CDPH enforces Chicago's lead-hazard rules under MCC 7-4 in tandem with the Illinois Lead Poisoning Prevention Act 410 ILCS 45. Buildings constructed before 1978 with children under six face mandatory inspection and abatement when blood-lead levels are elevated.
Illinois 410 ILCS 45 requires lead-screening for children under six and triggers state and local agency response when blood-lead levels reach 3.5 micrograms per deciliter. CDPH operates the Chicago Lead Poisoning Prevention Program under MCC 7-4-040, conducting environmental investigations within 30 days of an elevated screening. Investigators sample paint, dust, soil, and water; landlords must abate any identified hazard within 90 days using IDPH-licensed lead abatement contractors. Federal HUD Lead Safe Housing Rule and EPA RRP requirements layer on for federally assisted housing. Pre-1978 rental properties are not automatically inspected, but the Just Housing Lead Disclosure Ordinance MCC 5-12-100 requires landlords to disclose known lead hazards to tenants before lease signing.
Failure to abate identified lead hazards within 90 days violates MCC 7-4-040 and 410 ILCS 45, carrying fines of $1,000 to $10,000 per day, vacate orders, criminal misdemeanor charges, and tenant civil damages.
Chicago, IL
Chicago does not run a systematic rental inspection program like Los Angeles SCEP. Inspections are complaint-driven under MCC 13-12 and the Residential Landl...
Chicago, IL
Chicago Municipal Code Chapter 7-4 regulates lead paint hazards with authority to inspect any residential building, child care facility, or school frequented...
Chicago, IL
The Chicago RLTO (Section 5-12-070) and the Chicago Heat Ordinance establish strict habitability standards. Landlords must maintain 68 degrees F from 8:30 AM...
See how Chicago's lead-hazard inspections rules stack up against other locations.
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