How to Stay Compliant with New York State Lead Laws in 2025

Understanding New York’s Updated Lead Laws

New York State has some of the strictest lead laws in the country, designed to protect residents—especially children—from the dangers of lead exposure. In 2025, new updates to these laws will impact landlords, property owners, and contractors.

Staying compliant isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about ensuring safe living conditions and protecting public health. This guide will walk you through who needs to comply, what’s required, and how to meet regulations without legal trouble.

 

 

Who Needs to Comply with New York’s Lead Laws?

If you own or manage residential properties built before 1978, you are responsible for lead safety compliance. The following groups must follow New York’s lead laws:

  • Landlords and property managers renting out pre-1978 buildings

  • Contractors and renovators working on older properties

  • Home sellers required to disclose known lead hazards

  • Schools and childcare facilities that must meet safety regulations

Ignoring compliance can lead to severe fines, lawsuits, and even criminal penalties, so it’s crucial to understand what’s required.

 

 

Key Lead Law Updates for 2025

1. Stricter Lead Testing Requirements

New York State has expanded lead testing rules, especially for rental properties. Property owners must:

  • Conduct lead risk assessments in buildings with three or more units built before 1978.

  • Provide lead-safe certifications before renting or renewing leases.

  • Notify tenants about lead risks and testing results.

Local governments, including New York City, may have additional requirements. Always check both state and city regulations.

2. New Lead Dust Standards

Lead dust is a major source of exposure, especially for young children. In 2025, New York will adopt lower acceptable lead dust levels, aligning with EPA and CDC recommendations. This means:

  • More properties may fail lead clearance tests after renovations.

  • More frequent cleaning and testing will be required in high-risk areas.

3. Renovation and Repair Compliance

Any renovations or repairs disturbing lead-based paint must follow EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule. Key requirements include:

  • Hiring certified lead-safe contractors for work on older buildings.

  • Using HEPA-filter vacuums and containment barriers to reduce exposure.

  • Providing tenants and homeowners with the Renovate Right pamphlet before starting work.

4. Increased Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with lead laws can result in:

  • Fines up to $10,000 per violation

  • Loss of rental licenses for landlords

  • Potential lawsuits from tenants and government agencies

  • Criminal charges in severe cases

Enforcement agencies are cracking down, so proactive compliance is more important than ever.

 

 

How to Stay Compliant and Avoid Penalties

1. Schedule Lead Inspections Regularly

Hire a certified lead inspector to check your property for lead hazards. New York law requires regular testing for certain rental properties, so don’t wait until there’s a complaint.

2. Train Staff and Contractors on Lead Safety

If you own multiple properties or manage a team, ensure your workers are trained in lead-safe practices. Anyone handling renovations, maintenance, or repairs in older buildings should have EPA certification.

3. Keep Up with Local Requirements

New York City and other localities may have additional regulations, such as:

  • HPD lead-based paint inspections for NYC landlords

  • Lead disclosure rules when selling a property

  • School and daycare testing requirements

Check with your local health department to ensure full compliance.

4. Document Everything

Good recordkeeping can protect you in case of legal disputes. Maintain:

  • Lead testing results

  • Renovation permits and contractor certifications

  • Tenant notifications and lead safety disclosures

If you’re ever audited, having these records readily available can save you from costly fines.

5. Use Lead-Safe Cleaning and Maintenance Practices

  • Wet-clean surfaces to remove lead dust.

  • Fix peeling or chipping paint immediately.

  • Replace old windows that may have lead-contaminated dust buildup.

Simple preventative maintenance reduces lead exposure risks and helps you stay compliant.

 

 

Final Thoughts

New York’s lead laws are getting stricter in 2025, and compliance is no longer optional—it’s essential. Landlords, contractors, and property owners must take proactive steps to ensure their buildings meet updated safety standards.

By staying informed, conducting regular testing, following proper renovation protocols, and maintaining documentation, you can avoid legal trouble while protecting tenants and the community from harmful lead exposure.

Need more guidance on lead compliance? Check out New York State’s Department of Health website for the latest updates.