Local Law 31, effective since August 2020, requires XRF lead paint inspections for buildings constructed before 1960.
Under this NYC regulation, property owners must have all surfaces tested for lead-based paint using EPA-approved XRF technology.
This law applies to both residential and multi-unit buildings — and compliance is mandatory.
Landlords who fail to provide proper documentation or complete the required inspections can face substantial fines and legal penalties.
Staying compliant isn’t just about avoiding penalties — it’s about protecting your tenants and ensuring your property is safe.
No confusing jargon here—just clear facts to help you understand your next steps.

Local Law 31 Lead Paint Inspection Services in NYC
At LeadFreeNYC, we help property owners and landlords comply with New York City’s strict lead safety laws —
including the latest updates under Local Law 31. Our EPA-certified inspectors provide fast, accurate XRF lead paint testing
to ensure your property meets all legal requirements and keeps residents safe.
What Is Local Law 31?
Local Law 31 is part of NYC’s ongoing initiative to eliminate childhood lead poisoning and improve housing safety.
As a major update to the NYC Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Act (Local Law 1 of 2004), this law sets clear
guidelines for lead inspections in older buildings.
Key Requirements
- Applies to residential buildings built before 1960, or between 1960–1978 with known lead-based paint.
- Requires XRF lead-based paint inspections by August 9, 2025.
- Testing must be done by an EPA-certified inspector.
- If a child under 6 lives in the unit, testing is required within 1 year (deadline was August 9, 2021).
Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines and violations from NYC’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD).
Our Local Law 31 Services Include:
- EPA-Certified XRF Lead Inspections
- Support with HPD Lead Exemption Applications
- Full Compliance with NYC DOHMH & HPD Regulations
- Fast Scheduling & Competitive Pricing
- Detailed Reports & Documentation for city submission
- Services tailored for single or multiple properties with zero hassle
Who Needs to Comply?
- Landlords & property managers of pre-1960 residential buildings
- Homeowners in buildings constructed before 1978
- Tenants concerned about lead safety in their current apartment
- New buyers or renters of older buildings
Why Lead Paint Is Dangerous
Lead is highly toxic and historically used in paint to improve drying, moisture resistance, and durability.
Exposure can lead to serious health problems, including high blood pressure, anemia, kidney damage, reproductive issues, brain damage, and behavioral or learning difficulties in children.
Why Lead Paint Is Still a Concern
- 24% of homes built between 1960 and 1977 contain lead-based paint
- 69% of homes built between 1940 and 1959 contain lead-based paint
- 87% of homes built before 1940 contain lead-based paint
Lead Paint Presumptions in NYC
- Buildings built before 1960
- Built between 1960 and 1978 with known lead paint
- Contain three or more apartments
- Units where children under 6 reside
How Local Law 31 Protects Your Family
Local Law 31 safeguards children and adults from lead paint hazards. At LeadFreeNYC, our certified experts perform thorough inspections and safe abatement to create a lead-safe home.
Compliance Deadlines & Penalties
Local Law 31 has been effective since August 9, 2020. The compliance deadline for required inspections and abatement is August 9, 2025.
Failure to comply may result in fines from $1,000 to $5,000 per violation, issued by NYC HPD and DOH.
Buildings Affected
- Single-family homes and rental properties
- Multi-family residences and apartment buildings
- Condominiums and co-op apartments
- Owner-occupied units are exempt, but exemptions may be applied for if qualified
How LeadFreeNYC Can Help
Our EPA-certified inspectors specialize in XRF lead paint testing and abatement services to ensure full Local Law 31 compliance.
We provide detailed reporting, expert guidance, and support throughout the compliance process — helping you avoid fines and protect tenants’ health.
Don’t wait until the deadline! Contact LeadFreeNYC today to schedule your lead paint inspection and achieve compliance with Local Law 31.
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