New Jersey Lead Paint Inspection

About Lead Paint

Lead is a toxic metal that can harm health, especially in young children. Exposure can affect a child’s developing brain and nervous system, causing learning and behavior problems. No safe blood lead level in children has been identified.

Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint. When that paint deteriorates or is disturbed during repairs or renovations, it can release lead-contaminated dust and chips. Paint’s lead content cannot be confirmed by appearance alone. A visual assessment looks for potential hazards, while dust wipe sampling checks sampled surfaces for lead-contaminated dust.

Are Lead Paint Inspections Required in New Jersey?

New Jersey requires lead-based paint hazard inspections for certain rental dwellings built before 1978, subject to exemptions. After the initial inspection, covered units must be inspected every three years or upon tenant turnover, whichever occurs first. A turnover inspection is not required while a valid lead-safe certificate is in place. Lead-safe certificates are valid for two years from issuance. The next periodic inspection is due three years after the most recent inspection that resulted in a lead-safe certificate. Confirm your property’s exemption status and inspection schedule with your municipality.

For rental inspections covered by New Jersey’s lead-safe certification program, the required inspection method depends on the municipality. Some municipalities allow a visual assessment, while others require dust wipe sampling. Use the municipality lookup below and confirm current requirements with your local code office.

A visual assessment examines painted building components for deteriorating paint and visible dust, debris, or residue. Dust wipe samples are collected from designated surfaces, such as floors and interior windowsills, and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Who can Inspect for Lead Paint Hazards?

For inspections under New Jersey’s rental lead-safe certification program, property owners may arrange an inspection through their municipality or hire a lead evaluation contractor certified by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. Confirm the contractor’s credentials and your municipality’s requirements before booking.

Remedy Inspections provides both visual assessments and dust wipe sampling for lead-based paint hazards. The inspection method depends on the applicable requirements for the property and municipality. Since we only offer visual assessments and lead dust sampling we consider ourselves an impartial party as we don’t conduct any lead remediation or lead removal.

Which Lead Inspection Method Does My Town Require?

Inspection methods for rental dwellings covered by New Jersey’s lead-safe certification program vary by municipality. Search the table below to find the listed method for your town. Confirm current requirements with your municipality before scheduling an inspection.

To learn more about the New Jersey law, P.L.2021, c.182 - View New Jersey’s lead inspection guidance.

We’ll work closely with you ensuring peace of mind during the inspection process.