When to Get XRF Lead Testing in New York City

Where is Lead Found?

You can find lead in just about any environment, including the air you breathe inside of your home. The majority of lead exposure occurs from paint. We use lead elements daily, especially in the paint, makeup, batteries, etc.

Certified professionals can assess to determine the amount of lead present in the paint. An XRF lead inspection includes determining the amount of lead present and the location. Only certified professionals can conduct an XRF lead test.

Using XRF lead tests has been proven helpful in determining if there is an existing exposure and the best possible solutions to get rid of the lead. 

When is XRF Lead Testing Required in New York City?

In August 2020, Local Law 31 went into effect and required New York City owners of buildings built before 1960 to have every unit inspected for lead-based paint using an approved XRF lead test. According to the law, these are the following requirements:

• A certified inspector lead inspector must perform an XRF test
• All owners must have a completed inspection before August 9, 2025
• If a child under six lives in a residential building, the inspection deadline is shortened to within one year of moving in.

If you attempt to apply for an HPD lead exemption, XRF lead tests are also required. You can visit their website here to learn more about applying for lead exemptions. 

How Does XRF Lead Testing Work?

XRF testing is the process of testing for lead-based paint. Certified professionals use an XRF analyzer to measure the amount of lead in old paint. The analyzers can detect bursts of energy to determine the amount of lead within each sample.

XRF tests are found to be one of the only reliable, non-destructive methods for detecting lead-based paint. Since X-rays can easily penetrate paint samples, professionals can use XRF analyzers to detect any trace of lead, even when located under layers of paint.

XRF testing doesn’t require professionals to remove samples because damaged surfaces can release lead dust. When professionals use an XRF analyzer, every measurement takes seconds. It can test a large area surface for lead-based paint.

The Process of XRF Lead Testing in New York City

To comply with Local Law 31, a certified professional must perform an XRF lead test. XRF testing involves inspecting each surface to determine whether lead-based paint is present in a residential home or building. The certified professional puts the XRF analyzer directly on the affected surface to take measurements, then compares it to HUD standards.

According to Local Law 66, lead-based paint’s a positive result if a professional detects a measurement higher or equal to 0.5 milligrams per square centimeter in New York City. If measurements fall within a specific reading, sometimes they read as inconclusive. Professionals sometimes cannot detect an accurate XRF reading because of an uneven or damaged surface.

In the event of a damaged surface, professionals will collect paint chip samples to be analyzed by a laboratory. After professionals complete the inspection, owners can receive an inspection report that displays the findings. According to New York City HUD guidelines, the documentation should include the following:

• The inspection company
• Date
• Professional certification number
• XRF readings
• A positive or negative result
• XRF or laboratory information
• Sampling location
• Laboratory results (if required)
• Summary of if lead-based paint was detected

Why Choose Exit Mold for an XRF Lead Test Inspection

Are you seeking a reliable and certified XRF lead testing inspector in NYC? Exit Mold is here to help! We use the following XRF process:

• Detection – Our experts use the latest technology to identify lead-based paint accurately.
• Analysis & Reporting – Our professionals use proprietary software that provides a detailed analysis within 24 hours.
• Lead Abatement Solution – Our experts provide customized solutions efficiently remove lead paint hazards, ensuring the safety of your property

At Exit Mold, we use state-of-the-art XRF analyzers to give you accurate and efficient lead testing results. Our expert team of professionals can quickly measure the presence and concentration of lead in multiple paint layers to ensure the health and safety of you and your loved ones. Contact our team of experts today to schedule your XRF lead test for your home or business.