Newark, NJ Building Safety: Lead Paint (2026)

8) took effect May 21, 2025 under Ordinance 6PSF-C and requires every owner, landlord or agent of a residential rental single-family, two-family or multiple dwelling to obtain a lead-based paint inspection by the earlier of two years after the state Lead Hazard Control Assistance Act's July 22, 2022 effective date or the first tenant turnover. After that initial inspection, follow-up inspections are due every three years or at each tenant turnover, whichever comes first, unless the owner already holds a current lead-safe certification filed with the city.

C. 3(b)(1). Exempt units include those built during or after 1978, units with a valid lead-free certificate on file, seasonal single- or two-family rentals under six months with no consecutive renewals, and multiple dwellings registered with DCA for at least ten years with no outstanding paint violations. If hazards turn up, the lead-safe certificate is voided and a new inspection follows completed remediation. Fees run $20 per inspection to the state Lead Hazard Control Assistance Fund, plus a $25 city filing fee for each lead-safe or lead-free certification.

Denying the Municipal Inspector access on a scheduled date risks a fine up to $300 per unit, and fees are nonrefundable without 48 hours' cancellation notice. The Municipal Inspector enforces the chapter: owners get 30 days to cure a violation by inspecting or starting remediation before facing a penalty of up to $1,000 per week until the work is done and the city is notified.