Baltimore Lead Based Inspection HELP!

[Nicole Bryan]

Hello team!

I have a property in Baltimore that I'm preparing for a lead based inspection. I'm not familiar with the process however. Is there some kind of a pre-inspection list? Or a way to get a pre-inspection to be as prepared as possible for the actual inspection?

If there's anyone out there who is willing to do a 5-10 minute call to provide some counsel or mentorship on this I would really appreciate it. Thanks!

Nicole

[Ned Carey]

Another resource is Neil Roseman from LeadProbe.  Either LeadProbe or Ledtech can consult with you beforehand to give you an idea of what is needed.

To expand on what @Tim Youse said there are two big issues, compliance with the law and reducing your liability. You can be in compliance with the law and still get sued for lead paint (yeah I know crazy isn't it?) 

To comply with the law you need to register your property with the MDE (this is different than the Baltimore city registration)  You also need a lead certificate. There are two basic types of lead certificate Lead Free and lead safe. 

The XRF gun is used to detect lead paint and can go through multiple layers of paint to find it. Every surface in the building  is tested. If it is clear you get a lead free certificate. (or limited lead free which  means it is lead free on the inside but may have lead paint on the outside.) A full lead free certificate is only needed once and a one time fee to register as lead free.

The other test is a combination of visual and dust swipes.  There can be no chipping, peeling or flaking paint, and no friction surfaces (doors close without rubbing etc) And the dust swipes must test free of lead paint dust. 

As far as liability is concerned it is best to go lead free. Often a house only has minor amounts of lead paint, mainly on trim. This can often be replaced to make the house lead free. 

What I have said above is a tremendous simplification of the laws. Consult with a lead paint professional for advice on your particular situation.