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EPA Cites Williamsport Landlord, Agent for Failing to Inform Tenants of Lead Paint

Release Date: 4/18/2000
Contact Information: Ruth Podems (215) 814-5540

Ruth Podems, 215-814-5540

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has cited Williamsport landlords Gerald and Susan Kimble and their agent, Russ Lentz, for violating a federal law requiring disclosure of lead paint information to residential tenants. EPA’s administrative complaints involve two units owned by the Kimble Properties here.

According to EPA, the Kimbles, with Mr. Lentz as their agent, leased the properties in 1997 and 1998 to residential tenants without disclosing prior notices about the presence of lead-based paint in both units. In separate complaints, EPA seeks $49,600 in penalties against the Kimbles and an equal sum against Mr. Lentz.

Under the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992, sellers and landlords of most residential housing built before 1978 must disclose to purchasers and tenants the presence of known lead-based paint hazards; provide a lead hazard information pamphlet; provide a standard lead-warning statement on the dangers of lead-based paint; provide purchasers with a 10-day opportunity to conduct a lead-based paint inspection; and include disclosure and acknowledgment language in sales contracts and leases.

Lead-based paint hazards pose serious health effects for babies and young children up to six years of age, and pregnant or nursing mothers. Pregnant women exposed to high levels of lead can transfer the lead to their unborn babies, and infants can absorb lead from their mothers' breast milk. Signs of lead poisoning may not be obvious in its early stages, but the ill effects to children include learning disabilities, decreased growth, hyperactivity, impaired hearing, and even brain damage. Many scientists contend that neurological damage from lead is irreversible.

The Kimbles and Mr. Lentz have the right to a hearing to contest the alleged violations and proposed penalty. For more information on the Lead Disclosure Rule, please visit the EPA’s website at: www.epe.gov/reg3wcmd/leadisc.htm or www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/leadbase.htm.



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