When a landlord is liable for lead poisoning
A landlord may be legally responsible when their failure to address a lead hazard causes a child's lead poisoning. Whether that is the case depends on the facts, but it is important to understand your rights, because the harm to children can be lasting.
A claim is stronger when the landlord knew or should have known about lead paint or a lead hazard — for example, peeling paint in a pre-1978 building — failed to disclose or fix it, or disturbed it through unsafe work, and a child was exposed and poisoned as a result. Failing to give required lead disclosures can also matter.
These cases often involve serious, permanent harm to a child's development and future, which is why the law treats childhood lead poisoning so seriously.
First, get your child medical care and follow the doctor's guidance. Then preserve evidence — the blood test results, photos of peeling paint, the building's age, any lead disclosures, and your repair requests. Our firm handles serious injury claims. A free, confidential review can explain whether your family may be owed compensation.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.