Certified Lead-Based Paint Inspection for Pre-1978 Structures
Full Spectrum Environmental provides EPA-certified lead-based paint inspections for residential, commercial, and industrial properties throughout Florida. Our inspectors are formally licensed as Lead-Based Paint Inspectors and Lead Risk Assessors, and we use HUD-approved XRF analyzers and EPA-recognized laboratory methods to identify the presence and exact location of lead-based paint with precision.
What Is a Lead-Based Paint Inspection?
A lead-based paint inspection is a detailed, surface-by-surface investigation that identifies whether lead-based paint is present in a structure. This type of inspection is required for many pre-1978 properties, especially when renovations, permits, or compliance with federal programs are involved.
During the inspection, each painted surface is evaluated to determine the exact location of lead-based paint, even if it is intact, buried under newer paint layers, or not visibly deteriorated. The goal is to map out where lead exists throughout the building so property owners can make informed decisions before disturbing any surfaces.
When to Schedule a Lead Paint Inspection
You may need a certified lead inspection if:
- You’re planning to renovate, sand, scrape, or demolish areas in a pre-1978 building
- You’ve been asked to comply with HUD, Section 8, or city housing requirements
- You’re a contractor or landlord preparing for upgrades in tenant-occupied spaces
- You want to confirm whether any lead paint is present for disclosure or due diligence
What Is a Lead-Based Paint Inspection?
A lead-based paint inspection, which must be performed by an EPA-licensed Lead-Based Paint Inspector or Lead Risk Assessor, begins with a thorough walkthrough and visual review of all painted, coated, or varnished surfaces throughout the property.
The primary testing method is a HUD-approved XRF analyzer, which provides instant, non-destructive readings and is required for HUD-regulated housing. If a surface cannot be evaluated with XRF due to access or substrate limitations, the inspector collects representative paint chip samples for analysis at an NLLAP-accredited laboratory.
Final results determine whether a surface contains lead-based paint, defined as ≥1.0 mg/cm² by XRF or ≥0.5% by weight through laboratory testing.
Schedule a Lead-Based Paint Inspection Today
Protect your property, your occupants, and your investment. Contact us to schedule a certified lead hazard evaluation tailored to your site.
Why Lead Paint Testing Matters
Lead exposure poses serious health risks, especially to young children, pregnant women, and individuals living in older homes. When lead dust or chips are inhaled or ingested, the metal accumulates in the body and has shown to cause neurological damage, developmental delays, learning and behavioral problems, and decreased IQ in children.
In adults, lead exposure can contribute to high blood pressure, kidney damage, reproductive issues, mood disorders, and cognitive decline. Because lead has no safe level of exposure and its effects can be permanent, identifying and controlling lead hazards is essential for protecting long-term health and safety.
A lead paint inspection identifies where lead-based paint is located. A risk assessment determines if it poses a hazard. Many property owners benefit from both services depending on their goals.
For a true EPA- or HUD-compliant Lead-Based Paint Inspection, yes.
XRF is the standard method and the only HUD-approved approach for many regulated properties.
Yes. Full Spectrum Environmental uses HUD-approved XRF analyzers, and our inspectors are EPA-licensed and trained in HUD protocols.
If your home was built before 1978 and you plan to disturb paint in any way, an inspection is highly recommended for safety and regulatory compliance.