If your home was built before 1978, it may contain lead paint. Understanding how to know if your house has lead paint is key to protecting your family and following federal regulations.
Lead-based paint was widely used in American homes until it was banned in 1978. While it was valued for its durability, we now know it poses serious health risks—especially to children and pregnant women.
This guide covers how to recognize lead paint, the risks involved, and what to do if you suspect it in your home.
Why Lead Paint Is a Problem
Lead paint poses serious health risks if it’s not dealt with. Lead exposure can cause:
- Developmental and behavioral issues in children
- Premature birth or low birth weight
- Kidney damage and high blood pressure in adults
Even small amounts of lead are dangerous, especially if ingested as dust.
There are also legal requirements associated with homes that contain lead paint. Sellers and landlords of pre-1978 homes must:
- Disclose known lead paint
- Provide buyers or tenants with the EPA’s lead safety pamphlet
- Include lead disclosure language in contracts
Failure to comply can result in fines and legal action.
Why It Matters for Home Buyers
Lead paint affects renovation plans, safety, and resale value. Homebuyers should ask about prior lead inspections and request testing before closing.
How to Know If Your House Has Lead Paint
Your home’s construction date is a good indicator for knowing whether your house has lead paint. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- 87% of homes built before 1940
- 69% between 1940–1959
- 24% between 1960–1978
Older homes are more likely to have multiple layers of lead paint.
You should also look for the following signs of lead paint:
- Peeling or flaking paint
- Dust near windows or baseboards
- Cracking or “alligatoring” paint patterns
These are common signs, especially on high-friction surfaces like doors and windowsills.
How to Identify Lead Paint Safely
Knowing where to look can help you identify lead paint. It is often found on:
- Windowsills and frames
- Door frames and baseboards
- Trim, railings, porches, and crown molding
Deciding whether you should DIY testing or hiring professional house painters to do it for you?
- DIY test kits are available but vary in accuracy
- For reliable results, hire an EPA-certified inspector or risk assessor
RELATED: Hiring a House Painter in Alabama? Ask These 4 Questions
Call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) to find a certified pro.
Avoid scraping, sanding, or using heat on old paint. These methods can release toxic dust. Short-term lead exposure symptoms may include:
- Metallic taste, nausea, headache
- Fatigue, memory loss, tingling hands or feet
If your home was built before 1978 and you see signs of deterioration, stop work and consult a professional immediately.
What to Do If You Suspect Lead Paint
First, confirm the presence of lead paint. If your home is pre-1978:
- Assume lead paint is present until proven otherwise
- Use a certified test kit (if you’re trained) or hire an inspector
At all costs you should avoid:
- Don’t dry scrape or power sand
- Don’t use heat guns
These methods are banned under EPA rules unless done by certified contractors.
Can You Sell a House with Lead Paint?
Yes, but full disclosure is required. Sellers must:
- Disclose any known lead paint
- Include the correct legal language in the sales contract
- Provide the EPA safety pamphlet
Buyers should ask for documentation and may request repairs or negotiate the price.
Can You Paint Over It?
Yes—if the paint is in good condition. This process is called encapsulation, which seals the lead paint with a protective coating.
- Use only EPA-approved encapsulant products
- Don’t use regular paint
- Hire a certified contractor for best results
Avoid encapsulation on:
- Surfaces that are damaged or peeling
- High-friction areas like windows and doors
- Places exposed to moisture
How to Get Rid of Lead Paint in a House
Encapsulation vs. Removal
Encapsulation is:
- Less expensive
- Effective for intact paint
- Non-invasive
Removal is:
- Necessary for peeling or damaged paint
- Requires certified pros
- Often involves wet sanding or chemical stripping
If you’re planning to repaint after lead paint removal or encapsulation, it’s essential to work with professionals trained in lead-safe practices. Hiring an experienced interior house painter ensures the job is done safely and complies with EPA regulations, especially in older homes.
Cost and EPA RRP Rules
The EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) rule requires certified contractors to use lead-safe methods.
Costs range from $8–$17 per square foot—about $10,000 to $30,000 for a 2,000 sq. ft. home. Grants or subsidies may be available for lead removal.
In coastal areas, you may also want to explore tips for paint protection in coastal environments.
Final Checklist for Identifying and Handling Lead Paint In Your House
Still wondering how to know if your house has lead paint?
- Check when your home was built
- Look for cracking, chipping, or flaking paint
- Use test kits or hire a certified inspector
- Avoid disturbing old paint
- Disclose any lead when selling
With the right information and professional help, you can safely manage or remove lead paint—and protect your family and home.
