The threat of lead paint is no longer at the forefront these days. Since learning about the dangers of lead paint, we have developed practices specifically designed to avoid exposure to that hazardous substance. However, the threat posed by lead paint is far from eliminated. Modern myths about lead paint and relevant inspections have increased the exposure risk for many of us. Get to know those inspection myths by continuing below.
 

1. Lead Inspections Are Unnecessary if You Are Renovating Your Home

One of the most persistent myths about lead testing suggests that it’s unnecessary if you are renovating your property. Because the renovation likely involves repainting the home, the workers should already neutralize the threat posed by lead paint. The problem with that line of thinking is assuming the workers are equipped to handle the lead paint.

The EPA requires homeowners to hire lead-safe certified contractors if they are renovating, repairing, or painting properties with lead-based paint built before 1978. Contractors without that lead-safe certification may not know how to handle lead paint properly. You should get testing done to confirm if your home has lead paint and decide how to proceed from there.

2. Lead Inspections Aren’t Required if You Haven’t Experienced Any Symptoms

When you initially purchased your old home a few years back, you may have suspected that it was coated in some lead paint. Now that you’ve lived there for a while with no issues, you might assume that it’s safe for your family. Making that assumption could have dire consequences. You still need to get testing done because lead poisoning doesn’t always produce symptoms.

According to the National Library of Medicine, around 3.6 million American households with at least one child are also plagued by significant lead paint hazards. Even if you are asymptomatic, there’s no guarantee that your child will be safe. That’s especially troubling because children can suffer more from lead poisoning. Request testing as soon as possible to ensure your child is living in a safe home.

3. Lead Inspections Aren’t Needed for Repainted Old Homes

You also cannot assume that lead inspections are no longer needed just because your older home was repainted already. In our experience, there’s still a chance that the lead paint has been exposed due to damage to the uppermost layers. Schedule testing with us right away to check if lead paint is inside your property.

The need for lead testing still exists today. You cannot forego testing and risk exposing your loved ones to the dangers presented by that substance. Reach out to ASAP Environmental Inc, and we’ll get your testing done immediately!