Are lead inspections mandatory in pre-1978 housing?

• A. No
• B. Yes
• C. Depends
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (A)

No inspections are required for all pre-1978 housing. Federal rules don’t mandate a lead inspection just because a home was built before 1978. Instead, the emphasis is on disclosure and safe work practices. When a pre-1978 home is sold or rented, the seller or landlord must disclose known lead-based paint and provide relevant information and pamphlets, but an inspection itself isn’t required. If renovations disturb paint, contractors must follow lead-safe work practices under the Renovation, Repair, and Painting rule. A lead hazard evaluation or paint inspection may be done voluntarily or required by specific programs or circumstances (like a child under 6 living in the home), but it isn’t a universal requirement.