How to Prepare for an HPD Lead Paint Inspection: Step-by-Step
Receiving an HPD inspection notice for lead paint can feel overwhelming, but preparation makes all the difference. Whether triggered by a tenant complaint, a child's elevated blood lead level, or a routine cycle inspection, knowing what to expect helps you respond quickly and avoid costly penalties.
Before the inspector arrives, compile your records: previous XRF test reports, abatement certifications, annual visual inspection logs, tenant notification forms (including the EPA pamphlet), and any turnover compliance documentation. HPD expects organized records going back at least 10 years.
Walk every unit and common area looking for deteriorated paint — peeling, chipping, chalking, or cracking on any surface. Pay special attention to window sills, door frames, baseboards, and radiator covers. These are the most common friction and impact surfaces where lead dust accumulates.
If you find peeling paint in a unit with a child under six, act now. Under NYC law, this is an emergency. Use lead-safe work practices (wet scraping, HEPA vacuuming, proper containment) or hire an EPA-certified abatement contractor. Do not dry scrape or sand — this creates dangerous lead dust.
HPD inspectors check for deteriorated paint on all surfaces, dust levels on floors and window sills, bare soil in play areas, and proper maintenance of painted surfaces. They also verify that tenants received the required annual notice and the EPA "Protect Your Family From Lead" pamphlet.
If HPD issues a violation, you typically have 24 hours for Class C (hazardous) violations and 30 days for Class B. Certification forms must be filed with HPD after remediation is complete. Our team can handle the entire process — from emergency abatement to filing the AF-5 Affidavit of Compliance. Learn more about HPD violation removal.
Proactive inspections cost a fraction of emergency remediation. Schedule an XRF inspection with DeLeadNYC before HPD comes knocking. We serve all five boroughs with transparent pricing and same-day availability. See our lead inspection services.
For complaint-driven inspections, HPD typically gives 24-48 hours notice or arrives unannounced after a 311 complaint. For Local Law 31 audits, you control the schedule. Always allow legal access; refusing entry triggers immediate Class C violations.