Short Answer:
Yes—for most pre-1978 rental units in New Jersey. If your property is built before 1978 and not exempt, you must have it inspected either when a tenant moves out or by the statewide deadline (July 22, 2025)—whichever comes first.
Which Properties Are Affected?
The law covers all rental units built before 1978, including single‑family homes, duplexes, and multi-unit buildings.
Exemptions include:
- Properties built in 1978 or later
- Seasonal rentals (<6 months, no consecutive leases)
- Buildings (3 + units) registered with DCA ≥ 10 years and with no lead violations
- Units already certified lead-free
Important Deadlines for Inspections
- Initial Inspection: Must occur within two years from July 22, 2022—meaning by July 22, 2024—or upon tenant turnover, whichever came first
- Extended Deadline: For tenants still in place, municipalities have extended the deadline to July 22, 2025 to finish lead-safe inspections
- Ongoing Inspections: After the initial check, units must be inspected every three years, or again at turnover if the Lead Safe certificate has expired (certificates last two years)
What Type of Inspection Is Required?
Depending on your town’s risk level:
- If <3% of local children under 6 have elevated blood lead levels, only a visual inspection is required.
- If ≥3% have elevated levels, a dust-wipe test is mandatory.
What If Lead Hazards Are Found?
- Any deteriorated paint (chipping, peeling) or hazardous dust means the property fails inspection.
- Landlords must abate or stabilize the hazards and achieve a clearance test before obtaining a fresh Lead Safe certificate.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Missing the deadline can mean fines up to $1,000 per week until the inspection or cleanup is completed.
- Municipalities are empowered to enforce and issue penalties if landlords fail to act within 30 days of notice.
What You Should Do Now
- Check your property’s build year and exemption status.
- Schedule your inspection asap—ideally before July 22, 2025, to avoid last-minute rush.
- Choose a certified lead evaluation contractor to perform inspection and report results.
- Remediate if hazards are found, and complete clearance testing.
- Obtain and submit your Lead Safe certification to your municipality and provide a copy to tenants (attach to lease).
- Plan ahead for the next inspection—three years from certification or at tenant turnover.
Why This Matters
- Protects your tenants—especially kids—from dangerous lead exposure.
- Keeps you legally compliant, avoiding fines and maintaining your reputation as a landlord.
- A Lead Safe certification is valid for three years—giving you peace of mind.
Summary
| Step | What to Do | When |
|---|---|---|
| Inspect | Hire certified contractor | By July 22, 2025 or current turnover |
| Certify | Obtain Lead Safe certificate | After passing inspection |
| Remediate | If hazards, complete abatement & clearance | As soon as hazards found |
| Submit | Provide certificate to town + tenants | Immediately after receipt |
| Renew | Schedule follow-up inspection | 3 years or at turnover |
Key Takeaways
- Yes, most pre-1978 rentals need inspection in 2025.
- Deadlines vary—July 2025 is the final safe window.
- Act now to avoid fines and ensure tenant safety.
- DJP Lead can guide you through inspections, certification, and even remediation.
Need help determining your property’s status or finding a certified contractor? DJP Lead is here to simplify the process—feel free to reach out for personalized guidance!
