Is There Lead Paint Risk at Your Address?
Lead-based paint was used in 50% of U.S. homes built before the 1978 federal ban. Enter any address to check the lead paint risk in your area based on housing age data from the U.S. Census Bureau.
Highest Lead Paint Risk by State
States with the highest percentage of housing built before the 1978 lead paint ban.
| Rank | State | Pre-1978 Housing | Total Housing | Risk Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New York | 6,363,947 | 8,518,962 | 74.7% |
| 2 | Rhode Island | 347,118 | 484,615 | 71.6% |
| 3 | District of Columbia | 250,295 | 356,101 | 70.3% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 2,056,282 | 3,014,657 | 68.2% |
| 5 | Pennsylvania | 3,917,934 | 5,779,663 | 67.8% |
| 6 | Connecticut | 1,040,573 | 1,536,049 | 67.7% |
| 7 | Illinois | 3,491,756 | 5,443,501 | 64.1% |
| 8 | Ohio | 3,375,298 | 5,271,573 | 64.0% |
| 9 | New Jersey | 2,401,660 | 3,775,842 | 63.6% |
| 10 | Michigan | 2,874,796 | 4,599,683 | 62.5% |
Why Lead Paint Matters
Health Risks
Lead exposure can cause developmental delays in children, high blood pressure, kidney damage, and reproductive problems in adults. Children under 6 are most vulnerable.
The 1978 Ban
The U.S. banned lead-based paint for residential use in 1978. Homes built before this date may contain lead paint, especially those built before 1960 when lead content was highest.
What To Do
If your home was built before 1978, consider getting a professional lead inspection. Don't disturb painted surfaces that may contain lead. Keep painted surfaces in good condition.