Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint. If you have young children or plan to renovate, it's worth knowing what's on the walls, windows and trim.
Lead-based paint was banned for residential use in the United States in 1978, but many older homes still have it under newer layers of paint. It's most commonly found on windows, doors, trim, porches, railings and exterior siding.
Lead becomes a hazard when paint deteriorates or is disturbed, creating chips and dust. Young children and pregnant women are especially vulnerable, which is why federal law requires sellers of pre-1978 homes to disclose known lead-based paint and gives buyers an opportunity to test.
Home Inspections by SP&D tests suspect painted surfaces and submits samples for laboratory analysis, helping you understand where lead may be present before you buy or begin work.
Friction and impact surfaces are the most common sources of lead dust.
Sashes, sills and wells where friction creates dust.
Door jambs, baseboards and painted woodwork.
Exterior surfaces exposed to weather and wear.
Painted wood siding and trim on older homes.
Deteriorating lead-based paint can produce dust and chips that are easily ingested by children. The CDC states that no safe blood lead level in children has been identified.
If you're buying a pre-1978 home — common in historic Nashville neighborhoods — testing during your inspection period helps you understand potential repair or abatement costs.
Renovation work that disturbs lead paint should follow lead-safe work practices. Knowing where lead is located helps contractors plan the job correctly.
Mark's lead paint testing service covers:
Testing is most relevant for homes built before 1978, especially if young children live there or you plan to renovate.
Formal lead-based paint inspections and risk assessments for regulatory purposes must be performed by state-certified lead professionals. If you need one for a rental, renovation project or abatement plan, Mark will point you in the right direction.
Intact paint in good condition can often be managed in place. Deteriorating paint or planned renovation work should be handled using lead-safe practices or by certified professionals.
For homes built before 1978, federal law requires sellers to disclose known lead-based paint hazards and provide an EPA pamphlet, and buyers have the opportunity to test.
Clear information for older-home buyers and owners.
Call 561-301-7571 and share the home's age and any renovation plans.
Mark reviews painted surfaces and selects areas to sample.
Samples are submitted to a laboratory for analysis.
Mark explains the findings and lead-safe next steps.
Lead Paint Testing • Laboratory Analysis • TN License #1374 • Serving Nashville & Middle Tennessee