No landlord wants to hear that their property has failed a lead inspection. But it happens, and when it does, it is important to stay calm and understand the clear path forward. A failed inspection is not the end of the road — it is the beginning of a defined remediation process that leads to certification.
A property fails a visual lead inspection when the inspector identifies deteriorating paint conditions that indicate a potential lead hazard. This does not necessarily mean that lead-based paint is present — it means that paint in poor condition poses a risk of creating lead dust or chips that could harm occupants.
Common reasons properties fail include peeling paint on window sills, chipping paint on door frames, bubbling paint on walls near moisture, and deteriorating paint on banisters or stairways.
At DJP Lead, we do not leave landlords confused or without a plan. When a property does not pass, we walk you through exactly what was found and what needs to be corrected. We document every area of concern and provide clear, specific guidance on the remediation steps required.
You will know precisely what needs to be fixed, where it is located, and what standards the repair must meet before a certificate can be issued.
Remediation of deteriorating paint typically involves stabilizing the paint surface through proper preparation and repainting. It is critical that remediation is done correctly — simply painting over deteriorating lead paint without proper surface preparation is not sufficient and will not pass a re-inspection.
The key steps typically include:
Once remediation work is complete, a re-inspection is scheduled. DJP Lead will return to assess the repaired areas and conduct a fresh visual inspection of the entire property. If everything passes, your Lead-Safe Certificate is issued — the same day in most cases.
The best way to handle a failed inspection is to never have one in the first place. DJP Lead provides every client with pre-inspection guidance before our inspector arrives. We explain exactly what to look for, what needs to be addressed, and how to prepare your property for the best possible outcome.
This proactive approach has helped countless North Jersey landlords pass their inspections on the first visit. Contact us today to learn more.
Ready to schedule your lead inspection? Contact DJP Lead today at DJPLead.com. We serve all of North Jersey and can often accommodate same-week scheduling. Licensed under the NJDOH and permitted under the DCA — get your Lead-Safe Certification fast.