Lead-Based Paint Safety Guide

Why lead safety matters

If your building was built before 1979, there's a high chance it contains lead-based paint. When lead paint is disturbed—such as during repairs, renovations, or repainting—it can release harmful dust. Lead dust poses serious health risks, especially to children, and can spread if not handled carefully. To protect residents and the surrounding community, San Francisco requires property owners of older buildings to follow lead-safe practices.

How to know if your building has lead paint

If your building was built before 1979, the paint is presumed to contain lead unless proven otherwise by a certified inspector. Before doing any repairs or renovations, it's best to check for lead to ensure everyone's safety. 

Here's what you can do:

• Use a Lead Test Kit
  You can buy a lead test kit at most hardware stores. These kits help check for lead on surfaces. However, for greater accuracy, consider hiring a professional.
• Hire a Certified Lead Specialist
  A lead inspector can thoroughly test your building for lead paint and identify where it might be present, helping you plan for safe renovations.

What you need to do as a property owner

If your building has lead-based paint, follow these steps to keep everyone safe:

Before Work Begins

• Hire a Certified Lead Specialist
  For any renovations or repairs, hire a certified lead specialist who can follow lead-safe practices. This is essential to prevent the spread of lead dust and protect everyone nearby.
• Notify Neighbors
  Inform neighbors of any upcoming lead-related work at least three business days before it starts. This gives them time to take any necessary precautions.
• Post a “Lead Work in Progress” Sign
  Display a visible 32x24-inch “Lead Work in Progress” sign outside in the front of your home where it's easy to see. You can download and print this sign or pick one up from Housing Inspection Services on the 4th Floor at 49 South Van Ness Avenue.

During the Work

• Limit Access to the Work Area
  Only workers should enter areas where lead paint is being disturbed.
• Contain Dust and Debris
  Use plastic sheeting and other barriers to ensure that the dust and debris are contained.
• Avoid Hazardous Practices
  Never:
  • Dry-sand or scrape lead paint without containment.
  • Use open flames to remove lead paint.
  • Let lead dust or debris spread beyond the work area.

After Work is Complete

• Clean Up Thoroughly
  After the lead paint has been covered, make sure the area is cleaned to remove any remaining dust or debris from all surfaces, including floors and tabletops.

If requirements aren't met

Following lead-safe guidelines is important to keep everyone safe and healthy. If these requirements aren’t met, the City may need to take action to ensure they are followed.  

You may receive a Notice of Violation, which could result in fines or a temporary stop to work until the issues are resolved.

If you receive a Notice of Violation, contact DBI’s Housing Inspection Services at (628) 652-3700 for assistance. We’re here to answer any questions you may have and help get you back on track.

Need help?

You can contact DBI Housing Inspection Services at (628) 652-3700.