Lead Paint: Chicago vs Des Plaines
How do lead paint rules compare between Chicago, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Chicago and Des Plaines have similar restriction levels.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago Municipal Code Chapter 7-4 regulates lead paint hazards with authority to inspect any residential building, child care facility, or school frequented by children age 6 and under. City inspectors may enter properties to test for lead hazards, and a warrant can be obtained if entry is denied. Landlords must disclose known lead hazards to tenants, and buildings found to have lead hazards must be remediated before new leases can be signed. The Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance adds additional disclosure requirements.
View full Chicago rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Pre-1978 housing renovation in Des Plaines must comply with the EPA Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule and Illinois Lead Poisoning Prevention Act. Disturbing painted surfaces requires certified contractors and lead-safe work practices.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | Chicago Municipal Code Chapter 7-4 | - |
| Inspection Authority | Any building frequented by children under 6 | - |
| Disclosure Required | Federal EPA lead pamphlet for pre-1978 housing | - |
| New Leases | Certificate of compliance required after lead order | - |
| Federal Penalty | Up to $19,507 per disclosure violation | - |
| Federal Rule | - | EPA RRP (40 CFR 745) |
| State Law | - | 410 ILCS 45 |
| Disturbance Trigger | - | 6 sq ft interior / 20 ext |
| Certified Renovator | - | Required pre-1978 |
| Disclosure | - | Required at sale/lease |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
Does my Chicago landlord have to test for lead paint?
Federal and Illinois law require disclosure of known lead hazards but do not require proactive testing. However, Chicago authorizes city inspectors to test any residential building under Chapter 7-4, and IDPH can order testing when a child has elevated blood lead levels.
What happens if lead paint is found in my Chicago apartment?
The landlord must remediate the hazard, post notice to all tenants, and obtain a certificate of compliance before entering any new leases on affected units. The city can obtain an inspection warrant if the landlord refuses access.
Des Plaines FAQ
Does my Des Plaines renovation need a lead-certified contractor?
If the home was built before 1978 and the work disturbs more than 6 sq ft interior or 20 sq ft exterior of painted surface, yes. Owners doing their own work in their own home are generally exempt.
Where do I report a child with elevated blood lead?
Reports go to the Illinois Department of Public Health. Cook County DPH coordinates local follow-up including possible inspection.
Do I need to disclose lead paint when selling?
Yes, federal Title X requires lead-paint disclosure for housing built before 1978 in all sales and most leases.
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