Lead Hazards: Policy Issue
Overview
Lead is an element that is toxic to humans. In the past, it was used in paints and other materials. This makes lead abatement a concern, especially in housing built prior to 1978, the year that lead-based paint was banned in residential properties.
The National Apartment Association (NAA) is firmly committed to promoting safe apartments across our nation. One way we do so is through NAAEI’s credentialing programs. For example, our Certificate for Apartment Maintenance Technicians (CAMT) includes education on lead hazards.
Federal and state regulatory standards over the past 30 years have greatly reduced or eliminated lead from a variety of sources resulting in a vast decline in blood lead levels nationally. Despite these significant advancements in public health, property owners still face the prospect of even stricter lead disclosure and remediation requirements.
Industry Position
NAA members are committed to providing healthy homes for the more than 40 million residents of apartment communities. As policymakers work to protect the most vulnerable populations from potential lead exposure, they should not place the onus solely on apartment owners and operators to solve the problem with testing and remediation requirements. Instead, policymakers should build upon the success of grant programs and public-private partnerships, which are proven methods for lead abatement.
As an Owner or Operator, How Does this Affect My Business?
Federal regulations require owner-operators to disclose the presence of lead-based paint and subsequent lead hazards to residents in addition to following repair, renovation and painting guidelines. When renovating housing built prior to 1978, contractors must be lead-safe certified by the Environmental Protection Agency. Additionally, the majority of states have additional remediation requirements and it is important that owner-operators understand both the federal requirements and those of the states and localities in which they operate to avoid costly penalties and fines.
Contact Information
To learn more about this issue, please contact NAA's Public Policy team.
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