A lead risk assessment identifies lead hazards -- not just the presence of lead paint, but deteriorated paint, lead dust, and lead in soil -- and is the inspection type most commonly required under Maryland's Reduction of Lead Risk in Housing law for rental properties built before 1978. It results in a formal report landlords use to obtain or renew their Lead Paint Registration and, where required, a Lead-Free or Lead-Safe certificate.

  • Covers paint, dust wipe, and soil sampling
  • Required for most pre-1978 Baltimore rental turnovers
  • Report supports Maryland Lead Paint Registration compliance

Common Lead Risk Assessment situations in Baltimore

A home built before 1978 with an upcoming renovation or sale

The EPA's RRP Rule applies to work disturbing more than 6 sq ft of interior or 20 sq ft of exterior painted surface in pre-1978 housing — testing before work starts avoids a compliance problem discovered mid-project.

Peeling, chipping, or deteriorating paint, especially on doors, windows, or trim

These are the areas where lead-based paint hazards are most commonly found and most likely to generate lead dust through everyday friction and impact.

A property management company handling multiple pre-1978 rental units

Recent rule changes now require more property management companies to become certified in lead-safe work practices — worth confirming current certification status rather than assuming past compliance still applies.

This content is reviewed by the Baltimore Lead Paint Testing editorial team and informed by licensed-contractor sourcing, manufacturer documentation, and established industry standards for lead paint testing. Read our editorial standards.