When you’re on the hunt for a new home in NYC or surrounding areas, there’s a nifty federal law that lets you do a little lead testing. It’s all about figuring out if there’s any of that pesky lead-based paint or those lead-based paint hazards hanging around.
Now, why should you care? Well, especially if you’ve got or are planning to have some little rascals running around the house, this becomes a big deal. So, what’s the deal?
It’s not just about you; it’s about other people just as well – your family, your furry pals, and even your buddies who drop by. Knowing if there’s a lead hazard in your home and where it might be hiding is your first line of defense against any unexpected surprises.
In today’s article, we are going to explain you the difference between Lead Paint Inspection and Lead Risk Assessment. So buckle up and read about the differences.
What is Lead Paint Inspection (LPI)?
A Lead Paint Inspection (LPI) is a process where experts check every part of a building to see if there is any paint that contains lead. This is really important, especially in homes with kids, furry pets, and the elderly. This job can only be performed by trained inspectors who are certified to do it professionally.
The main objective of a lead-based paint inspection is to make sure there isn’t any amount of lead present within your home. To perform such inspection, a special tool called the X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) gun is used to test different surfaces that may have lead paint on them. XRF is a precision tool that delivers the exact percentage of lead present.
Lead inspection is highly important especially when you’re buying, renting, or renovating a home.
Lead Paint Inspection Procedure
The lead paint inspection process is simple and straightforward. It all begins with an inspector or a risk assessor performing a thorough lead-based paint survey by taking a stroll around the property. He/she takes notes on different rooms, and test spots, and collects lead-based samples.
Walls are labeled as Side A, B, C, or D, with A facing the street, then moving clockwise to B, C (at the back), and D. By using lead paint spectrum analyzer commonly known as the XRF technology they measure different lead content from painted surfaces.
If there’s 1.0 mg/cm2 or more, it’s considered a hazard. The lead paint inspection is performed keeping EPA’s standards and guidelines in check.
What is Lead Risk Assessment (LRA)?
A lead paint risk assessment is an investigation based on ascertaining the presence, nature, gravity, and precise location of areas that contain lead paint. The risk assessment mostly focuses on providing necessary recommendations on the management of lead present within paint, dust, or soil particles. Only a certified risk assessor possesses the legal authority to conduct such an assessment. It’s a more in-depth assessment that not only includes lead inspection but also recommendations on performing lead remediation as well.
Lead Risk Assessment Procedure
On the contrary, lead risk assessment is a thorough visual check of areas where lead hazards might be present in abundance. The process usually involves the testing of lead traces present in dust, soil, or water.
Lead testing can be a part of the whole process; lead risk assessment procedure involves other things as well such as on-site investigation reports on the existence, and reports on the nature & severity of lead present in structures.
Read More: Do All Homes Built Before 1978 Have Lead Paint?
Conclusion
Hopefully, now you understand the difference between Lead Paint Inspection (LPI) and Lead Risk Assessment (LRA). LPI focuses on finding the presence of lead on painted surfaces using specialized tools such as the XRF gun, while LRA takes a step further by evaluating the severity of lead hazards & offering the necessary recommendations for remediation.
Whether you’re buying, renting, or renovating a home in NYC, knowing which assessment suits your needs is essential. At “Manhattan Lead Inspection,” we specialize in thorough lead testing on NYC surfaces, providing you with the peace of mind you deserve. Dial (212) 226-1614 and get in touch with Manhattan Lead Inspection for a scheduled lead paint inspection in NYC.
