Pre-1978 Wilmington homes are presumed to contain lead-based paint. Federal RRP rules and Delaware's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Act require certified contractors and disclosure to tenants and buyers.
Most of Wilmington's housing stock predates 1978, so lead-based paint is widespread. Federal EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) rules require certified firms for any disturbance over a small threshold. Delaware's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Act (Title 16 Ch. 26) requires blood-lead screening for young children and gives DPH authority to inspect homes where elevated levels are found. Wilmington Code Ch. 21 (Housing) lets L&I cite landlords for chipping or peeling paint in rental units. Sellers and landlords must provide the federal lead-based paint disclosure pamphlet.
Federal EPA fines for uncertified RRP work; state DPH can order abatement; L&I may declare a unit uninhabitable until lead hazards are repaired.
See how Wilmington's lead paint rules stack up against other locations.
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