Lead-safe vs lead-free certification in Philadelphia: which do you need?
Every Philadelphia rental built before March 1978 needs a lead certificate on file with the Health Department to license the unit and to sign or renew a lease. You have two options.
Lead-safe
A visual inspection finds no deteriorated paint, and dust wipe samples come back below hazard levels. Performed by an EPA-certified dust sampling technician or a PA-licensed inspector. Valid for 4 years. Typical cost: $150 to $300 per unit.
Lead-free
A licensed inspector or risk assessor tests painted surfaces and finds no lead-based paint. Never expires. Typical cost: $450 to $550 or more per unit, and many older homes will not qualify unless they were gutted.
Which should you choose?
- Most older rowhomes: lead-safe, renewed every 4 years.
- Full gut rehab with new windows, doors and trim: consider lead-free once and done.
Watch the 4-year clock
Many certificates filed in 2021 and 2022 are expiring now. An expired lead certificate blocks your license renewal and new leases. We track expiration for every property we handle. Lead certification service.