Leveraging the perspectives and experiences of landlords and property managers for lead poisoning prevention
Background: Children residing in rental properties are at risk for lead exposure. This study examines experiences of landlords related to lead poisoning. Data & methods: An electronic survey was distributed nationally to a convenience sample of landlords and property managers through social media; a subset of participants provided additional context through qualitative interviews. Results: Knowledge, perceptions, and sources of information related to lead were inconsistent among survey participants (n = 82). Most (53%) identified cost as the biggest barrier to lead abatement. Some (19%) reported that real estate documents requiring disclosure of only “known” lead hazards discouraged them from testing for lead. In interviews (n = 8), landlords described an effort to ‘do the right thing’ but reported barriers to doing so. Conclusion: Many landlords and property managers had some knowledge of lead and a desire to keep tenants safe from lead exposure, but knowledge gaps remain. Landlord-facing interventions such as systematic education and expanded access to grant programs may be useful for lead poisoning prevention in rental properties.
