What Happens After XRF Testing? Lead Abatement Requirements Explained

The August deadline for XRF testing may have passed, but that’s only the first step. What comes next is just as important: Lead Abatement.

Lead-based paint remains one of the most significant environmental health hazards in New York City buildings. To address this, the City passed Local Laws 31 and 111, both of which require property owners to conduct XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) testing for lead-based paint.

What Happens After XRF Testing?

Lead-Based Paint Abatement:

While XRF testing identifies where lead based paint exist, the next—and equally critical—step is making the apartments Lead safe which may require Lead Abatement. Here’s what you need to know about the requirements and how to stay compliant.

Once XRF testing identifies the presence of lead-based paint in a unit or common area:

1. Property owners are responsible for making the apartment Lead Safe by remediating or abating those hazards.
2. If Lead Abatement is required, it must be performed using EPA- and HUD-approved methods such as removal, replacement, enclosure, or encapsulation.
3. All Lead Abatement work must be conducted by an EPA Certified Lead Abatement firm to ensure safety and compliance.

When Lead Abatement Is Required?

According to Local Law 1 of 2004 and Local Law 123 of 2023, Lead Abatement requirements are at Vacancy Turnover and when there is a Child Occupied Unit.

1. Vacancy Turnover (Local Law 1): Owners must make the apartment Lead Safe whenever an apartment turns over to a new tenant.
2. Child Occupied Units (Local Law 123): If a child under the age of 6 currently resides in a pre-1960 building, Lead Abatement is required by July 2027. If a child under 6 comes to reside in a unit after January 1, 2025, the owner must complete the same abatement work within three years of the child moving in.

New Documentation & Record-Keeping Requirement

Under Local Law 122 of 2023, owners must maintain and submit records to HPD. Proper documentation is just as important as the abatement work itself.

Owners are required to:

1. Maintain inspection and abatement records for at least 10 years.
2. Submit documentation to HPD upon request.
3. Ensure proper documentation of hazards and remediation.

Why This Matters for Property Owners?

Abatement is not just a regulatory obligation—it’s a health and safety responsibility. Lead exposure, particularly in children, can cause lasting issues including developmental delays and neurological damage.

Ensuring hazards are properly abated protects tenants, reduces liability, and prevents costly fines.

Partnering With Experts

Navigating these requirements can feel overwhelming. That’s where our team comes in. At Jerome Environmental Services, we handle the process from start to finish, including:

1. Certified XRF testing
2. Customized abatement plans
3. Professional remediation and safe containment
4. Complete record preparation and HPD compliance support

Don’t wait until HPD asks for your records. Call us today at 718-220-3350 to schedule XRF testing or discuss abatement options with our certified team.