New York State Lead Rental Registry Law Now in Effect

As of November 3, 2025, New York State implemented the Lead Rental Registry requiring property owners (landlords) to inspect and repair lead hazards per Public Health Law Section 1377. This law applies specifically to 25 identified communities with the highest rates of childhood lead poisoning, including the City of Utica and the City of Rome.

Lead is harmful and can cause brain damage, can interfere with a child’s learning and growth and cause other permanent lifelong health issues. Lead can be found in many sources including paint, dust, air, soil and others. Homes built before 1980 continue to be the leading cause of lead exposure from peeling and chipping lead paint and dust.

Landlords of two or more unit properties built before 1980 in zip codes 13501, 13502 and 13440 need to register their properties on the New York State Lead Rental Registry found at https://my.ny.gov/LoginV4/login.xhtml. Properties will then be inspected for lead. Property owners must fix and maintain their rental units free of lead hazards and recertify every three years or if ownership of the property changes.

Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency (MVCAA) will assist property owners in navigating this process, will conduct the property inspections, and provide certifications for the properties once they are deemed lead safe.

MVCAA Executive Director Amy Turner said, “Protecting children and families from lead exposure is not just a priority, it’s a responsibility we take seriously. MVCAA is committed to working together with landlords to make homes safe and healthy for every resident. We urge property owners to register now and use the resources available to meet compliance and protect our community’s future.”

For more information, visit https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/lead/lead_rental_registry/, oneidacountyny.gov/leadrr, or https://www.mvcaa.com/.

For questions or assistance with registration and inspections, contact Noreen Hartung, MVCAA Housing Director at 315-624-9930 ext. 2299 or nhartung@mvcaa.com.