Lead-Based Paint Requirements for Property Owners

If you own a building constructed before 1960, you have specific responsibilities regarding lead-based paint hazards, including testing and potential remediation or abatement. For detailed information about your obligations and the requirement to complete testing by August 2025, visit www.nyc.gov/hpd and search “Lead-Based Paint.”

How do I get lead-based paint testing done?

You must hire an EPA-certified Lead Paint Inspector or Risk Assessor to test all apartments and common areas using an XRF (X-ray fluorescence) device, which identifies lead in paint. To find a qualified contractor, visit www.epa.gov and search for “lead certified contractors.”

What should I do if lead is found?

If peeling lead-based paint is found in any apartment where a child under six lives, you must immediately hire an EPA-certified contractor to safely address the hazard. If the paint is intact or there is no child under six who regularly spends at least 10 hours per week in the unit, you are not required to take immediate action. For more guidance, search “HPD LEAD” on YouTube to access webinars on managing lead hazards.

How do I show proof of testing?

You are required to keep the testing records from your contractor for 10 years and provide them to HPD if requested.

When is the deadline?

All apartments and common areas must be tested for lead-based paint by August 9, 2025.

What happens if I don’t comply?

Failure to complete the required testing may result in a Class “C” immediately hazardous violation and could lead to civil penalties of up to $1,500.