Frequent Questions About Lead
EPA has answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about lead and the Lead-Based Paint Program, which are organized by topic to help you find the information you need more easily. Select a topic below to view its questions and answers.
The responses to the questions are intended solely for guidance and neither alter nor supersede any statutory or regulatory requirements. The guidance provided often addresses the very specific circumstances stated in each question, so the reader should also consult other applicable documents (e.g., 15 U.S.C. 2681 et seq., 40 CFR part 745.80, the Preamble to the Final Rule, etc.). These responses do not necessarily bind EPA or outside parties. EPA evaluates circumstances on a case-by-case basis based on the statute and regulations, and these answers may not apply to a specific situation.
General Information About Lead
Lead is a toxic metal that is harmful if inhaled or swallowed. It can cause serious health and environmental risks. Find answers to frequent questions about general information about lead, including information on health effects, common exposure sources and how to maintain healthy and safe home environments.
Testing for Lead-Based Paint
The older your home is, the more likely it is to contain lead-based paint. Find answers to frequent questions about testing for lead-based paint in housing.
Questions About Testing for Lead-Based Paint
Lead Renovation, Repair & Painting (RRP) Rule
EPA’s RRP Rule aims to protect the public from lead-based paint hazards associated with renovation, repair and painting activities. Find answers to frequent questions about the RRP Rule, including information on renovations covered by the RRP Rule, pre-renovation education, work practice standards, recordkeeping and reporting requirements, firm certification, using the lead-safe certified firm logo, renovator certification and training, authorized programs, training provider accreditation, enforcement and inspections, and information for DIYers.
Lead Abatement, Risk Assessment & Inspection
Lead-based paint activities identify and address lead-based paint hazards in housing and child-occupied facilities (childcare facilities and preschools) built before 1978, and include abatement, risk assessment and inspections. Find answers to frequent questions about lead abatement, risk assessments and inspections including topics such as training, certification and work practice requirements.
Questions About Abatement, Risk Assessment & Inspection
Applying for Certification or Accreditation
All firms and individuals who are paid to perform renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb paint in pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities are required to be trained and certified in lead-safe work practices by EPA or an authorized Tribe, state or territory. Find answers to frequent questions about applying for individual and firm certification and training provider accreditation.
Questions About Applying for Certification or Accreditation
Lead-Based Paint Program Fees
In 2009, EPA issued a rule to address fees for its lead-based paint programs. Find frequent questions about the lead-based paint program fees.
EPA/HUD Real Estate Notification & Disclosure Rule
EPA and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) require sellers, landlords, real estate agents and property managers to provide specific information about known lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards before the sale or lease of most housing built before 1978. Find answers to frequent questions about the EPA/HUD Real Estate Notification & Disclosure Rule.
Questions About the Real Estate Notification & Disclosure Rule
Lead in Products
Lead may be present in consumer products made in other countries or in items that are no longer produced in the United States. Find answers to frequent questions about lead in consumer products.
Questions About Lead in Products
Lead in Drinking Water
Lead can enter drinking water when plumbing materials that contain lead corrode. Find answers to frequent questions about lead in drinking water, including information on how water systems control lead, how to reduce lead at home, how to test and understand results, and the laws and restrictions for lead in drinking water.
Questions About Lead in Drinking Water
Lead at Superfund Sites
Lead is a common contaminant at Superfund sites across the country, where it presents a risk to human health and the environment. Find answers to frequent questions about lead at Superfund sites, including information on understanding risks, protecting your family and home and reporting concerns.