FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LEAD PAINT

Browse the information below or go to the full printable version of the lead fact sheet (pdf):

I live in an older home. Is my family at risk from lead-based paint?

In general, the older the home, the more likely lead paint was used on and in it. This is especially true for homes built prior to 1950, but lead-based paints were widely used up to the time they were banned for residential purposes in 1978. However, the presence of lead paint does not necessarily mean that it presents a hazard. To present a health threat, it must somehow enter the body. Paint that is well cared for generally does not pose a danger. However, even in well-maintained homes, friction and impact surfaces, such as door jambs or sliding widows, can create fine lead dust that can be inhaled or swallowed.
 

How can I tell if the lead is a hazard in my home?

The surest method is to use the services of a certified lead-based paint inspector or a risk assessor. An inspector can tell you if there is lead in the home; a risk assessor can tell you the extent of the hazard. Home test kits for lead are available, but may not always be accurate. Consumers should not rely on these kits to determine if lead is a hazard in their home. The home test kit can only tell you if lead is present on a surface. It cannot tell you how much lead there is, if there is a lead paint hazard, or what needs to be done to repair the hazard.

A list of labs that demonstrate the ability to accurately analyze paint chip, dust, or soil samples for lead is available at National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (NLLAP) List (pdf) -  For more information on the National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (EXIT to EPA).

How can I safely remodel/renovate my home?

Handle with care. Once released into the environment, lead doesn't break down, and its dust can be invisible to the eye and still cause lead poisoning. Whether you are planning to do the work yourself, or to hire a professional, it is important that you educate yourself about how 'lead-safe' remodeling. If you are going to hire a professional painter or remodeler, ask the contractor before the work starts what he or she knows about lead-safe work practices and the steps that he or she plan to take to reduce or eliminate lead-based paint hazards during the job. Any contactor removing or stabilizing paint on housing or child care settings built before 1978 must also have a Lead-Based Paint Permit from the Lead-Based Paint Program. The Lead-Based Paint Program has several publications on remodeling for do-it-yourselfers, property owners, property managers, and professionals.

• Tips for Remodeling and Fix Up
  
  
• Lead-safe Remodeling (pdf)
  
  
• Lead Awareness for Landlords (pdf)
  
  
• Questions to Ask to Find a LEAD-SAFE Remodeler (pdf)
  

What kind of professional lead-based paint services are available in Oregon?

There are several types of services available. The Lead-Based Paint Program (LBPP) certifies lead based paint Inspectors, Risk Assessors, Supervisors, Project Managers, and Workers. If you are interested in hiring a certified lead-based paint professional to work on your home, please see the list of certified companies to identify contractors that work on individual residential properties. These professionals are trained in abatement, which means they can permanently remove lead hazards from a property. The program also maintains a list of Lead Paint Permits Holders who are required to use lead-safe work practices while removing or stabilizing lead-based paint on pre-1978 homes or child care facilities. 

What if my neighbor’s home is being professionally painted or remodeled and paint chips and dust are getting in my yard and home? 

Any professional removing or stabilizing (painting/remodeling) lead-based paint must:

• Obtain a Lead-Based Paint Permit;
• Use lead-safe work practices and
• Post a sign visible from 30 feet, warning the public of possible lead-based paint hazards.

The Lead-Based Paint Program regulates these professionals and actively enforces violations of unsafe work practices. Program staff follow up on all tips and complaints. To file a complaint or to report unsafe work practices:

PHONE:        Glenn Kawanishi at 971-673-0436

                    Lead-Based Paint Program at 971-673-0440 

                    LeadLine a toll free phone service at 1-800-368-5060

E-MAIL:       glenn.k.kawanishi@state.or.us

The Lead-Based Paint Program can provide a list of certified lead inspectors and risk assessors  if you need to test for lead contamination in your home or in the soil. A list of certified specialists in cleaning up lead contamination is also available.

What if I live in an older rental property?

When you rent a property built before 1978 the landlord is required to have you sign a standard Disclosure Form, as required under Federal law. The landlord is also required to give you a pamphlet entitled "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home". According to the Federal law, the landlord is only required to disclose to you any knowledge that he or she has of lead-based paint (LBP) in the house. If he/she has no knowledge of LBP, he/she is not required to conduct an inspection or make a special effort to find out if lead based paint is present. The only obligation is to disclose current knowledge. 

Lead-based paint is usually not a hazard if it is in good condition and is not on a window, door, or other area where the surfaces may rub together and create lead dust. Chipping, peeling, cracking or damaged paint is a hazard and needs attention. If you see chipping paint or other lead paint hazards, notify your landlord.

See our educational material & web resources page for more information on working lead-safe and preventing lead poisoning.