Maryland requires most pre-1978 rental units to have either a Lead-Free or Lead-Safe certificate on file with the Maryland Department of the Environment before they can be legally rented. A Lead-Free certificate requires more extensive testing showing no lead-based paint remains; a Lead-Safe certificate is based on a risk reduction inspection showing no immediate hazards. An accredited inspector can tell you which applies to your property and what's needed to obtain it.

  • Lead-Free vs. Lead-Safe eligibility assessment
  • Documentation formatted for MDE submission
  • Guidance on which certification your property needs

This content is reviewed by the Baltimore Lead Paint Testing editorial team and informed by licensed-contractor sourcing, manufacturer documentation, and established industry standards for lead paint testing. Read our editorial standards.