🧪 Lead Testing Services

🧪Lead-based paint is common in older homes — and that's okay to know.

If your home was built before 1978, there's a good chance lead-based paint is present somewhere on the property. That's true of millions of homes across the country, and it doesn't make a home unsafe or unsellable. What matters is knowing where it is, what condition it's in, and whether any planned activity — like renovations — could disturb it.

That's exactly what lead testing is for.

✅ EPA Certified — What That Means for You

Lead-based paint inspections and testing aren't one-size-fits-all — and not everyone offering these services in the area holds the certifications required by federal law. We are EPA-certified Lead Inspector/Risk Assessors, meeting the requirements set by the EPA's Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule.

That matters because results from a non-certified tester may not be legally valid for real estate transactions, renovation planning, or compliance documentation. When you book with us, you know your results mean something.

🏠 Who Should Consider Lead Testing?

Families with young children.

Children under six are most sensitive to lead exposure. Paint in good condition and left undisturbed poses little day-to-day risk — but chipping, peeling paint or dust from worn surfaces (especially around windows and doors) is where exposure typically occurs. Testing gives you a clear picture before you move in.

Anyone planning renovations.

Sanding, scraping, or disturbing painted surfaces in a pre-1978 home can release lead dust. Federal EPA regulations (the Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule) require lead-safe practices when working on these surfaces. Testing before you start helps you and your contractor stay informed and compliant.

Landlords and rental property owners.

Disclosure and assessment requirements apply to pre-1978 rental properties under federal HUD guidelines. Lead testing provides documentation that protects both tenants and owners.

🔬 How We Test

XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) Testing (most common)

Fast, non-destructive, and highly accurate. Our XRF analyzer scans painted surfaces and delivers instant results — no lab wait, no damage to the surface.

Dust Wipe Sampling (optional)

Surface dust samples collected from floors, windowsills, and other contact areas are tested for lead content. Particularly useful after renovations or in homes with deteriorating paint.

📋 What to Expect

Lead testing is straightforward and non-invasive. We test the surfaces you're concerned about, document the results clearly, and give you the information you need to make informed decisions. We're happy to answer questions about what the results mean and what — if anything — comes next.

Note: We provide testing and documentation only. Remediation decisions and any required lead abatement work are outside the scope of our services. We recommend consulting a certified lead abatement contractor for any follow-up work.

📍 Serving Clovis, Portales, and Eastern New Mexico

Starting at $150 per room. Add during scheduling or contact us to discuss your specific needs.

Additional Information

Click here for further 🛠️ Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule & Contractor Guidance

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at Info@InspectClovis.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Does lead-based paint mean the home is dangerous?

Not necessarily. Lead-based paint that is in good condition and left undisturbed is generally considered low risk. The concern arises when paint is chipping, peeling, or gets disturbed through sanding, scraping, or renovation work — which can release lead dust. Testing helps you understand what's there and where, so you can make informed decisions.

My home was built before 1978. Does that mean it definitely has lead paint?

Not automatically, but the probability is significant. The older the home, the more likely lead-based paint was used — particularly on trim, windows, doors, and exterior siding. Testing is the only way to know for sure.

Is lead dust more dangerous than lead paint chips?

Yes — lead dust is actually the more common exposure concern. Dust can be generated by everyday wear on surfaces like windows and doors, and is invisible to the naked eye. Paint chips are more obvious but less likely to be ingested accidentally.

Do I need to do anything if lead is found?

Not necessarily right away. The presence of lead-based paint doesn't automatically require removal. In many cases, encapsulation (sealing the surface) or simply leaving intact painted surfaces alone is acceptable. What matters is the condition of the paint and whether any work is planned that could disturb it. We provide the testing and documentation — a certified abatement contractor can advise on next steps if action is needed.

Is lead testing required to buy or sell a home?

It is not typically required as part of a standard real estate transaction in New Mexico. However, sellers of pre-1978 homes are federally required to disclose known lead-based paint hazards to buyers. Testing gives both parties clear, documented information rather than guesswork.

Why does EPA certification matter?

Federal law requires that lead inspections and risk assessments be performed by EPA-certified professionals under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Results from a non-certified tester may not be legally valid for real estate transactions, rental compliance, or renovation planning. Always ask for credentials before booking any lead testing service.

How long does testing take?

Most single-room or targeted tests take 30–60 minutes. Larger or more comprehensive inspections may take longer depending on the number of surfaces and areas being tested.

Can I add lead testing to my home inspection?

Yes — lead testing can be added as an add-on service when scheduling your home inspection. This is often the most convenient and cost-effective time to have it done.

Professional Inspections. Clear Answers.