Lead Law (IMAGE) Brown University Caption Rhode Island law requires landlords to take measures to protect tenants from lead exposure. The law works, researchers have found, but only one property in five covered by the law was in compliance more than four years after it took effect. Owner-occupied homes with less than four units are exempt, but many have potential lead hazards that can poison children." Credit Mark Nickel/Brown University Usage Restrictions with credit License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.