How lead gets released into a home
Lead paint becomes dangerous mainly when it deteriorates or is disturbed, releasing lead chips or dust that people can swallow or breathe. Intact paint in good condition is a lower immediate risk than paint that is breaking down.
Common ways lead gets released include paint that is peeling, chipping, cracking, or flaking; friction on painted surfaces like windows and doors that grinds paint into dust; and repairs or renovation that sand, scrape, or tear out painted surfaces without proper precautions. Lead dust can settle on floors, windowsills, and toys.
Young children face the highest risk because they play on the floor and often put their hands and objects in their mouths, so even small amounts of lead dust matter. Pregnant tenants also need to avoid exposure.
This is why the safety advice is: do not sand, scrape, or dry-sweep suspected lead paint yourself, since that can create the very dust you want to avoid. If lead paint in your home is deteriorating or being disturbed, a free, confidential review can help you understand your rights.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.