New Jersey landlord information

Clear next steps for landlords.

Start with the testing details, then use the municipal lookup tool to find the listed inspection methodology for your property.

Landlord guidance

Lead Law Testing Detail for Landlords

NJ Lead Law explained.

New Jersey’s Lead-Based Paint Inspection Law, P.L. 2021, c.182, requires certain rental properties built before 1978 to undergo periodic lead-based paint inspections to help protect residents from lead hazards. Inspections are generally required every three years or upon tenant turnover, subject to exemptions established by the law. Depending on the municipality, the required inspection method is either a visual inspection or dust wipe sampling, as determined by the State’s methodology designation. Property owners must address identified lead-based paint hazards and obtain the appropriate lead-safe certification when the property meets the applicable requirements. These requirements are designed to identify deteriorated lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust before they can pose a health risk, particularly to young children.

Choose the right inspection method.

The lookup tool below helps identify the methodology listed for a municipality or county. It is a helpful starting point when you are planning your next inspection.

Dust Wipe Inspection.

Lead Inspector will use a lab certified moist cloth to collect a measured sample from both the window sill and the floor, then place in a collection centrifuge and send to an EPA-recognized National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program (NLLAP) laboratory that is specifically recognized for lead-in-dust analysis.

Visual Inspection.

Dust, cracking/peeling deteriorated paint is considered a lead dust hazard. If your municipality only requires a visual inspection, the law is very strict on what must be corrected to obtain your Lead Safe Certificate.

Get practical guidance.

The NJ Lead Law was passed in 2022 and since then many municipalities have been issuing letters advising homeowners to get this testing performed. Final warning letters have been issued and now certain municipalities like Clifton NJ have been issuing fines for non-compliance.

DO NOT DELAY. CALL TODAY.

NJ Lead Testing can help you understand which service fits the property and what to prepare before the visit.

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Municipality and county search

Municipal Lead Hazard Testing Look Up Tool

This tool uses the 2025–26 New Jersey DCA methodology list. Confirm current requirements with your local municipality, as it will have the most accurate information for your property.

Need help understanding the result? Call 973-280-5295.