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NYC Local Law 31 XRF Lead Testing & Compliance
What Is Local Law 31?
Local Law 31 of 2020 is a New York City regulation created to reduce lead exposure and protect public health, especially for children. The law requires property owners to complete X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) lead paint testing to determine whether lead-based paint is present in residential units and common areas.
Local Law 31 applies to NYC buildings that are:
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Built before 1960
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Built between 1960 and 1978 if lead-based paint is known or suspected
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Multi-family rental properties, co-ops, and condominiums with rental units
All applicable buildings must complete certified lead testing and maintain documentation to demonstrate compliance.
Local Law 31 XRF Testing Requirements
Under Local Law 31, lead inspections must be performed using X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analyzers by EPA-certified lead inspectors or risk assessors.
XRF testing is the preferred method because it:
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Provides accurate, non-destructive lead paint detection
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Identifies lead content beneath multiple layers of paint
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Produces reliable results that meet NYC regulatory standards
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Allows inspections without damaging walls, doors, or trim
XRF inspections are required for all dwelling units and common areas, including vacant apartments.
Local Law 31 Compliance Deadlines
NYC property owners must complete required XRF lead testing by August 9, 2025.
Additional requirements include:
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Maintaining detailed inspection reports and certifications
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Providing documentation upon request by city agencies
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Completing testing within one year if a child under six lives in or regularly visits a unit
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Making reasonable efforts to gain access to apartments for inspection
Failure to comply can result in serious violations, fines, and enforcement action.
NYC-Compliant XRF Testing by BEP Environmental
BEP Environmental provides professional, EPA-certified Local Law 31 XRF lead testing services throughout New York City. We help building owners, property managers, and real estate professionals meet compliance requirements efficiently and accurately.
Why Choose BEP Environmental?
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EPA-Certified Lead Inspectors
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Local Law 31-Compliant XRF Testing
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Fast Turnaround Inspection Reports
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Non-Destructive, Accurate Testing Methods
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Clear Documentation for Compliance Records
Our experienced team ensures your building is tested correctly and your records are complete, helping you avoid violations and unnecessary delays.
What is the penalty if I don't complete the testing in time?
Failure to comply may result in a Class "C" immediately hazardous violation, making you liable for civil penalties up to a maximum of $1500.
For more information on the dangers of lead in paint used in your building and a property owner's responsibility related to lead-based paint, visit nyc.gov/leadfree.
LL31 XRF Lead Inspection FAQ
Do all apartments need XRF testing under Local Law 31?
Yes. All dwelling units and common areas in applicable buildings must be tested, including vacant apartments. This included two family home, single family homes, and co-op or condo units if they are rented, and built before 1960.
My building was gut renovated, there's no lead-based paint in my building. Why do I have to test?
Unless the building was demolished, and there is a new build date, ALL buildings built before 1960 (and some between 1960-1978) will need to be tested as the requirement is based on the year the building was built, regardless of renovations. The good news is that these buildings will most likely be eligible for a Lead Free Exemption once tested, and BEP can help with that!
What happens if lead-based paint is found?
Requirements depend on a few factors: Occupancy, condition of paint, component containing lead.
In child occupied units, any peeling or chipping paint must be addressed immediately. Friction surfaces must be abated in child occupied units by July 2027, regardless of condition of paint. (Friction surfaces include doors, door frames, windows, window frames.)
Presence of Lead-based paint must be disclosed to tenants
All friction surfaces must be abated upon turnover.
Non-friction surfaces do not need to be abated, but do need to be remediated if they are peeling or chipping.
All work involving lead-based paint must be performed by EPA Certified Firms.
Is XRF testing destructive?
No. XRF testing is non-destructive and does not damage painted surfaces.
Who can perform Local Law 31 XRF testing?
Only EPA-certified lead inspectors or risk assessors are authorized to conduct Local Law 31 XRF inspections.
What happens if my building is not compliant?
Non-compliance can result in violations, fines, and potential legal action by the city.