Paperwork Power Up: Mastering the TREC OP-L Form
IN THIS LESSON
(Time: 15 Minutes)
Your signed paperwork is your defense. Learn how to correctly fill out the mandatory TREC OP-L form and ensure you've documented the four steps required by federal law before closing the deal.
Form Fill-out Fast
1. The Four Compliance Checks You Must Get Signed
Federal law says the buyer must agree to four things before they sign the contract.
If you miss one, the whole deal violates Title X.
Check 1: The Warning Statement. (Language inserted into the contract.)
Check 2: The Federal Pamphlet. (Buyer must receive Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home.)
Check 3: All Known Info & Records. (Seller must give the buyer all reports, not just their knowledge.)
Check 4: The 10-Day Inspection Offer. (Buyer gets the right to an "X-Ray.")
You must ensure the buyer acknowledges all four federal disclosures on the TREC OP-L form. Test your knowledge by answering these questions about the required acknowledgments.
Activity: The 4-Part Compliance Check
(Required for CE Credit)
Question 1 (The Pamphlet): Section D of the OP-L requires the buyer to confirm receipt of what specific educational doc8ument?
A. The As-Is Addendum.
B. The Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home pamphlet.
Question 2 (Known Records): Which section of the OP-L is used for the seller to provide a list of ALL available records and reports to the buyer?
A. Section A (Lead Warning).
B. Section B.2.
Question 3 (Buyer Acknowledgment): Under the federal rules, the Lead Warning Statement must be included in the contract and acknowledged by the buyer. Which section of the OP-L contains this statement?
A. Section D.
B. Section A.
Question 4 (The 10-Day Right): The buyer's opportunity to conduct a 10-day inspection for lead is covered under which specific section of the OP-L?
A. Section C.
B. Section B.
Question 5 (Timing): The agent must ensure the buyer signs the OP-L before they become obligated under the purchase contract. True or False?
A. True.
B. False.
Lesson 3 Checkpoint: Documentation is Defense
The EPA now recommends buyers and sellers initial the form rather than just checking a box. This provides stronger legal proof that they actually read and understood the disclosure. Always get those initials! Your diligent record-keeping is the only defense against future liability.
Lesson 3 Final Quiz
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Section B.2
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The pamphlet Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home
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Section A
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Section C
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True
LESSON 3 FINAL QUIZ
1. What is the Texas form ID used for sales disclosure?
2. Which federally approved pamphlet must the agent ensure the buyer receives?
3. Brokers must retain a completed copy of the Lead Disclosure addendum for at least how long?
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Use this tool to find certified lead inspectors and risk assessors. You must provide the buyer with the opportunity to hire one of these professionals during their statutory 10-day inspection period.
https://vo.ras.dshs.state.tx.us/datamart/selSearchTypeTXRAS.do -
Detailed, simplified facts on the severe, permanent damage lead causes to the brain and nervous system of young children. Use this information to educate concerned clients on why the inspection is necessary.
https://www.cdc.gov/lead-prevention/about/index.html -
Learn the difference between lead Abatement (permanent hazard removal) and the RRP Rule (lead-safe renovation practices). Agents should only recommend certified Abatement professionals if a hazard is confirmed.
https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-abatement-versus-lead-rrp -
Official federal guidance detailing the requirements of the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (Title X), including compliance responsibilities and exemptions.
https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-based-paint-disclosure-rule-section-1018-title-x -
Link to the official site for reporting Lead Disclosure violations. This underscores the severity of the penalties (up to $16,000 per violation and potential criminal charges) if compliance steps are missed.
https://www.epa.gov/lead/report-lead-based-paint-complaints-tips-and-violations