Lead Remediation and Abatement Program

Lead-based paint in buildings poses serious health risks, particularly for children who may ingest paint chips or inhale lead-contaminated dust.

With the New Jersey Lead Remediation and Abatement Program (LRAP), funded by a $180 million federal grant, support is available for removing lead-based hazards from low- to moderate-income households.

Here’s what building owners need to know to comply with the new Lead-Based Paint Inspection Law.

New Lead-Based Paint Inspection Law

As of August 2024, New Jersey’s new Lead-Based Paint Inspection Law mandates that all rental units must be lead-safe before being rented out. This law applies to 1-4 unit residential properties built before 1978.

Key Points of the Law:

Lead-Safe Certification: All rental units must pass a lead inspection to ensure they are lead-safe before new tenants can move in.
Eligibility for LRAP: Properties built before 1978 with lead-based paint hazards identified during inspection are eligible for the State’s Lead Remediation and Abatement Program (LRAP).

Eligibility for LRAP

Households with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income, residing in one to four-family residential properties constructed before 1978, qualify for the LRAP.

Health Risks of Lead-Based Paint:

Irreversible brain damage
Kidney and liver damage
Infertility
Nervous system damage
Seizures

How LRAP Works

If lead-based paint is detected during inspection, property owners can benefit from:

State-Funded Lead Inspection: Assess the presence of lead hazards.
Lead Abatement or Remediation: If hazards are identified, abatement or remediation may be performed based on eligibility.

Department of Consumer Affairs LRAP Program:

The Department of Consumer Affairs offers a comprehensive Lead Remediation and Abatement Program (LRAP) to assist property owners in mitigating lead-based hazards.

A $180 million federal grant funds the LRAP and aims to support the removal of lead-based hazards from low – to moderate-income households. Visit the program’s website for more information about eligibility criteria and the application process.

Landlords and Property Managers

Landlords and property managers can apply on behalf of tenants who meet the LRAP household income eligibility. It’s crucial to ensure that the building was constructed before 1978 to avoid application rejection.

Avoid Application Rejection:
- Confirm the construction date by checking the original deed or title.
- Properties built after December 31, 1977, do not qualify for LRAP funding.

Steps to Take

Verify Construction Date: Ensure your property was built before 1978.
Conduct Lead Inspection: Schedule a state-funded lead inspection.
Apply for LRAP: If lead is found, apply for abatement or remediation through LRAP.

By adhering to the new Lead-Based Paint Inspection Law and participating in the LRAP, building owners can ensure their properties are safe and compliant, protecting tenants from the dangers of lead-based paint.

For more details and to apply, visit the LRAP page on the NJ DCA website.

Certification Requirements for Contractors

Lead remediation and abatement contractors must be U.S. EPA-certified Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) firms, and also obtain DCA certification for abatement.

Contractor LRAP Process:

Obtain EPA RRP and NJDCA Lead Abatement certifications.
Pursue training & certification if not already certified.
Email LRAPContractors@dca.nj.gov to start the certification process.
Provide service areas.
Await contact from a local grantee.

Important Reminder

Non-profit and for-profit entities, including municipalities and building management companies, can seek DCA grants for lead remediation and abatement.

Grantee LRAP Process:

Obtain EPA RRP certification.
Email LRAPTraining@dca.nj.gov to start the process.
Review the LRAP documentation.
Apply through the SAGE system.
Await eligibility confirmation from NJ DCA.