How much does it cost to remove lead based paint?

Question

Hi,

I'm looking into purchasing a 3 bedroom townhome in Alexandria VA (1,142 sqf living area) which has lead based paint.  It was built in 1974.  Can anyone offer an approximation for how much it would cost to remove the lead based paint?

Many thanks!

Karen Morison · Answer

I wouldn't worry about being super educated on an issue like that before calling a contractor (or three; I always talk to three to learn more and get a variety of approaches and prices).  I find they are fine with answering your questions and they're used to people not having any experience in their fields.  The same is true with plumbers, electricians, HVAC pros, etc.  That is not to say I don't do Google research, I do, extensively.  But I've followed this practice for years and it also helps me weed out which pros I want to work with and who really knows their stuff and who has my best interests at heart.  Best of luck with your property searching.

Robert Car · Answer

Encapsulate is essentially covering over stable lead paint using specific products to cover ovef the lead based paint. I believe the disclosure is by law in residences/buildings of certain dates/years.

Pavlos Kasselouris · Answer

Just because it has the lead paint disclosure it doesn't mean that it has lead paint. Its just a disclosure document that informs you of the possibility, required by the law. You will have to do an inspection during your due diligence period if you are interested in finding out.

Kristina Inglis · Answer

@Manolo D.   Would you mind explaining the difference between treated vs abated?  I would just like to be somewhat educated on the matter before I talk with a contractor that I might hire.    Thanks for taking the time to respond.  I appreciate it!

Kristina Inglis · Answer

@Robert Car not sure.  I haven't visiting the property yet.  The listing includes a disclosure about the lead based paint.  Since this topic is very new to me, I thought I'd ask just to get a basic idea to understand what I may be up against.   What does encapsulated mean?   I guess my question is, would children be able to live in an place where lead based paint wasn't removed?   Many thanks for your input!

Manolo D. · Answer

It can be treated or abated. Get a local company. Chances are you don't have to abate the whole house.