Lead-paint dust in your home
Exposure
The most common cause of lead exposure in homes is lead-paint dust. If you live in or are thinking about buying a house built before 1978*:
- Find out if there is lead paint in your home
- Repair any deteriorating paint on the inside or outside of your property
- Make sure children and pets aren't chewing on railings and other paint-covered surfaces
Watch the YouTube video in English to learn more about lead safety in your home
Watch the YouTube video in other languages
Health risks
Young children and pregnant women are at the greatest risk.
Lead poisoning can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs.
People and animals of any age can experience health problems from exposure to lead.
Testing children
If your home was built before 1978*, talk to your pediatrician about testing your child's lead level.
If your child tests positive for lead poisoning, we'll send a Healthy Homes inspector to help find and remove the source of the lead.
*In 1978 the federal government banned consumer use of lead-based paint.
