Key Takeaways
- Lead-based paint disclosure is required for all pre-1978 residential properties (federal requirement)
- Radon disclosure is recommended; Pennsylvania has high radon levels in many areas
- Underground storage tank disclosure is required if seller has knowledge
- Pennsylvania has specific requirements for on-lot sewage systems (septic)
- Real estate auctions in Pennsylvania have specific licensing and conduct requirements
Last updated: January 2026
Pennsylvania Environmental Issues and Special Topics
Environmental concerns and special topics are important for Pennsylvania real estate transactions.
Lead-Based Paint
Federal Requirement
For all pre-1978 residential properties:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Disclosure | Seller must disclose known lead hazards |
| Pamphlet | Provide EPA "Protect Your Family From Lead" |
| Inspection opportunity | 10-day period (can be waived) |
| Records | Provide any lead testing reports |
Pennsylvania Lead Disclosure
Pennsylvania sellers must also:
- Include lead disclosure in Seller Disclosure Statement
- Disclose known lead-based paint or hazards
- Provide opportunity for testing
Radon
Radon in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has some of the highest radon levels in the nation:
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| What is radon | Radioactive gas from soil |
| Health risk | Lung cancer |
| Entry | Through foundation, cracks, gaps |
| Testing | Recommended for all homes |
Radon Disclosure
| Requirement | Status |
|---|---|
| Federal requirement | None |
| Pennsylvania requirement | Include in Seller Disclosure |
| Best practice | Disclose any known test results |
Important: While Pennsylvania doesn't mandate radon testing, known results should be disclosed. Many buyers test as part of inspections.
Underground Storage Tanks (USTs)
Disclosure Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Known tanks | Must disclose in Seller Disclosure |
| Removed tanks | Should disclose if known |
| Contamination | Material fact requiring disclosure |
| Heating oil tanks | Common in Pennsylvania |
Liability Considerations
- Current and former owners may be liable for contamination
- Remediation can be expensive
- Environmental assessments recommended
On-Lot Sewage Systems
Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act
Pennsylvania has specific requirements for on-lot (septic) systems:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Disclosure | Must disclose type of sewage system |
| Permits | Required for new systems and repairs |
| Inspections | Many municipalities require inspection at sale |
| Malfunctions | Material fact requiring disclosure |
Types of Systems
| System | Description |
|---|---|
| Public sewer | Connected to municipal system |
| Septic system | On-lot tank and drain field |
| Holding tank | Requires pumping |
| Alternative systems | Various approved technologies |
Water Supply
Disclosure Requirements
| Supply Type | Disclosure |
|---|---|
| Public water | Note in Seller Disclosure |
| Private well | Disclose, testing recommended |
| Water quality issues | Must disclose if known |
Well Water Testing
- Recommended before purchase
- Test for bacteria, minerals, contaminants
- May be required by lender
Real Estate Auctions
Licensing Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Auctioneer license | Required for conducting auctions |
| Real estate license | May also be required for real property |
| Disclosure | Auction terms must be disclosed |
Auction Types
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Absolute auction | Sells to highest bidder regardless of price |
| Reserve auction | Seller can reject if price too low |
| Minimum bid | Starting bid established |
Condominiums and Cooperatives
Pennsylvania Uniform Condominium Act
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Resale disclosure | Seller must provide condo documents |
| Review period | Buyer has 5 days to review |
| HOA information | Fees, rules, financial status |
| Right to cancel | Within review period |
Cooperative Housing
| Feature | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Ownership | Stock in corporation |
| Approval | Board approval often required |
| Financing | Different from traditional mortgages |
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Test Your Knowledge
What is unique about radon levels in Pennsylvania?
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Test Your Knowledge
Under the Pennsylvania Uniform Condominium Act, how long does a buyer have to review condominium documents?
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