"CSI was flexible and was able to schedule a home inspector the day after I got a bid accepted on a house. The inspector, Patrick, showed up on time and the inspection took about 4 hours. Patrick was responsive to any questions I had by email or live during the inspection. My one recommendation is that I requested a pest, mold, radon, and home inspection. It would be a better heads up if they explained that they sometimes outsource the radon inspection depending on availability of radon inspectors. Also, they can explain a bit more for new home buyers what is involved with a mold inspection. Patrick ended up just eyeing whether he spotted any mold. Because he did not see any mold, we did not have to pay extra for mold samples."
"Bill and his team did an excellent job in handling the remediation for water that got into my home. Would highly recommend them given their promptness and general assistance in getting this situation under control."
"CHC did a magnificent job and my husband and I are pleased with the services provided. The staff members and owner of CHC were very professional and walked us through the entire process."
Lead Testing and Removal questions, answered by experts
Professional testing for lead paint costs about $300, ranging from about $250 to $700, depending on the square footage, accessibility, and location. However, testing for lead paint with a DIY home-testing kit costs about $25, but doesn’t guarantee accurate results. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends using a lead test kit that complies with the Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule, which has strict criteria for ensuring a more accurate reading.
Common home surfaces to test for lead include:
Walls
Windows
Doors
Molding and trim
Railings
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
If lead is detected in a property, steps should include arranging for professional removal or containment, notifying all occupants, and implementing interim safety measures to reduce exposure.
While the EPA provides guidelines for homeowners to perform DIY lead paint removal, it is a risky process and generally not recommended due to serious health risks and strict regulatory requirements. The process requires precise safety precautions, such as wearing a respirator and protective eyeglasses, creating sealed exits, and using a HEPA vacuum for cleanup. To ensure the job is done safely, effectively, and in compliance with regulations, it is highly recommended to hire a professional lead abatement company. Certified professionals have the necessary training, experience, and specialized equipment (like chemical strippers and HEPA vacuums) to handle and dispose of hazardous materials safely.
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.
The Oak Grove, VA 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.
Learn how to hire a qualified lead testing professional for your home. Find certified inspectors, understand costs, and protect your family from lead hazards.
