Existing Tenant Occupied Rental Units.

The New Jersey Lead Paint inspection regulations for dwelling units went into effect on July 22, 2022.

The law requires all rental units built 1978 or earlier to be inspected for lead-based paint.

For an existing tenant unit the inspection must take place within two (2) years of the law going into effect (effective date July 22, 2022).

The two (2) year grace period only applies if there is not a change in the current tenant occupying the unit. The inspection must be completed by July 22, 2024.

New Tenant/Tenant Turnover

For a new tenant/tenant turnover the unit must be inspected for lead paint prior to tenant occupancy.

There is not a grace period for new tenant/tenant turnover and is effective starting July 22, 2022. 

if there is a current lead safe certification for the unit the unit does not have to be inspected at tenant turnover.

New Jersey Lead-Based Paint Method of Inspection

There are two (2) types of inspection methods for New Jersey lead-based paint inspections of rental dwellings.

The method of inspection to be used is determined by the percentage of children six years and under located in the municipality that have elevated blood lead levels (EBLs).

For a municipality where less than three (3) percent of the children six years and under tested have blood lead levels less than five (5) micrograms/deciliter, then a visual inspection only is required.

For a municipality where less than three (3) percent of the children six years and under tested have blood lead levels above five (5) micrograms/deciliter, then dust wipe sampling is required.

Visual Inspection

The visual inspection consist of the lead paint inspector checking all areas of the residence for peeling, chipping, chalking and cracking paint.

The lead paint inspector will also be checking for visible surface dust and debris.

The lead paint inspector will issue a lead safe certification, once the residence has passed the visual inspection.

The Lead Safe Certification is good for two (2) years.

Lead Inspection including Dust Wipe Sampling

The inspection consist of the lead paint inspector conducting a visual inspection of the residence in accordance with the visual inspection requirements plus dust wipe sampling.

Dust wipe samples are collected on interior window sills and floors in accordance with HUD guidelines and N.J.A.C 5:17.

The lead paint inspector will issue a lead safe certification, once the residence has passed the visual inspection and all dust wipe sample have passed.

The Lead Safe Certification is good for two (2) years.