Lead Paint Abatement for Multifamily — Tell Projects Houston

Lead Paint Abatement for Multifamily

Lead paint abatement requirements and procedures for apartment buildings built before 1978. Federal and Texas regulations, contractor certification.


Any multifamily property built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint. Federal law requires disclosure and, in many cases, professional abatement. Failure to comply carries penalties up to $19,507 per violation per day.

Who's Affected

Properties built before 1978 are presumed to contain lead paint unless tested. The EPA's RRP Rule requires certified contractors for any renovation that disturbs more than 6 square feet of painted surface in pre-1978 housing.

Testing Options

XRF testing ($300-$500 for initial survey) provides instant results. Paint chip lab analysis ($30-$50 per sample) is more accurate. A comprehensive lead inspection tests all painted surfaces and provides a detailed report.

Abatement vs. Encapsulation

Full abatement (removal) costs $8-$15/sqft but permanently eliminates the hazard. Encapsulation ($3-$6/sqft) seals lead paint in place with a specialized coating. Encapsulation is cheaper but requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance.

Contractor Requirements

Only EPA-certified renovators can perform work on pre-1978 properties. Contractors must follow specific work practices, containment procedures, and cleaning verification. Always verify RRP certification before hiring.

Disclosure Obligations

Federal law requires landlords to disclose known lead paint to tenants before signing a lease. Provide the EPA pamphlet 'Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home.' Keep signed disclosure forms for at least 3 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my apartments have lead paint?
Any property built before 1978 may contain lead paint. Professional XRF testing ($300-$500) provides instant results. Lab analysis of paint chips ($30-$50 per sample) offers more accuracy.
Is lead paint abatement required by law?
Yes. The EPA RRP Rule requires certified contractors for any renovation disturbing more than 6 sqft of painted surface in pre-1978 housing. Penalties reach $19,507 per violation per day.
What is the difference between abatement and encapsulation?
Full abatement (removal at $8-$15/sqft) permanently eliminates the hazard. Encapsulation ($3-$6/sqft) seals lead paint in place but requires ongoing monitoring. Both are acceptable compliance methods.

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