP Inspectors and Risk Assessors. We have provided one copy of this fact sheet to each licensed real estate professional. Please feel free to photocopy this information as needed.

Thank you for your assistance with this educational effort. If there are other means by which we can assist with providing LBP information, please contact Mr. Bill Mace at (405) 290-8247.

Cordially

Shawna McWaters-Khalousi
Shawna McWaters-Khalousi, Supervisor
Special Air Projects Unit
Air Quality Division

Enclosure
To See enclosure click here: DEQ Enclosure