Pacific Coast Capital Investors, LLC, the owner of North Aspen Apartments in Salt Lake City, Utah, has agreed to a settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over allegations of failing to notify tenants about lead-based paint hazards. The company will pay a $74,082 penalty and has updated its lead disclosure practices as part of the agreement.
The EPA claims that Pacific Coast Capital violated the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act, Title X. This law mandates that homebuyers and renters of most housing built before 1978 must be informed about potential lead-based paint hazards before finalizing contracts or leases.
"EPA is committed to protecting the health and safety of communities in Utah, including in areas that have been overburdened by hazards like lead," stated KC Becker, EPA Regional Administrator. "This settlement will help ensure that Utahns have the information they need to make informed choices about where they live."
The settlement addresses the EPA's allegations against Pacific Coast Capital. The agency plans to continue monitoring compliance at the company's properties in Salt Lake City and will take enforcement action if necessary.
Title X was enacted in 1992 to protect families from exposure to lead found in paint, dust, and soil. Compliance is required from sellers, landlords, property managers, and real estate agents.
The announcement is part of EPA’s broader national strategy aimed at shielding communities from toxic lead paint risks. Many homes constructed before 1978 contain lead-based paint due to its harmful health effects; it was banned that year. Infants, children, and pregnant women are particularly susceptible to lead exposure. The EPA's Lead Strategy focuses on raising awareness about lead notification and renovation requirements while deterring violations.
Further details on Title X can be accessed through EPA’s Section 1018 website. Reports of lead-paint regulation violations can be submitted online.
