Many homes on the East Coast, especially in New England, were built long before certain safety standards were in place. If your home was built before 1978, there is a chance it may contain lead-based materials. Lead hazards are not always easy to see, but they can be dangerous, especially for young children and pregnant women. Understanding how to spot these risks and knowing what steps to take can help protect your family’s health and safety.

What Lead Hazards Look Like

Lead hazards in older houses are not always visible right away, but there are several signs you can look for. These problems are more common in homes built before 1978, especially in areas like New England where many historic homes still stand. This section explains the main places where lead can be found and what to look out for in your home.

Peeling or Chipping Lead-Based Paint

One of the most common sources of lead in older homes is lead-based paint. This type of paint was used in many homes before it was banned in 1978. Over time, the paint may begin to crack, peel, or chip, especially on surfaces that are touched or bumped often. You may see peeling paint on window sills, door frames, walls, stairs, or baseboards. Small children are at risk if they touch or put these paint chips in their mouths. Even if the paint looks fine now, it can become dangerous as it gets older.

Lead-Contaminated Dust Inside the Home

When lead-based paint breaks down, it can turn into fine dust that settles on floors, shelves, and other surfaces. This lead-contaminated dust is easy to spread and hard to see. It can come from windows or doors being opened and closed, or from simple wear and tear on painted areas. Regular cleaning with dry cloths or brooms may not be enough and can make the dust spread further. This kind of dust is a major source of lead exposure, especially for babies and toddlers who play on the floor.

Lead Pipes and Plumbing Materials

In some older houses, the plumbing system may include lead pipes or pipes joined with lead solder. When water moves through these materials, lead can slowly enter the water supply. This means there may be lead in drinking water, especially if the water has been sitting in the pipes overnight. The risk is higher if the home has not had any recent plumbing updates. Even low levels of lead in water can be harmful over time.

Lead in Soil Around the House

Soil near older homes may also contain lead. This lead in soil can come from the breakdown of exterior lead-based paint, from old construction debris, or even from leaded gasoline used decades ago. The soil closest to the home’s foundation is usually the most affected. Children who play in the yard or people who grow food in home gardens may be exposed to lead without realizing it. It is important to test the soil if you live in an older neighborhood or plan to garden.

Hidden Lead in Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are areas that often show wear and tear in older homes. Chipping paint and friction from opening and closing can release lead dust into the air. Window sills, tracks, and door frames should be checked carefully, especially if the paint looks old or has started to wear off. These areas are easy to miss but can be serious sources of lead exposure if they are not maintained or sealed properly.

How to Check for Lead in the Home

Checking your home for lead is an important step, especially if it was built before 1978. Lead exposure can come from several sources, including paint, dust, soil, and plumbing. Knowing where to start and who to contact can help you take the right steps to protect your family. Here are the main ways to check for lead hazards in an older home.

Hire a Certified Lead Inspector

The most reliable way to find lead in your home is by hiring a certified lead inspector. These professionals have the training and tools needed to find lead in paint, dust, soil, and water. A certified lead inspector can perform a lead-based paint survey and provide a full report showing where lead is present. This process is especially important for families with young children or if you plan to renovate an older home. Hiring a professional gives you the clearest picture of any risks.

Ask for a Lead Risk Assessment

In some cases, you may need a lead risk assessment in addition to an inspection. A lead risk assessment looks at both the location of lead and how likely it is to cause harm. This includes checking for peeling paint, surface dust, and areas where children spend time. The results will tell you which parts of your home need repair or cleanup. This kind of check is useful if you are unsure how serious the lead problem is.

Use Lead Testing Kits with Caution

Lead testing kits are available in many stores, and they may help you get a quick idea of whether a surface contains lead. These kits are simple to use, but they are not always accurate. Most testing kits only check the outer layer of paint, so they may not detect lead if it is under newer paint. They also do not test water, dust, or soil. If you choose to use a lead testing kit, follow the instructions carefully and treat any positive result as a sign to call a professional.

Check for Lead in Tap Water

Older plumbing systems may include lead service lines or lead solder. This can cause lead in tap water, especially if the pipes have not been replaced. You can ask your local water provider if your home is known to have lead service lines. To be sure, you can also have your water tested by a certified lab. Drinking water should be tested if the home was built before the 1980s and still has its original plumbing.

Request a Lead Hazard Disclosure

If you are renting or buying an older home, federal law requires that the seller or landlord provide a lead hazard disclosure. This document lists any known lead problems in the home. It is important to read this carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear. You should also ask whether any lead inspection or testing has been done before. If there is no recent lead testing on record, you may want to arrange one before moving in.

What to Do Instead

Once lead hazards have been identified in your home, the next step is to focus on safe solutions. Trying to remove or fix lead paint and plumbing without proper knowledge can make things worse. Instead, there are safe, professional, and tested ways to reduce or remove lead risks in your home.

Hire a Certified Lead Abatement Contractor

The safest way to deal with lead hazards is to hire a certified lead abatement contractor. These professionals are trained to follow lead-safe work practices that prevent the spread of lead dust during repairs or removal. A contractor will inspect the affected areas and decide whether removal, replacement, or another method is best. They will also use the right tools and equipment to keep your home safe during and after the process. Avoid hiring general contractors who are not certified for lead work.

Use Encapsulation for Painted Surfaces

In some cases, complete removal of lead paint may not be needed. A method called encapsulation can be used instead. Encapsulation involves covering the lead-based paint with a special coating that seals the surface and prevents dust from escaping. This method is effective for surfaces in good condition with no active peeling or chipping. Encapsulation must be done by someone who understands how to apply the product properly to avoid future problems.

Clean Regularly with a HEPA Vacuum

Until permanent solutions are made, it helps to keep surfaces clean using a HEPA vacuum. Unlike regular vacuums, a HEPA vacuum is made to trap small particles like lead dust without releasing them back into the air. You should vacuum floors, carpets, and windowsills where dust can settle. Wet cleaning methods, such as wiping with a damp cloth, should be used along with vacuuming for better results. These steps are part of effective lead dust cleanup that helps reduce daily exposure.

Use a Water Filter Certified to Remove Lead

If your home has old plumbing, it is a good idea to use a water filter certified to remove lead. These filters can be attached to faucets or used in pitchers, depending on your needs. Be sure the filter meets NSF/ANSI standards for lead reduction. Filters should be changed as recommended to stay effective. Along with using a filter, you can reduce risk by flushing pipes, run cold water for at least one minute before using it for drinking or cooking.

Keep Your Family Safe

If you have young children, especially under the age of six, talk to your doctor about having their blood tested for lead. It is a simple test, and it helps catch any exposure early. Children are more vulnerable to lead because their bodies absorb it more easily, and it can affect their growth, behavior, and learning. Taking this step gives you peace of mind and helps you act quickly if there is a problem.

Living in an older home does not mean your family is in danger, but it does mean you need to stay aware. Regular cleaning, professional testing, and safe removal methods make a big difference. With a few smart choices, you can make your home a safer place to live.