Lead is a metal that may be present in some older building materials, including certain paints. Disturbing a material can create a different exposure concern from leaving it intact.
What this means at your property
A repair that opens a painted wall may need material evaluation before sanding, cutting or demolition. Paint color and a visual inspection do not establish whether lead is present. The building’s age and prior records are useful starting information.
What should be settled before disturbing a suspect finish?
Ask who will evaluate the material and confirm the applicable work practices and qualifications. Keep that decision in the repair plan; ordinary dust cleanup is not a substitute for planning work around a potential lead hazard.
Related terms
Further reading: EPA: lead renovation, repair and painting.