NYC Local Law 1 of 2004 requires owners of pre-1960 multiple dwellings to identify, remediate, and annually inspect lead-based paint hazards where children under 6 live.
Manhattan contains one of the nation largest inventories of pre-1960 multiple dwellings, making lead paint a critical tenant safety issue. NYC Local Law 1 of 2004 (the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Act, NYC Admin Code Title 27 Subchapter 2 Article 14) presumes lead-based paint in any building built before 1960 (and in some cases 1960-1978). Landlords must: annually investigate each dwelling unit where a child under 6 resides, remediate peeling paint and friction surfaces using EPA RRP and NYC-certified lead-safe work practices, provide Annual Notice (DOHMH form) to tenants, and keep records for at least 10 years. Local Law 31 of 2020 added XRF testing requirements by August 2025 for all pre-1960 units where a child under 6 lives. Federal TSCA and EPA RRP rules also apply to renovation work. Violations trigger HPD orders, fines, and potential tort liability.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how New York County's lead paint rules stack up against other locations.
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