NJ Lead-Safe Certification Requirements
New Jersey law requires certain rental properties to be inspected for lead-based paint hazards. The requirements apply to nonexempt rental dwelling units, generally focusing on properties built before 1978. The program is governed by New Jersey’s lead-safe rental inspection law and N.J.A.C. 5:28A.
Useful links:
NJDCA, Lead-Based Paint Inspections in Rental Dwelling Units
NJ Lead-Based Paint Inspection Requirements
New Jersey Lead-Safe Inspection Law, P.L. 2024, c.74
Current New Jersey Lead-Safe Law
N.J.A.C. 5:28A, Lead-Based Paint Inspections in Rental Dwelling Units
NJ Lead Inspection Regulations
What are property owners required to do?
Rental units subject to the law must be inspected for lead-based paint hazards at tenant turnover or according to the applicable inspection cycle. Owners may use the municipality’s inspection program or directly hire a New Jersey DCA-certified Lead Evaluation Contractor.
NJDCA Certified Lead Evaluation Contractors
Find a Certified Lead Evaluation Contractor
How is the inspection performed?
Depending on the municipality and applicable requirements, the inspection may involve a visual assessment, dust-wipe sampling, or both. Visual assessments look for deteriorated paint, paint chips, visible dust, debris, and other conditions associated with lead-based paint hazards.
HUD Visual Assessment Training
HUD Visual Assessment Training
HUD Guidelines for the Evaluation and Control of Lead-Based Paint Hazards in Housing
HUD Lead-Based Paint Guidelines
What happens if a lead hazard is found?
If a lead-based paint hazard is identified, the owner must correct the hazard through appropriate remediation or abatement. After corrective work, additional inspection and, when required, dust-wipe sampling may be necessary before a Lead-Safe Certificate can be issued. NJDCA defines interim controls as measures such as specialized cleaning, repairs, maintenance, painting, and temporary containment.
EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting Program
EPA Lead-Safe Renovation, Repair and Painting
EPA Steps to Lead-Safe Renovation, Repair and Painting
EPA Lead-Safe Work Practices
Which properties may be exempt?
Common exemptions include certain properties built in or after 1978, properties certified lead-free, qualifying seasonal rentals, certain multiple dwellings that meet the statutory conditions, and units with a valid Lead-Safe Certificate. Owners should verify the exemption directly with NJDCA rather than assuming a property is exempt.
NJDCA Lead-Based Paint Inspection FAQs and Exemptions
NJDCA Lead Inspection Requirements and Exemptions
DCA Bureau of Housing Inspection
NJ Bureau of Housing Inspection
What happens if an owner does not comply?
Municipalities are authorized to investigate and enforce noncompliance. NJDCA states that an owner must generally be given 30 days to cure a violation by obtaining the required inspection or beginning remediation.
New Jersey Lead-Safe Enforcement Information
NJDCA Lead Inspection and Enforcement Information.
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