How do I prepare for the Lead Inspection?

(These recommendations do not replace those from Maryland Department of the Environment)

• Look for any chipping, flaking or peeling paint on all interior and exterior surfaces. (Walls, ceiling, windows, trim, doors etc)
• All paint issues must be completely resolved prior to your Visual Inspection.
• Clean surfaces.  use of HEPA Vacuum is recommended for all floors.
• use a soapy detergent and water for cleaning window sills, window wells and floors (in room that don’t have windows) to remove dust.  (Use gloves for extra protection along with a mask appropriate to your location).
• Change water and towel frequently to avoid cross-contamination.

The Visual Inspection:

• An interior and exterior walk-thru looking for chipping, peeling or flaking paint.
• Properties with replacement windows require ONE sample per room from a window sill, window well or floor.
• Properties with non-replacement windows *(windows with painted surfaces) require TWO samples per room.
• One from a window sill or window well and a second one from either the floor or another window sill or well.

After the Inspection:

• The samples are sent to an accredited lab for testing.
• The federal government and the State of Maryland have set guidelines for lead contents in paint.
• You must provide the tracking number to our inspector before we can schedule the inspection.
• Tracking numbers can be obtained from the left top side of your previous certificate or you can get your first one by registering your property with MDE.
• Call MDE at 410-537-4199 to receive your tracking number.  Send by email to leadsafetysolutions@gmail.com or by text to 240-461-4377.

Lab Results are received by our inspectors usually with 5 business days from the Laboratory.

• Digital results are sent to you usually within 24 hours of receipt from lab.
• Digital results include:   Diagram, Lab Report,  Digital Form 330 (Certificate) and Form A Disclaimer.
• You are required to send a copy to y0ur tenant and update MDE’s website with your new certificate number found in the upper right hand side of the Digital Certificate.

You received a Lead Certificate.  What do you do next?

It differs by City or County.  In general, you will be completing a county / City rental license application and informing that office of your new updated certificate number.

In Baltimore City, you will updating the the Department of Housing and Community Development of your certificate number and then scheduling a Baltimore City home inspection form one of their listed accredited inspectors.  Then when you pass your home inspection, you will provide DHCD with the actual inspector passing file along with the lead certificate number.

Many counties including Montgomery County send you a multi page rental license application.  Provide your lead certificate number in the application and send with any fees required.

If you have any questions, please contact your Housing Department or similar County office for more information.

Tenants are required by law to receive a copy of the digital certificate.

Landlords may also be required to provide a copy of 2 pamphlets that educate and inform the tenant:

Register to receive 2 pamphlets by email:  Protect your Family and Tenant’s Right to Know about Lead