DE HB452

Requires all rental units constructed before January 1, 1978, to be certified as "lead free" or "lead safe" by staggered deadlines: before 1950 by January 1, 2026; before 1960 by January 1, 2027; before 1970 by January 1, 2028; and before 1978 by January 1, 2029.

Establishes certification requirements by approved lead inspectors, recertification timelines (every 4 years for "lead safe" units), and disclosure requirements in rental agreements starting July 1, 2026.

Mandates landlords provide alternative housing when a rental unit is uninhabitable due to lead hazards and prohibits rent increases on remediated properties for 3 years.

Creates a Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control Grant and Loan Program to assist landlords with certification and remediation costs, with preference for units housing children under 6 or pregnant individuals.

Prohibits discrimination against tenants with elevated blood lead levels, those with children or pregnant individuals, or those filing complaints about lead hazards, and requires proof of lead compliance before landlords can file eviction actions.