NYC Lead Paint Law Guide
An overview of New York City's lead-paint laws — Local Law 1, Local Law 31, HPD disclosure requirements, and the federal Lead Disclosure Rule. Informational only — not legal advice.
What Does NYC Local Law 1 Require of Landlords?
NYC Local Law 1 of 2004 (the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Act) requires owners of multiple dwellings built before 1960 (or before 1978 if known to contain lead-based paint) to conduct annual visual inspections of each unit where a child under six years of age resides. If a hazard is identified, the owner must remediate it promptly. Owners must also provide annual written notice to tenants about the owner's obligations and the tenant's right to request an inspection.
What Did Local Law 31 Add, and What Was the 2025 Deadline?
NYC Local Law 31 of 2020 significantly expanded Local Law 1 obligations. By 2025, owners of covered pre-1960 buildings (and pre-1978 buildings with known lead paint) must complete XRF (X-ray fluorescence) testing of all friction and impact surfaces in dwelling units where a child under six resides. XRF testing provides a fast, non-destructive way to measure lead levels in paint — the EPA hazard threshold is 1.0 mg/cm². Owners who had not completed testing by the deadline face HPD enforcement action. See the NYC HPD lead-based paint page for current compliance guidance.
What Is the Federal Lead Disclosure Rule?
The EPA/HUD Residential Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule applies to the sale or lease of housing built before 1978. Sellers and landlords must disclose any known lead-based paint hazards, provide buyers and tenants with available inspection reports, and provide a copy of the EPA-approved pamphlet Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home. Buyers have a 10-day period to conduct an inspection before finalising a purchase contract (this period can be waived in writing).
What Is the EPA's Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule?
The EPA RRP Rule requires contractors performing renovation, repair, or painting work that disturbs lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes and child-occupied facilities to be certified by the EPA and to follow specific lead-safe work practices to prevent contaminating the home with lead dust. Homeowners undertaking DIY work in their own residence are not covered by RRP but should follow HUD lead-safe work practice guidelines.
Disclaimer
This page is an independent informational resource. Content cites EPA, CDC, NYC HPD, and HUD as primary sources. Informational only — not legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney and a certified lead inspector for guidance on your specific situation. Last updated 2026-06-26.