NYC Inspection
Understanding NYC’s Residential Lead-Based Paint Laws
Under NYC’s Local Law 31, landlords of certain residential buildings are required to conduct an X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) inspection for lead-based paint. These inspections must be performed by an EPA-certified inspector to determine the presence of lead-based paint in multiple dwelling units.
Local Law 31 applies to buildings constructed before 1960, as well as those built between 1960 and 1978 if the owner has actual knowledge of lead-based paint. Additionally, Local Law 29 (2020) expanded these requirements to include smaller landlords, such as owners of one- and two-family rental properties, except for units occupied by the owner’s family.
Affected property owners must complete lead paint inspections for all dwelling units by August 9, 2025, using EPA-certified XRF testing. Units where a child aged 6 or younger resides should have already undergone inspection. Landlords must retain inspection records and submit them to the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) starting in August 2025.
