Two Different Services With Different Purposes
Lead inspections and lead risk assessments are two distinct services, and choosing the wrong one can cost you time and money. Many landlords assume they’re interchangeable, but they serve different purposes and produce different results.
What Is a Lead Inspection?
A lead inspection is a surface-by-surface survey of every painted component in a property to determine whether lead-based paint is present. The inspector uses XRF equipment to test each distinct painted surface every wall, ceiling, door, window, trim piece, and exterior component. The result is a comprehensive inventory telling you exactly where lead-based paint exists and where it does not.
A lead inspection answers one question: is there lead-based paint here? It does not evaluate whether the lead-based paint poses a current health risk. All lead-based paint is flagged regardless of its condition.
What Is a Lead Risk Assessment?
A lead risk assessment is a hazard evaluation that determines whether lead-based paint in a property poses a current health risk to occupants. The assessor tests representative surfaces using XRF, but the focus is on identifying hazards rather than cataloging every surface. The assessment also includes dust wipe sampling to measure actual lead dust levels in the living environment.
A risk assessment answers a more practical question: is there a lead hazard here right now? Lead-based paint in good condition on a surface that is not subject to friction or impact may not be a hazard. The risk assessment distinguishes between the mere presence of lead paint and an actual risk to occupants.
Which One Does Cleveland Require?
Cleveland’s Lead Safe Certificate requires a lead risk assessment, not a full lead inspection. This is good news for landlords because a risk assessment is typically less expensive and more directly useful. The risk assessment tells you what needs to be fixed (if anything) to achieve compliance. A full inspection tells you where every speck of lead paint exists, which is more information than most landlords need.
There are situations where a full inspection is appropriate for example, if you are pursuing a Lead Free Certificate or if you need comprehensive documentation for a real estate transaction. But for day-to-day compliance with Cleveland’s ordinance, the risk assessment is the right tool.
Need help with lead compliance? Ohio Lead Pros offers fast, affordable lead testing and abatement services throughout Greater Cleveland. Call 216-633-2600 or request a free quote at ohioleadpros.com.
