Free Lead Testing Available for Some Orange County Homeowners

A few years ago, we had all new windows installed in our home. Due to the age of our home, built in 1954, testing for lead was part of the process. Lead was found in the paint around the windows and, as a result, a special removal procedure was put in place with an additional cost for each window. It was well worth it, as our home is now safe, but I have to admit, I wish the program that is available to Orange County homeowners had been available to us then.

According to the Times Herald-Record, if you live in, or own, homes in Orange County built before 1978, you may be eligible to have them tested for lead paint, through a lead-poisoning prevention program called Lead Safe Orange. If you qualify and if lead paint is found, it will be re-mediated at no cost. Funding for this project comes from a grant from HUD.

The Times Herald-Record states that inspectors would come to the home and check for lead. Any problem spots found would then be fixed whether that means stripping the paint and repainting, or replacing portions of the home. If need be, the family would stay at a local motel during the work, which is also covered by the grant.

If you would like to find out more, please call Lead Safe Orange at 845-615-3811.