Lead-Based Paint Testing

Overview of Cleveland’s Lead Safety Law

In 2019, the City of Cleveland passed a law requiring all landlords to obtain a lead-safe certificate every two years to ensure that rental properties meet the criteria to be deemed lead-safe.

Recent Shift in Policy: Risk Assessment Approach

In 2024, the city transitioned to a risk assessment model, replacing the previous clearance examination. This change affects all rental properties and requires landlords to undergo a lead risk assessment.

What This Means for Landlords

For landlords who have not obtained or renewed their lead-safe certificate, a lead risk assessment will now be required. If the assessment reveals any issues, a remediation plan will be necessary. The following steps must be followed:

  • The results of the risk assessment and the remediation plan will be posted on the city’s open data portal.
  • Landlords are required to provide the results and remediation plan to tenants. A signed document verifying this disclosure must be uploaded with your rental registration application.
  • The needed repairs, as identified in the remediation plan, will be entered as a citation to be corrected using lead-safe practices.
  • The city will follow up at various intervals to ensure compliance.
  • Failure to show progress in completing the repairs will result in further enforcement action.
  • Extensions for repairs may be granted with progress or through participation in a grant or loan program to assist with repairs.
My Role as a Licensed Risk Assessor

I am a licensed risk assessor with the state of Ohio, offering the following services:

  • Consultations
  • Quotes
  • Lead Testing to determine if your property is lead-safe
Testing Process

Successful completion of the lead testing will result in the issuance of a 2-year certificate for your property. The testing process includes:

  1. Clearance exam and dust wipe test
  2. Exterior inspection of the property
  3. 13-Swab interior inspection to assess high-risk areas, including:
    • Window wells
    • Window sills
    • Floors near windows
Learn More About Lead-Safe Certificates

For more detailed information about the Lead Safe Certificate requirements and process, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions document provided by the City of Cleveland.