I am about to get contractors to rehab a rowhome in Baltimore, MD that is built before 1978. The question is, do I get it tested for lead paint before rehab?
- Rehab involves replacement of all windows and will put up new drywall over existing walls. So any possible lead paint will be replaced or covered.
- However, mild demo work must be done to pull electrical & plumbing. Should I test for lead to inform my contractors of a possible lead problem they should be cautious of during rehab? They could possibly be breathing in lead dust.
- But…if I find lead I must disclose it to buyers. I read at places that its best just “not to know” and disclose that there “may” be lead as required by law.
What do you seasoned pros do reading possible lead paint in rehabs?
Thanks in advance for your input!
-Tony
In my experience, I simply assume that it is lead-based if it is built before 78. Depending on what state you’re in, there is a disclosure form for when you sell it. The only way to know is if you test it. But why go through it, when you can simply give a disclosure when you sell it saying you don’t know for sure. It is the truth afterall. As far as your contractors go, so long as they aren’t griding the paint off the exterior walls or something in that nature, it shouldn’t be too big of a deal. In any demolition or remodel during the tear-out phase, they should always wear masks anyways.
Lee Warren
Just do with the contractor what you would do with prosective tenants/buyers – disclose that the property was built before 1978 and that it MAY contain lead but that you have no specific knowledge…the protection of the contractor’s folks is their problem.
Keith
Appreciate the input. Thanks!
Probably a pretty good assumption too…how many houses do you think have had every bit of lead paint removed?