Santa Clara County, CA Building Safety: Lead Paint (2026)

California Health and Safety Code 17920.10 defines any lead paint hazard in residential buildings as a substandard condition that makes the dwelling uninhabitable if it poses an exposure risk, particularly deteriorating paint, chewable surfaces, friction or impact surfaces, or lead-contaminated dust or soil. The Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health investigates complaints, especially in older homes in downtown San Jose, Palo Alto, and Los Gatos built before 1978. Federal EPA RRP rules under 40 CFR Part 745 require lead-safe certified renovators for any work disturbing more than 6 square feet of interior or 20 square feet of exterior painted components in pre-1978 housing or child-occupied facilities, and require pre-renovation lead pamphlets to owners and occupants. California Department of Public Health certifies lead inspectors, assessors, and supervisors under Title 17 CCR Section 35001 and higher, and only certified personnel can perform abatement. Property owners who fail to disclose known lead paint in a sale or lease violate 42 USC 4852d with up to three times actual damages. Tenants can report hazards to the County, which can issue notices to correct and assess administrative penalties, and chronic noncompliance can be referred to the District Attorney for criminal prosecution.