If you’re considering buying, selling, or even renting a home in Southern California that was built in the 70s or earlier, you’ve probably started thinking about the process of inspections and of course, lead paint testing or disclosures. Wondering who pays for lead-based paint inspection in this area is common, but we’ve got the answers.
We’re going to take a look at what is involved with lead-based paint testing, in particular, who pays for the inspection, and what may be involved with moving into a house with lead paint. In the end, we’ll point you toward a trusted local resource for lead-based paint testing and remediation help.
Why Test For Lead Paint?
Like countless other products that have been used and subsequently found to be hazardous over the years, like asbestos, lead paint was once very popular. It was durable and long-lasting, but eventually, it was found to be hazardous to children and pregnant women. This is because the paint can chip, peel, or otherwise be disturbed, and can create lead dust.
This dust is then inhaled or ingested by those nearby, resulting in elevated levels of lead in their system, and potentially even lead poisoning. Lead poisoning has been shown to cause significant developmental, behavioral, and health problems in those affected during childhood.
Who Pays For Lead-Based Paint Inspection?
In the state of California, the law requires that sellers, or landlords, of homes built before 1978 disclose the presence of lead-based paint hazards to anyone who may potentially buy or rent the home. While there is no law or regulation requiring it, the seller will often pay for the inspection as part of the general home inspection process of selling their home. In some cases, however, the buyer may pay for the inspection, sometimes to make their offer more appealing than other buyers.
Moving Into A House With Lead Paint
It’s more common than you might think to live in a home that has lead paint in it. In many cases, the paint has been treated or sequestered in some way, so that there is no longer any danger of lead dust being created or released. In other situations, even though the disclosure is required the lead paint hazard may have been removed or otherwise eliminated.
Nevertheless, if you’re considering moving into a home with lead paint, here are some additional steps and considerations for you, going forward:
- First and foremost, have the home inspected by a professional who is certified to do so. They can not only advise you of existing hazards, but they can offer consultation on how to remediate those hazards if needed.
- Ensure that all of the surfaces painted with the lead paint are in good condition, and not chipping, cracking, or peeling.
- Keep the home clean and free of dust with frequent dusting and mopping with wet mops and damp cloths.
- If you plan any renovation work in the future, you will need to ensure you work with one that is certified in lead-safe work practices, or you could face fines as well as endanger your family and all of those at the job site.
Home Biotesting Can Help With Lead Paint Testing & Removal
If you need to have your home tested for lead paint before a sale, or if you’d just like to have it tested to have some peace of mind, Home Biotesting is a trusted, local company that’s ready to help. Reach out today and speak to an expert member of our team for more information, or to schedule your lead paint test.