Houston, TX Building Safety: Lead Paint (2026)
Key Facts
- Disclosure
- Required for pre-1978 homes
- Renovation Rule
- EPA RRP (40 CFR 745)
- Asbestos Survey
- Required before demolition
- Complaints
- Call 311
Summary
Houston follows federal EPA lead-based paint disclosure rules for pre-1978 housing and requires asbestos surveys before demolition or renovation. The Houston Health Department handles airborne lead paint complaints via 311.
c. Lead Based Paint For program homes that will receive rehabilitation, lead based paint attesting will occur under for all homes constructed prior to 1978.
The City reserves the right to require the contractor to provide necessary inspections and clearances from a certified Lead Based Paint (LBP) assessor for lead hazard remediation. Also, the City may require work to be performed by another contractor through its Lead Hazard Reduction Program. An LBP assessor will perform an inspection, risk assessment protocol, and provide clearance.
d. Lead Based Paint Remediation (if require
Full Breakdown
Houston enforces federal lead-based paint regulations under EPA's RRP Rule (40 CFR 745) and HUD's Lead Safe Housing Rule (24 CFR Part 35). Landlords and sellers of pre-1978 housing must provide the EPA pamphlet 'Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home' and disclose known lead hazards. Renovation contractors disturbing more than 6 square feet of lead paint in pre-1978 homes must be EPA-certified. For city-funded housing rehabilitation, Houston's Minimum Construction Standards (v5.5, 2024) require lead-based paint testing for all pre-1978 units and abatement per HUD guidelines. Asbestos surveys are required on all buildings regardless of construction year before demolition. The Texas Department of State Health Services regulates asbestos abatement contractors. Complaints about airborne lead paint or asbestos from construction/demolition are reported to 311.
Violations & Fines
Federal EPA penalties up to $37,500+ per day for RRP violations. Failure to disclose lead hazards can result in treble damages in private lawsuits. Report suspected violations to Houston Health Department at 311.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Houston landlords have to test for lead paint?
Is asbestos testing required before renovating in Houston?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Houston
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Houston to another location·View the Texas building safety overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.