Lead Safety in Cleveland
If your rental property was built before 1978, you are required to obtain a lead safe certificate before renting. Here's what you need to know.
Schedule your inspectionThe Health Risk
Lead paint was used in millions of American homes before it was banned in 1978. When it deteriorates, it creates dust and chips that are invisible but toxic.
Children under 6 are most at risk. Lead poisoning can cause permanent brain damage, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, and stunted growth — even at low exposure levels.
The vast majority of Cleveland's housing stock was built before 1978, which means that lead paint is extremely common, and any deteriorating paint in an older home is a potential hazard.
The CDC has indicated there is no safe blood lead level in children. Even small amounts of exposure can have lasting effects. Identification and remediation are the only protection.
1978
Lead paint banned in the U.S. Homes built before this date may contain lead based paint.
~500K
U.S. children ages 1–5 have elevated blood lead levels, according to the CDC
~4x
Cleveland children have elevated blood lead levels at roughly 4 times the national average
Cleveland Law
Cleveland's ordinance requires landlords to obtain a Lead Safe Certificate before renting any property built before 1978. Without one, you're out of compliance, and the city can come after you with fines and tickets.
1
Under Cleveland's ordinance, landlords cannot legally rent a pre-1978 property without a valid Lead Safe Certificate. No certificate means you are out of compliance.
2
The city actively enforces this ordinance. Landlords without a valid certificate can face tickets, fines, and ongoing violations. These costs can add up fast and far exceed the price of an inspection!
We're typically onsite the next day, and have your report submitted to the city within a week. Call us or book online.
