EPA Will Now Recognize Lead Paint Test Kits

In recent communications from the EPA it has been decided the the EPA Lead Renovation Repair and Painting rule will now recognize and evaluate lead paint test kits that can determine the presence of regulated levels of lead in painted surfaces.  Currently the EPA recognized two lead based paint test kits the LeadCheck®and the State of Massachusetts.


The LeadCheck® is a reliable method to determine if regulated lead based paint is present on all types of surfaces with some exceptions.  Certified lead based paint inspectors and risk assessors are required to purchase the LeadCheck test kit directly from LeadCheck from an approved distributor.  The kits that are sold in retail stores do not currently include the necessary Test Confirmation Card and are therefore not approved for use by a certified individual.


The State of Massachusetts lead test kit can reliably determine that regulated lead-based paint is not present on all surfaces except ferrous metal.

EPA will continue to update information on recognized spot-test kits as it becomes available. Check out the EPA Web Page for more info...

Environmental scientists have been reluctant to use lead test swabs in the past because the validity of the results were in question.  This information provides some additional opportunities for cheap, quick, on-site lead based paint testing.