Lead Paint Surveys & Testing
Lead-based paints remain in many older UK buildings. Our lead paint surveys identify where lead paint is present before redecoration, refurbishment or demolition, so you can plan safe working methods, protect occupants and manage waste correctly.
What Is a Lead Paint Survey?
A lead paint survey is a targeted inspection of painted surfaces to find out whether lead-based paint is present. Lead-based paints were widely used in UK buildings, particularly before the 1960s, and were withdrawn from general sale in 1992, so older layers of paint are often hidden beneath newer coatings. The survey involves a review of the planned works, inspection of painted surfaces such as windows, doors, frames, railings, metalwork and walls, and sampling of paint for specialist laboratory analysis of lead content. The report shows where lead paint was found and what it means for your works. Lead paint surveys can be carried out on their own or as part of a wider hazardous material assessment.
When Is a Lead Paint Survey Needed?
- Before sanding, stripping, burning off or abrading old paintwork
- Before refurbishment, redecoration or demolition of older buildings
- When paintwork in older buildings is flaking or deteriorating
- Before work on historic windows, doors, railings and metalwork
- When painted waste needs to be classified before disposal
- When pre-construction information on hazardous materials is needed under CDM 2015
Who Needs a Lead Paint Survey?
- Building owners, landlords and managing agents of older properties
- Schools, housing providers and public sector estates
- Heritage and listed building owners with historic paintwork
- Decorating, refurbishment and demolition contractors
- Principal designers and principal contractors under CDM 2015
- Facilities managers planning maintenance programmes
What You Receive
- Survey scoped to the areas and surfaces affected by your planned works
- Inspection of painted surfaces and representative paint sampling
- Specialist laboratory analysis of lead content
- Written report with sample locations, photographs and results
- Plain-English interpretation of results for your planned works
- Practical recommendations on safe working, further assessment and waste
Our Survey Process
Scoping
We review your planned works and the age and history of the building, then agree which areas and painted surfaces the survey needs to cover.
Inspection & Paint Sampling
We inspect the agreed areas and take representative paint samples, including underlying layers, using controls to minimise dust and disturbance.
Specialist Laboratory Analysis
Paint samples are sent to a specialist laboratory and analysed for lead content.
Reporting & Recommendations
You receive a clear report showing where lead paint was found, the result for each sample and our recommendations on safe working methods, further assessment and waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is lead paint dangerous if it is in good condition?
Lead paint in good condition that is not being disturbed generally presents a low risk. The risk increases when paint is flaking or when work such as sanding, stripping, burning off or demolition creates lead dust or fume. Where work is liable to expose people to lead, the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 require the risk to be assessed and controlled.
Which buildings are likely to contain lead paint?
Lead paint is most likely in buildings constructed or decorated before the 1960s, but it can be present in buildings decorated up to 1992, when lead-based paints were withdrawn from general sale. Older layers are often hidden beneath newer paint.
How is lead paint tested?
We take representative samples of paint, including underlying layers, from the surfaces affected by your works. The samples are analysed by a specialist laboratory for lead content, and the results are set out in a written report with sample locations and photographs.
Is a lead paint survey part of a hazardous material assessment?
It can be. A lead paint survey focuses on painted surfaces. A hazardous material assessment can also cover other substances such as PAHs and PCBs. We can recommend the right scope for your building and planned works.
Will the report help with waste disposal?
Yes. The laboratory results provide information that can be used to classify painted waste in line with Environment Agency guidance (WM3) and to inform discussions with your waste contractor.
Lead Paint Surveys & Testing Across the UK
Ready to Discuss Your Requirements?
Contact our team for expert advice and a detailed quotation.