Lead Paint Assessment (Pre-1978 Homes)
Review and resolve any potential lead-paint issues. Document via the Lead Abatement acknowledgement template.
Spec
Applies uniformly from Certified upward.
Scope
Lead paint and lead in plumbing fittings in dwellings built before 1978 (the year the U.S. banned residential lead-based paint).
Requirements
- 01.
For pre-1978 dwellings: assess for lead-based paint on interior and exterior surfaces, including doors, windows, trim, and porches.
- 02.
XRF analyzer testing OR EPA lead-paint test kit acceptable for screening; positive results require a certified lead inspector to confirm.
- 03.
Any disturbance of lead-painted surfaces during the renovation must be performed by EPA RRP-certified contractors using lead-safe work practices.
- 04.
Document final clearance: post-work dust-wipe sampling showing lead levels below the EPA clearance threshold (10 µg/sq ft for floors, 100 µg/sq ft for window sills).
Documentation
Evidence the inspector / Institute will need.
- 01.
Lead paint test results (XRF, test kit, or lead inspector report).
- 02.
EPA Lead Abatement acknowledgement template (signed by Owner/Project Team confirming awareness).
- 03.
For lead-safe renovation work: RRP-certified contractor credentials + final clearance dust-wipe results.
Guidance
Why pre-1978 matters
The U.S. banned lead in residential paint in 1978. About 24 million U.S. homes built before that year still contain lead-based paint, primarily on window trim and doors where friction creates lead dust. Childhood lead exposure causes permanent neurological harm even at low levels — current CDC reference value is 3.5 µg/dL of blood, but no safe lead exposure level has been identified.
Resources
- EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Program →
Required for contractors working on pre-1978 housing.
- EPA Lead Test Kit Recognition →
List of EPA-recognized test kits for screening.
Note
Lead in plumbing solder was banned in 1986, and lead in pipes (1986 Safe Drinking Water Act). Pre-1986 plumbing with lead solder or lead service lines is a separate concern — covered under the Gold tap-water filtration requirement.