What Is Local Law 31?
Local Law 31 requires owners of residential buildings built before 1960 to test every dwelling unit for lead-based paint. Testing must be performed by an EPA-certified inspector or risk assessor who is independent of the property owner and any lead paint abatement firm.
The compliance deadline was August 9, 2025, or within one year of a child under age 6 moving into a unit, whichever comes first.
Who Must Comply
Local Law 31 applies to owners of residential dwellings in buildings constructed before 1960. The requirement also extends to owners of rental dwellings in buildings built between 1960 and 1978, even if the owner already knows lead-based paint conditions exist.
As of February 2021, the law covers tenant-occupied one and two-unit buildings, expanding beyond the three-or-more-unit threshold that previously applied under Local Law 1 of 2004.
Current Lead Standards Under NYC Law
Local Law 66 of 2019 updated the definitions and measurement thresholds that govern lead testing in New York City:
Lead-based paint is now defined as paint with a lead content of 0.5 mg/cm². Testing must use an XRF instrument with an approved Performance Characteristic Sheet. Lead dust standards are 5 mcg/ft² for floors, 40 mcg/ft² for windowsills, and 100 mcg/ft² for window wells.
What Landlords Must Do When Lead Is Found
If lead-based paint is identified in a unit, the landlord must remediate the hazard by removing the paint or applying an encapsulating coating. Tenants must receive written notice of the lead-based paint presence and the associated health risks. Any work that may disturb lead-based paint requires lead-safe work practices to prevent the spread of lead dust.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Fines for failing to comply with Local Law 31 are $2,000 per violation per day, up from the previous $500 per day. HPD may also pursue additional legal action against non-compliant property owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which buildings does Local Law 31 cover? Residential buildings constructed before 1960 are the primary target. Buildings built between 1960 and 1978 are also covered if the owner rents units, regardless of whether lead-based paint is already known to be present.
Who can perform the lead inspection? Testing must be done by an EPA-certified inspector or risk assessor. That person must be independent of the property owner and any firm that performs lead abatement work on the property.
What equipment is required for testing? An XRF instrument with an approved Performance Characteristic Sheet. The instrument measures lead levels on surfaces, and testing is required when readings reach 0.5 mg/cm² or higher.
What is the deadline for compliance? August 9, 2025, or within one year of a child under age 6 moving into a dwelling unit, whichever is sooner.
What happens if lead is found? The landlord must remediate the hazard, notify tenants in writing, and follow lead-safe work practices for any subsequent work that disturbs painted surfaces.
Schedule a Lead Inspection
RTK inspectors are EPA-certified, carry the required XRF equipment, and have extensive experience helping NYC building owners resolve HPD violations. Fast scheduling, comprehensive reports, and expedited lab results.
Call 800.392.6468 or schedule online.
