Get Ahead of Lead – May 23rd, 2025

In New York City, buildings built before 1960 (or before 1978 if lead is known to be present) are presumed to have lead-based paint. Property owners must follow instructions under the law for doing any type of work that could disturb a lead-based paint surface and cause dust or debris from the paint. The only exception is for a property that has had the painted surfaces tested and received results indicating there is less than .5 mg/cmsof lead in the paint. If no lead is found or if lead is safely removed, the owner can apply for an exemption.

Property Owners who meet the above criteria and have not tested for lead-based paint must:

  • Monitor painted surfaces and fix peeling paint in homes with children under six; or in shared building areas, with annual notices and investigations.
  • All repairs must follow federal and city safety rules and be done by certified firms/workers who follow prescribed safe work practices.
  • Lead-based paint must be removed from doors and windows when apartments become vacant.
  • Owners must test all painted surfaces by 2025 and keep records of all compliance activities for at least 10 years.

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