PM Requiring Lead Test & Dropping Lead-Positive Homes

[Seth Quade]

I own a 1952 rental in Atlanta. My property manager just announced a new policy for all pre-1978 properties they manage:

Their new requirements:

A mandatory $699 lead-based paint test on the entire property.

If the test finds any lead-based paint, they will terminate management immediately and will not manage the property again until full abatement and clearance are completed.

They say this is due to increased EPA enforcement and new expectations that property management companies be EPA-certified and keep extensive compliance records.

Their position is that a negative test minimizes future compliance obligations and repair costs.

What I’m trying to understand:

Is this type of policy reasonable or common for property managers curretly?

For a 1950s home where lead is statistically likely, is there any benefit to voluntary testing, given that a positive test becomes a permanent, documented condition?

In general, is testing older rentals considered smart risk management, or does it create more exposure if lead is found?

I'd appreciate your input and advice.  

[Drew Sygit]

@Seth Quade this is probably a company decision -> probably due to a recent lawsuit from a tenant that cost them thousands to defend, and maybe lost.

Recommend you ask them what Atlanta or Georgia laws are driving their decision. 
Also ask about any specific court case(s) for same.

Regardless, with lead-paint issues (and mold!) our attorneys always tell us we're better off NOT knowing as we can then plead ignorance. Once you know of a problem, your potential liability only INCREASES:(