Welcome to LeadSAFE Erie County, the Erie County Department of Health’s (ECDOH) program to prevent lead poisoning. On this page, you will find information about lead poisoning prevention trainings, programs, and services available to contractors, landlords and property managers from the ECDOH and our community partners.
To have your tap water tested for lead, contact the Erie County Public Health Lab at (716) 898-6100.
Eleven zip codes in Erie County have been designated by the New York State Department of Health as “Communities of Concern”: 14201, 14204, 14206, 14207, 14208, 14210, 14211, 14212, 14213, 14214, 14215, and 14225 (west of I-90). Children who live in these zip codes are at exceptionally high risk for lead poisoning. Communities of Concern Map.
Was your property built before 1978?
If so, then you should assume that your home has lead in it and take steps to protect your household and reduce the risk of lead poisoning. Use the database below to find out what year the house you are living in was built.
NY State Lead Rental Registry Program
If you own a residential dwelling with 2 or more units in a Community of Concern built before 1980, you will need to register your property with the state.
The New York State Lead Rental Registry is a statewide program to identify and remediate lead hazards in pre- 1980 rental units located in "communities of concern" in New York State. This program aims to reduce childhood lead poisoning by requiring landlords to register their properties, conduct lead hazard inspections, and ensure prompt remediation of any identified hazards.
Renovating?
Make sure your contractors are certified in RRP!
Contractors who perform renovation, repairs, and painting (RRP) in pre-1978 housing need to have this certification and must take special precautions around paint that may contain lead. Under the strict EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) rule, which took effect on April 22, 2010, special certification is required for all home improvement work in housing built before 1978 and in ANY child occupied facility. This rule is intended to ensure that any activity that disturbs paint in older housing is performed using lead-safe work practices. For more information, visit the EPA RRP website or call 1-800-424-LEAD (5323).
More information for contractors
More information for homeowners, landlords and property managers
Renovation, Repair & Painting (RRP) Certification Class
Every year hundreds of children are diagnosed with lead poisoning due to exposure to lead during home repairs and renovations. In these classes for landlords, property managers and contractors, you will learn how to work safely around lead when remodeling, repairing, or painting your home.
Lead Safe Tool Borrowing Program
The Lead Safe Tool Borrowing Program is a partnership between the ECDOH and the Tool Library which was created to provide the knowledge and tools that families need to protect themselves from lead exposure and maintain affordable, clean, and safe housing.