The past few years have brought several changes to New York City’s lead rules. These include the passing of Local Law 70 of 2019 which established a minimum of 200 audits for the HPD to perform each year to check for records of compliance with Local Law 1 of 2004, among others. Most recently, Local Law 31 of 2020 was passed, effecting significant change for NYC’s lead inspections.

If you can’t keep up with all the changes, don’t sweat it—the Jaffa team has got your back! Here’s all you need to know about Local Law 31 and how we can help you remain compliant.

What is Local Law 31 of 2020?

Local Law 31 was signed into law as part of a package of bills designed to strengthen existing lead laws and close loopholes that can potentially endanger children and pregnant women with lead exposure. Local Law 31 of 2020, formerly known as Intro.9191-A, will go into effect on August 9, 2020.

The law adds these requirements to existing lead-inspection regulations:

  • All dwelling units must have XRF inspections performed within five years of the effective law date (August 9, 2020), or within one year of a child under age six moving into the unit or currently residing there.
  • Said inspections must be conducted by a third-party EPA-certified inspector. Inspections must follow a specified protocol.
  • All home-improvement contractors (HIC)s must show evidence that they are EPA-certified and prepared to follow lead-based safety standards.
  • Effective August 9, 2020, All HIC license and renewal applicants must provide a copy of their EPA RRP (Renovation, Repair and Painting) Program Certificate, or a signed affirmation on a DCA-provided form that such EPA certification is not required for the home improvement work the applicant will be performing.

What this means for you

Building owners in NYC have until August 9, 2025 to have their units inspected for lead. However, if a child under the age of six resides in the unit or moves into the unit, the building owner must have an XRF inspection performed within the year.

If this applies to you or you’d like to get the inspection done sooner rather than later, we can help. The Jaffa team is fully equipped to perform XRF inspections on your units. Our inspectors are EPA-certified and follow the protocol set by the HPD. You can count on us for service that is always prompt and professional. Give me a call 718.855.6110  x 120, email nate@jackjaffa.com  or contact any member of our team through our website at jackjaffa.com to set up your inspection today. As always, we look forward to servicing you.

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