- Safer Homes. Healthier Communities.
Upper Darby's New Lead Certification Law
Starting January 1, 2027, rental properties, home sales, and child care facilities in Upper Darby will need lead safety certification. The ordinance targets homes built before 1978, when lead-based paint was common, aiming to reduce lead exposure for children and families.
- WHO Needs Lead Certification
New Lead Law Hits Pre-1978 Properties in Upper Darby
Upper Darby has approved a new ordinance requiring lead safety certification for properties built before 1978, when lead-based paint was still commonly used in residential construction. The measure is aimed at reducing children’s exposure to lead hazards in older housing stock. Beginning January 1, 2027, landlords must obtain a Lead Safe or Lead Free certification when renewing their rental license, properties changing ownership must include lead certification as part of the Use & Occupancy (U&O) or transfer inspection process, and licensed child care providers must be certified when renewing their operating license.
Rental properties
Home sales and transfers
Child care facilities
- Lead Certification Comparison
Understanding Lead-Safe vs.
Lead-Free Certification
Lead-Safe Certification (Valid for 3 Years)
This certification confirms that no hazardous lead dust is present at the time of inspection, ensuring temporary safety. However, regular maintenance, proper upkeep, and periodic re-testing are required to maintain a lead-safe environment, prevent potential exposure risks, and comply with health and safety regulations.
- Inspectors thoroughly examine surfaces for deteriorating paint and collect dust samples for lab analysis.
- If lead is found, proper remediation and multiple re-tests are required to achieve certification.
Lead-Free Certification (Valid for a Lifetime!)
Lead-Free Certification ensures a property is completely free of lead hazards, providing lifetime protection. A licensed risk assessor conducts a thorough inspection using an XRF Analyzer to detect lead. Achieving this certification increases property value, eliminates health risks, and ensures long-term compliance with safety regulations.
- A licensed risk assessor uses an XRF Analyzer to detect and confirm the complete absence of lead.
- Lead-Free Certification improves property value, eliminates ongoing testing costs, and ensures lifelong safety and compliance.
* Certification must be completed by a qualified third-party lead professional.
Don't Wait Until 2027
Prepare your property for Upper Darby’s new lead certification requirements.