Have you ever walked into a home while you were house hunting and just known this would be the one you’d choose? The vintage charm, the history, the character… but wait. Before you trail off too far, with vintage homes comes the creeping dangers of lead paint.
If you’re living in a house that’s a few decades (or centuries) old, there’s a good chance it was painted with lead-based paint.
Now, you might be thinking, Do I really need an EPA lead paint inspector? The short answer is: yes, you might.
Read this blog to learn more.
So, Who’s an EPA Lead Paint Inspector Anyway?
An EPA lead paint inspector is someone who’s trained to detect lead-based paint in homes. They’re certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which means they’ve gone through special training and exams to learn how to test for lead paint in a safe and effective way.
These inspectors use tools such as an XRF analyzer to detect lead in the paint without having to scrape or damage your walls.
Is Lead Paint Really That Big of a Deal?
Lead-based paint can be dangerous, especially when it starts to crack, chip, or get disturbed in any way. That’s when it turns into lead dust, which can easily find its way into the air and onto your floors, windowsills, and practically every other surface in your home.
Lead is toxic, and the health risks aren’t just a concern for adults. Children, especially those under 6, are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning.
Even low levels of lead exposure can lead to developmental delays, learning difficulties, and even behavioral problems. It can also cause health issues for adults, such as high blood pressure and kidney problems.
When Should You Call an EPA Lead Paint Inspector?
Given the risks of lead paint, it’s important to be well-aware of scenarios where calling in an EPA lead paint inspector is a no-brainer:
1. You Live in an Older Home
If your home was built before 1978, there’s a good chance it has lead-based paint.
In fact, the EPA estimates that about 3/4 of homes built before 1978 have lead paint somewhere on the property.
2. You’re Doing Some Renovations
Are you planning a remodel?
Whether you’re updating the kitchen, replacing some trim, or just painting the walls, renovations can stir up lead dust if there’s lead-based paint hiding underneath the surface. Even something as simple as sanding down an old windowsill can release dangerous lead particles into the air.
If you’re doing any sort of renovation, repair, or construction on a home built before 1978, you should definitely have a lead paint inspection first.
3. You Have Little Kids (or a Baby on the Way)
If you’ve got young children or are expecting, lead exposure should be at the top of your radar.
Kids are more likely to come into contact with lead dust. And since their bodies absorb lead more easily than adults, even small amounts of exposure can have serious consequences.
4. You’re Buying or Selling an Older Home
If you’re buying or selling a home that was built before 1978, it’s often required (or at least highly recommended) to get a lead paint inspection.
Federal law says that buyers must be given a 10-day period to test for lead in homes built before 1978. So if you’re house-hunting in an older neighborhood, make sure to schedule a lead inspection during that time frame.
What to Expect During a Lead Paint Inspection
If you’ve decided to go ahead with a lead paint inspection, here’s what you can expect during the process.
The inspector will initially carry out a visual inspection to look for signs of peeling or chipping paint. With an XRF analyzer, they will then check painted surfaces for lead. It’s quick, non-invasive, and gives them an instant reading.
If needed, they might take paint chip samples or test dust or soil in your home. The inspection is pretty thorough, and the inspector will give you a detailed report afterwards with all their findings.
Why Should You Hire an EPA-Certified Inspector?
As homeowners, many of us are accustomed to DIY-ing our way through life. Tap leaks, clogged toilets, tightening door hinges…you name it.
But a lead inspection?
That’s a job best left to the professionals.
A certified lead paint inspector is specifically trained to find lead and assess the risks. They use special equipment, and they’re up to date on all the safety protocols and legal requirements. When it comes to something as serious as lead, you don’t want to take chances.
Also Read: What Is XRF Lead Testing and Why It’s the Most Accurate Method?
Keeping Your Home Lead-Safe
In between your busy life schedule and making out time for family, friends, and everything in between, lead paint probably sits neatly at the end of your to-do list.
However, if you live in an older home, you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to know exactly what’s behind those walls.
An EPA lead paint inspector is your best bet for making sure your home is safe. Manhattan Lead is a great choice for reliable, certified lead inspections.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Get your home checked, stay informed, and keep your family safe!
