Lead-Based Paint Sampling
Pre-1978 lead-based paint sampling for commercial and multifamily.
When a pre-1978 building is in your acquisition or renovation pipeline, sampling for lead-based paint is part of due diligence. SAGE is EPA-certified for lead-based paint inspection and sampling.
Overview
What it is.
Lead-based paint sampling is the inspection and sampling of painted surfaces in pre-1978 structures to identify whether lead-based paint is present, where it is located, and at what concentration. Sampling. Lab analysis. Documented findings.
The work follows EPA Lead-Based Paint Renovator and HUD inspection protocols.
At a glance
Standards, method, turnaround, coverage.
- Building age trigger
- pre-1978
- Primary on-site method
- XRF
- Bundled turnaround
- ~10 days
- States of coverage
- 4
Standards: EPA Lead-Based Paint Renovator Rule, HUD inspection protocols, AAS/ICP lab analysis. Coverage: Idaho, Northern Utah, Eastern Oregon, Western Montana.
Sampling methods
Two methods. One picked first, the other when the first cannot answer.
Most surveys are completed on-site with XRF. Bulk chip sampling steps in when XRF is inconclusive or laboratory confirmation is required.
Primary method
XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence)
- Non-destructive on-site readings
- Fast, building-wide coverage
- Inspection-level data
- Component and location mapped
Confirmatory method
Bulk paint chip sampling
- Used when XRF is inconclusive
- AAS or ICP laboratory analysis
- Accredited lab chain-of-custody
- Documented confirmation results
Deliverables
What you receive.
Five artifacts in one inspection packet, each tied back to EPA Lead-Based Paint Renovator and HUD inspection protocol.
Pre-1978 inspection
Walkthrough covering accessible painted surfaces across all relevant building components.
XRF readings
Representative paint-surface readings, mapped to component and location for traceability.
Bulk chip lab samples
Paint chip samples submitted to an accredited laboratory when XRF requires confirmation.
Inspection report
Results tabulated against EPA action levels, mapped, and supported by photographs.
Next-step recommendations
RRP-compliant renovation planning, abatement scoping, or O&M planning per the findings.
When you need it
Four scenarios where lead-based paint sampling earns its place in the diligence packet.
Pre-1978 multifamily acquisitions
HUD-related transactions and multifamily acquisitions where lead disclosure rules apply.
Pre-1978 commercial renovation
Any commercial renovation of a pre-1978 building disturbing painted surfaces, to keep RRP compliant.
Layered with a Phase I
Add-on to a Phase I when the building age and condition warrant it.
Owner due diligence
Owners documenting current lead status before lease, sale, or major capex planning.
Same timeline as your Phase I
One closing-ready package, not stacked deliverables.
When SAGE is doing the Phase I, lead-based paint sampling typically lands on the same delivery cadence. Pair with our radon screening service when both are warranted, especially on multifamily and pre-1978 institutional buildings.
Pre-1978 building in your pipeline?
Send the address and the use case. We’ll come back with sampling scope and timeline inside one business day.