Leases and contracts must include a federal form about old lead paint. Landlords and sellers must also give buyers and renters the government brochure, Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home. When Remodeling Your Home. Task Force report confirmed that old lead paint that is well-maintained does not present a hazard and is best left undisturbed. Lead dust can form when old lead paint is dry scraped, dry sanded, or heated.
Dust also forms when painted surfaces bump or rub together.
Lead dust can get on surfaces and objects that people touch. Settled lead dust can re-enter the air when people vacuum, sweep, or walk through it. Don't ever try to remove old lead paint by yourself. It is absolutely essential that a professional contractor trained in proper handling and removal of lead-based paint performs the job. If you have already completed renovations that could have released lead-based paint or dust, get your young children tested.