EPA-certified inspector
XRF testing for Local Law 31 must be performed by an EPA-certified lead inspector or risk assessor.
Quick and accurate XRF lead testing
XRF Lead Testing
XRF testing is the method New York City requires for lead-based paint inspections. A handheld analyzer reads the lead content through every layer of paint without scraping, drilling or removing anything.
Certification and NYC standards
EPA-certified inspectionLocal Law 31 requires a certified lead inspector or risk assessor
0.5 mg/cm2NYC lead-based paint threshold
No damagenon-destructive surface readings
Five boroughsNew York City coverage
Get XRF lead tested today
What is XRF Fluorescence (XRF Lead Testing) in NYC?
XRF analyzers are handheld devices, similar in size and shape to a radar gun, that test painted surfaces for lead quickly and accurately. XRF is a non-destructive method. Nothing is scraped, drilled or removed. The analyzer reads through every layer of paint, so it detects lead even when it is buried under decades of newer coats.
Our EPA-certified inspectors use XRF technology for comprehensive lead-based paint testing in New York City. Testing can cover walls and ceilings, interior and exterior doors and windows, trim work, flooring, cabinetry and other surfaces as needed.
0.5mg/cm2 or higher is legally considered lead-based paint in New York City.
Identify lead paint hazards
XRF Testing vs. Other Testing Methods
Different methods answer different questions. XRF is the accepted non-destructive method for identifying lead-based paint under Local Law 31.
| Method | Reads through layers? | Destructive? | Results | Accepted for LL31? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XRF analysis | Yes | No | On site, immediate | Yes |
| Paint chip sampling | Physical sample | Yes | Lab, several days | Limited use |
| Dust wipe sampling | Measures dust, not paint | No | Lab, several days | No |
| Hardware-store swab kit | No | Minor | Immediate, unreliable | No |
| Visual inspection | No | No | Immediate | No |
Why swab kits fail: Consumer test kits react with the surface layer only. Lead paint under later coats can return a false negative, while XRF reads through every layer.
Safe and reliable lead testing
When is XRF Lead Paint Testing Required?
Local Law 31 applies to multiple dwellings built before 1960 and to buildings built from 1960 through 1978 where the owner knows lead-based paint is present. The obligation falls on building owners, not tenants.
Covered older buildings
The automatic testing requirement applies to qualifying multiple dwellings built before 1960.
Known lead through 1978
The requirement also applies to 1960 through 1978 buildings where the owner has actual knowledge that lead paint is present.
Lead exemptions
XRF analysis is also required when an owner applies for an HPD lead exemption.
Confirm the inspection scope.
Share the property address, building age and reason for testing. We will confirm the required XRF scope before scheduling.
Book Inspection NowXRF testing for lead-free living
Licensed, bonded, insured and certified lead inspection in NYC.
Manhattan Lead inspectors and risk assessors identify and manage lead hazards across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx and Staten Island.
Team
Certified Inspection Team
EPA-certified inspectors perform the required XRF readings.
Quote
Affordable Pricing
The property scope is reviewed before inspection work is scheduled.
Results
Quality Assurance
Quantitative readings create a component-level inspection record.
Service
Quick Response Service
Call with the address and reason for testing to plan the next step.
Live XRF readingInspection recordSurface results
DocumentationAvailable on site
XRF testing, the smart choice
How XRF Testing Works
The analyzer reads the surface
A low-energy X-ray beam is directed at a painted surface and the device calculates lead concentration in milligrams per square centimeter.
Nothing is removed
The analyzer takes its reading in place. There is no scraping, drilling, sanding, dust or repainting afterward.
Results are immediate
You receive a quantitative reading for each tested surface without waiting for a laboratory result.
Every painted surface required for compliance
What We Test
The inspection scope can include painted components throughout dwelling units, common areas and applicable exterior areas.
Walls and ceilings
Doors, frames and casings
Windows, sills and sashes
Baseboards, trim and molding
Closets, cabinets and built-ins
Radiators and covers
Stair treads, risers and railings
Common and exterior areas
Get your paint tested today
Book XRF lead testing with a certified NYC inspector.
Call with the property address, building age and reason for testing. Manhattan Lead will help identify the appropriate inspection scope.
Book Inspection Now
Lead Paint Inspection NYC
Detailed lead paint inspection for residential and commercial properties, using visual assessment and professional testing to identify painted components that may contain lead.
Lead Paint Testing NYC
EPA-certified lead paint testing and risk assessment for New York City properties, with XRF readings, targeted sampling and organized laboratory findings.
NYC Local Law 31
XRF inspection and documentation support for covered New York City dwelling units and common areas under Local Law 31.
Areas we serve
XRF testing across all five boroughs.
Manhattan Lead serves Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx and Staten Island.
NYCFive borough coverage
Get your paint tested today
Reviews
Clients who hired Manhattan Lead for inspection and reporting.
“I hired Manhattan Lead Inspections to provide deleading services for my two-family rental unit. After the inspection was performed, they met me to go through the units in detail and prepared a comprehensive report. They started on time, worked quickly and efficiently.”
“The inspectors were efficient and provided a detailed report on their findings within a short timeframe. The report gave me peace of mind and I was able to move forward with my purchase knowing that the property was safe from lead.”
“The inspectors were professional, knowledgeable and provided a comprehensive report on the lead levels in my home. Their results were accurate and helped me make informed decisions regarding the safety of my living space.”
“Brian and the team have done work for corporate clients and individual ones, and we have been tremendously pleased.”
Frequently asked questions
FAQ'S
For a question about a specific building or inspection scope, call(212) 226-1614.
Is XRF testing safe?
Yes. The analyzer emits a low-energy beam directed at the surface being tested, and operators are trained and certified in its safe use.
Will it damage my walls?
No. Nothing is scraped, drilled or removed. The reading is taken through the paint in place.
How accurate is XRF compared to lab testing?
XRF gives a quantitative reading per surface and is the method NYC requires. Paint chip sampling with lab analysis is used selectively to confirm ambiguous readings or on substrates XRF reads less reliably.
Can I use a hardware store lead test kit instead?
No. Swab kits read only the top layer, so they miss lead buried under later coats, and HPD does not accept them.
Do I need XRF testing if my building was built in 1975?
Only if you have actual knowledge that lead-based paint is present. Local Law 31's automatic testing requirement applies to pre-1960 buildings. Call us with the address and we will tell you.
Who can perform XRF testing for Local Law 31?
An EPA-certified lead inspector or risk assessor who is independent of the owner and of any firm hired to perform remediation.
Do you serve all five boroughs?
Yes. Manhattan Lead serves Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx and Staten Island.
Let's Reach Out
Fill out a form so we can set up a phone consultation with you.
Share the property address and reason for testing. The Manhattan Lead team will follow up about the appropriate XRF inspection scope.