Lead-based paint is commonly found in homes built before 1978 when the federal government banned its use in residential housing. Sellers of pre-1978 homes must disclose any known lead paint and provide buyers with the EPA's Lead Hazard Information pamphlet.
DIY lead test kits cost $10 to $40 at hardware stores. If you are buying a home built before 1978 with young children, testing is strongly recommended, especially for windows, doors, and surfaces that get frequent use.
Where Lead Paint Is Found
Lead paint was used extensively before 1978, particularly on windows, doors, baseboards, stairs, railings, and exterior siding. The highest risk areas are painted surfaces that rub together or get frequent use, such as window sashes, door frames, and stair railings. As these surfaces wear, they create lead-contaminated dust.
Soil around older homes may also contain lead from exterior paint that has chipped or peeled over the years. Young children can ingest lead from playing in contaminated soil or putting dusty hands in their mouths.
Seller Disclosure Requirements
Federal law requires sellers of homes built before 1978 to disclose any known lead-based paint hazards. They must give buyers the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home" and allow a 10-day period for lead inspection or risk assessment.
If you are the seller and you know about lead paint, you must disclose it. Failure to disclose can result in legal liability later. If you are the buyer, you have the right to conduct a lead inspection before you are obligated to complete the purchase.
Testing for Lead Paint
DIY lead test kits cost $10 to $40 and are available at most hardware stores. They use a chemical swab that changes color if lead is present. These kits are reasonably accurate but can give false positives or negatives. For reliable results, hire a certified lead risk assessor.
Professional lead inspection costs $200 to $500 depending on the size of the home. The inspector will test all painted surfaces and provide a report identifying which surfaces contain lead. This is particularly important if you plan to renovate or have young children in the home.
