FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a lead inspection?

A lead paint inspection is a thorough examination of a property to detect the presence of lead in paint. It involves using specialized tools like XRF analyzers to accurately identify lead levels.

How long does a lead inspection take?

The duration of a lead inspection depends on the size of the property. Generally, it takes a few hours to complete, followed by a few business days for lab analysis and reporting.

Why is lead dangerous?

Lead is toxic and can cause severe health issues, especially in children, such as developmental delays, learning difficulties, and other serious health problems.


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What are your hours?

7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Tuesday - Sunday)

Are you licensed, certified, or accredited?

We are certified in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

When can I expect the results?

Normal turnaround time is within 3-7 business days. The results can be expedited for an additional cost.

What are the expedited costs?

TypeDayPriceAdditional Info
Lead Dust Inspection / Clearance / Full Risk Same Day $35 per sample $100 lab travel charge
Next Day $20 per sample
Two Days $15 per sample  
Three Days $10 per sample  
Lead Free / Lead Paint inspection Same Day $300
Next Day $200
Two Days $100  

What’s a Lead Dust / Clearance / Full Risk Reduction inspection?

This inspection measures the amount of lead in household dust. At least one dust wipe sample is taken from each room. The sample will be taken from the floor and/or window sill. The inspection is typically done for rental properties. Since this inspection doesn't test for lead in paint, the inspector assumes all paint is lead based paint. As a result, all interior and exterior paint must be intact (not chipping, peeling, or flaking) before the inspection. Chipping, peeling, or flaking paint is considered a lead paint hazard.

What's a Lead Free / Lead Paint inspection?

This inspection measures the amount of lead in paint. An XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) analyzer is used to test if lead is present on painted surfaces. Every room in the home is tested. Exterior painted surfaces are tested too. This inspection is safe on paint.

What's a Visual Assessment/Onsite Consultation?

A visual inspection includes a walk through of the property to ensure all paint is intact and there is no flaking, chipping, cracking, or peeling paint. The inspector will check that the work areas were sufficiently cleaned, and no debris remains on the floor. Photos are taken to document repairs or demonstrate where flaking, chipping, cracking, or peeling paint were found. A visual report is created and emailed.

What’s a soil sampling inspection?

What’s a soil sampling inspection? During a soil inspection, soil is collected from bare soil not covered by grass, mulch, or concrete. The soil is collected around the dripline/foundation area and play area. It's required if you're looking to receive a "lead-free" certificate for the exterior of your property.

What’s the inspection process?

For Lead Dust / Clearance / Full Risk Reduction Inspections
The repairs need to be completed prior to the lead inspector coming. The lead inspector will do a visual assessment to verify there is no chipping, flaking, peeling, or cracking paint. Once that has been verified, dust samples are taken from floors, windowsills, or window wells. The dust samples are sent to a lab. Once the results are received, the inspector will send the completed report to the client via email. If any of the dust samples fail, the client will need to re-clean the failed areas and have the area re-tested. Dust samples can only be taken if the repairs have been completed. If they have not been completed prior to the lead inspection, there is an additional cost.


For Lead Paint / Lead Free Inspections
An X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analyzer is used to test for lead on all painted surfaces in all rooms. Paint does not have to be intact or in great condition for this test. A report is sent to document everything that was tested, and the amount of lead found on each tested surface.

Who are the results sent to?

For DC and Virginia Inspections
The results are sent directly to the client.


For Maryland Inspections
The inspection certificate or report is sent to MDE (Maryland Department of Environment) and the client.

What's a Full Risk Reduction inspection?

MDE, Maryland Department of Environment, requires a full risk reduction before a new tenant moves in. The full risk reduction is the same as a dust sampling / lead dust inspection. This inspection uses dust wipes to measure lead dust on horizontal surfaces. The inspector takes dust wipe samples from floors, windowsills, or window wells in every room.
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What's a Modified Risk Reduction inspection?

MDE, Maryland Department of Environment, requires a modified risk reduction if you received a notice of defect or a child or pregnant woman has been identified as having an elevated blood level. The owner of the property has 30 days to make corrections to the property by an abatement supervisor or licensed contractor. The lead inspector will examine the property for the 8 lead hazard reduction treatments. The treatments are:

  • Removal of chipping, peeling, or flaking paint
  • Repair structural defects that cause paint deterioration
  • Repaint, replace, or encapsulate all interior window sills
  • Cap window wells in order to make them smooth and cleanable
  • Fix the top sash in place for older windows
  • Re-hang all doors to prevent rubbing
  • Ensure that kitchens and bathrooms have smooth, water-resistant floors
  • HEPA-Vacuum and detergent wash any area where repairs were made
The inspector will perform a lead dust inspection only if the 8 lead hazard reduction treatments were completed.
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How do I obtain a MDE tracking number?

Contact Maryland Department of the Environment at 410-537-4199.
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What type of lead inspection is needed for a Maryland rental property/license?

For a Maryland rental, you have the option of getting a full risk reduction inspection, lead free inspection, or limited lead free inspection. Certificates can be issued for any of these inspections. If your home was built prior to the 1970s and has not been completely renovated, we recommend getting a full risk reduction inspection.
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Where can I find lead remediation/abatement contractors?

About Us

We are the premier professional lead inspection company offering residential services to our clients throughout the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. We are known to pay exquisite attention to detail while making your satisfaction our number one priority. Please call us today to schedule your appointment with DMV's true professionals!

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