Where is lead found?

Lead is primarily found in the exterior and interior paint of the building. Lead was added to paint for three main reasons: Color Enhancement, Increased Durability & as a Drying Agent. Lead-based paint is typically found in window systems, bathrooms, door jambs, soffits, chair rails and doors.

Lead in Water - Paint is not the only place you will find lead. Lead can also be found in drinking water, primarily through leaded solder, brass fittings/fixtures and primary service lines. If the building was constructed before 1978 and the original water piping is still present, it is recommended to have your water supply tested for concentrations of lead.

Lead in Soil - The soil surrounding a building can also contain lead. Leaded gasoline (deposited prior to phase-down in use), factory emissions, weathering and chipping of lead-based paint on the exterior of the building, and dust/dirt carried over from a construction site can all contribute to lead concentrations in the soil. This can become a health issue if there are children playing around the building, or you plan on performing landscaping.