Lead Paint Testing in Onondaga County
Lead paint testing confirms whether lead is present and at what level. Two common methods are XRF testing, where a handheld analyzer reads lead in paint directly on the surface, and dust-wipe sampling, where settled dust is collected and sent to a laboratory to measure lead. Paint-chip samples can also be lab-tested. Together these methods give an objective picture of lead in a home.
Free quote
Tell us about your property and we will connect you with a licensed contractor.
When you submit this form, your information is shared with a licensed lead paint contractor for the purpose of scheduling your free inspection or quote.
What this service is
Lead paint testing confirms whether lead is present and at what level. Two common methods are XRF testing, where a handheld analyzer reads lead in paint directly on the surface, and dust-wipe sampling, where settled dust is collected and sent to a laboratory to measure lead. Paint-chip samples can also be lab-tested. Together these methods give an objective picture of lead in a home.
Testing is often used to confirm an inspection, to check a home after renovation work, or as part of a rental inspection. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets dust-lead standards that laboratories use to evaluate results. Onondaga Lead Services connects you with a contractor who can carry out the right test for your property in Onondaga County.
When a property owner needs this
- You want to confirm whether a surface or a home contains lead.
- You need dust-wipe sampling, which is part of the City of Syracuse rental inspection process.
- You are checking a home after renovation, repair, or abatement work.
- A risk assessment recommended follow-up testing.
What to expect from the matched contractor
- The contractor selects XRF, dust-wipe, or paint-chip testing based on your goal.
- Dust and paint samples are analyzed by a laboratory against EPA standards.
- You receive documented results you can keep for your records.
- The contractor explains what the numbers mean and any recommended next steps.
Testing cost depends on the method and the number of samples. The contractor you are matched with provides a free, no-obligation quote, so you can compare options before deciding.
Related services
Serving communities including
Frequently asked questions
What is dust-wipe sampling?
Dust-wipe sampling collects settled dust from floors, window sills, and other surfaces using a special wipe, which a laboratory analyzes for lead. It is a common way to detect lead dust, which is a major exposure pathway, and it is part of the City of Syracuse rental inspection process.
Is XRF or dust-wipe testing better?
They answer different questions. XRF reads lead in paint on a surface. Dust-wipe sampling measures lead in settled dust, which is what can actually be ingested or inhaled. The contractor you are matched with can recommend the right method, or a combination, for your goal.
Are there standards for lead in dust?
Yes. The EPA sets dust-lead standards that laboratories use when evaluating samples, and these standards are updated over time. The contractor and the lab apply the current standards. You can review the current values on the EPA website.
Can I test for lead paint myself?
Home test kits exist, but professional XRF and laboratory testing are more reliable, and any work that disturbs lead paint in a pre-1978 home should follow lead-safe practices. The EPA discourages do-it-yourself disturbance of lead paint. We can connect you with a qualified contractor instead.
Get a free lead paint testing quote
Tell us about your property. A licensed, EPA-certified contractor can follow up to schedule your free, no-obligation inspection or quote.
When you submit this form, your information is shared with a licensed lead paint contractor for the purpose of scheduling your free inspection or quote.