Get matched with top lead testing and removal specialists in Columbus, PA

No, a standard home inspection includes the basics and does not offer lead paint testing. Professional lead paint inspectors need specific licenses to perform these inspections, which not all home inspectors have. If you suspect lead paint in the home you are about to purchase, you will need to pay separately to have that done. If the findings come back positive, you may be able to negotiate with the buyer to cover the cost of the removal.

You can paint over lead paint, or “encapsulate” it with a special paint that includes an ingredient called an encapsulant. The EPA approves encapsulation as a lead paint removal method as long as the paint remains undisturbed. Standard types of paint without an “encapsulant” from the big box stores or hardware stores do not meet EPA standards for remediation of lead-based paint.

Lead exposure poses serious health risks, particularly for children, and can be present in paint, pipes, and soil.

DIY kits are available for basic air quality testing, but professional services provide more comprehensive results and recommendations. While a DIY kit may seem cost-effective, a professional assessment is more thorough. Inspectors are better equipped to catch all pollutants and hazards, and you'll still need a professional to verify and act on DIY test results. Furthermore, some kits don't test for certain pollutants or only detect their presence without measuring specific levels (like mold spores). It's generally better to opt for a detailed professional assessment.