Lead Rental Registry

The New York State Lead Rental Registry Law is in effect in 25 communities of concern as of November 3, 2025. Revised regulations will be published in the State Register soon.  

The nation-leading law addresses lead paint hazards in rental homes before a child experiences the harmful effects of lead.

Peeling and chipping lead paint and dust remain the primary source of childhood lead poisoning. The Lead Rental Registry Program is launching in 25 communities of concern (including Watertown) with the highest number of childhood lead poisonings and older rental properties. It requires property owners to address lead hazards in pre-1980 residential rental housing with two or more units within the City of Watertown.

Property Owner Requirements 

See full rules and FAQ:   https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/lead/lead_rental_registry/property_owners.htm

You are subject to the following New York State Lead Rental Registry requirements if you own residential rental properties built before 1980 with two or more units in Albany, Amsterdam, Auburn, Binghamton, Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Elmira, Gloversville, Jamestown, Kingston, Middletown, Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, Newburgh, Niagara Falls, Poughkeepsie, Rochester, Rome, Schenectady, Spring Valley, Syracuse, Troy, Utica, Watertown, and Yonkers.

  • Identify/verify your rental properties:  You will be notified of when and how to enter/verify your rental property information, including those units that may be owner-/family-occupied. This important first step will provide the local health department with information about your properties. Use this link to access the registration system.

    Lead Safe NY

  • Notify tenants: You will be asked to notify your tenants that their rental unit is covered under the New York State Lead Rental Registry, share the results of all lead inspections, and the status of required repairs.  You can notify tenants about the Lead Rental Registry by distributing this fact sheet.
  • When inspections occur:  Repair lead hazards: If lead hazards are identified, they must be fixed using lead-safe work practices. You may be asked to provide a written workplan that describes all required repairs and completion dates. Repairs must be conducted in accordance with all local, state, and federal regulations by an EPA-certified contractor. 
  • Learn more about available funding for repairs:

Are you a tenant?  Learn more here: https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/lead/lead_rental_registry/tenants.htm