FAQS
ARE YOU EPA CERTIFIED?
DLS Lead Dust Testing is EPA certified for purposes of Section 402 of TSCA to conduct lead dust sample testing in target housing and child-occupied facilities. Our dust sampling technicians are also EPA certified to conduct lead dust sample testing.
WHAT’S THE LEAD DUST INSPECTION PROCESS?
BEFORE THE APPOINTMENT
1. Repair all visible cracked, peeling, flaking, chalked, or deteriorated paint.
2. The technician will take dust samples from the window sills and floors. There should be no debris in those areas and they should be thoroughly cleaned before testing.
DURING THE APPOINTMENT
During the appointment, the lead dust safety inspection will comprise of two components - the visual inspection and sample dust testing. The property must pass both components to obtain a lead-safe certificate. Additionally, the technician cannot perform the sample dust testing unless the unit passes visual inspection.
1. A visual inspection to determine the interior of the property is free of plainly visible lead hazards (no cracked, peeling, flaking, chalked, or deteriorated paint) and
2. Lead dust sample testing for all bedrooms and at least one room or area a child would likely to play (determined by the technician) must pass the visual inspection before the lead dust sample testing can be performed.
3. In the event the property fails the visual inspection and/or dust sample testing, retesting can be obtained through DLS Lead Dust Testing at an additional and reduced cost.
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WHEN CAN I EXPECT THE RESULTS?
The typical turnaround time is within 4-6 business days. The results can be expedited for an additional cost.
WHAT TYPE OF LEAD INSPECTION IS NEEDED FOR A PHILADELPHIA RENTAL PROPERTY/LICENSE?
Starting on October 1, 2020, all Philadelphia residential rental properties will be required to obtain lead-free or lead-safe certification in order to A) execute a new or renewed lease or B) receive new or renewed rental licenses. The remaining zip codes will be phased in over a two-year period. DLS Lead Dust Testing provides lead-safe certifications only at this time.