Lead Testing and Removal questions, answered by experts
While not all homes built before 1978 contain lead paint, enough do, so you’ll still want to test to be on the safe side. The federal government banned lead-based paint for homes in 1978, but your state may have banned lead before that time. Around 24% of homes built between 1960 and 1977 contained lead-based paint, while 87% of homes built before 1940 contained lead-based paint.
If your home was built before 1978, there’s a chance that any paint on your hardwood floors could be lead paint—especially if it was already there when you moved in. Because lead is toxic, hiring a licensed pro to remove it is mandatory. The average price for professional lead paint removal ranges from $1,500 to $5,300 and depends on the scope of the project.
How you test for lead in your water depends on the source of your home's water supply. If you have municipal water, your local water system may offer to test the water for free or may connect you to a lab that will perform the testing.
If you have a private well that provides drinking water, you are responsible for testing it for lead. Look for a lab that is accredited by your state's Department of Environmental Protection to perform the test.
Professional lead testing services typically cost between $200 and $500, with the price varying based on the extent of testing and the specific areas tested within the property.
The average cost of a lead paint inspection is about $600, but it can cost as low as $150 or as much as $800, depending on the size of the area, geographic location, and the inspection methods.
Some of the most common lead paint inspection methods include:
Visual inspection: $150–$400
Paint sampling: $200–$600
X-ray fluorescence (XRF): $250–$700
Risk assessment: $300–$800
The Wheaton, MN homeowners’ guide to lead testing and removal services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Get expert insights on lead paint inspection costs, including key cost factors and ways to save. Learn what affects your estimate and how to budget effectively.
Learn how to hire a qualified lead testing professional for your home. Find certified inspectors, understand costs, and protect your family from lead hazards.