Lead Information
for Property Owners or Contractors

The most common way people are exposed to lead is from dust. Lead-based paint was used in more than 38 million homes until it was banned for residential use in 1978. Projects that disturb lead-based paint can create dust and endanger workers and residents in the home.

If you own or perform repairs at a property built before 1978, you are required to:

• Test painted surfaces for lead-based paint prior to beginning the work, or assume the surfaces contain lead-based paint and use lead-safe work practices
• Do not use belt-sander, propane torch, high temperature heat gun, dry scraper, or dry sandpaper to remove lead-based paint
• Maintain painted surfaces in good repair
• Check impact or friction surfaces (windows and doors) for dust or deterioration
• Landlord are required to disclose known information on lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards before leases take effect
• Sellers must disclose known information on lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards before selling a house
• Renovators disturbing paint surfaces have to give out the EPA's Renovate Right pamphlet

Federal law requires contractors that disturb lead-based paint in homes built before 1978 to be certified and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.

Contractors who want information about working safely with lead should visit the National Lead Information Center's website or call 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) for information about courses and resources on lead-safe work practices.

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