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COMMON QUESTIONS

The Help Center

THE CITY OF DETROIT SAYS I NEED A LEAD CLEARANCE.  WHY DO I NEED A LEAD INSPECTION AND RISK ASSESSMENT?

The lead clearance is the inspection done after lead hazard work is complete.  If the property passes, it is considered lead safe and can be certified.  In order to know what items need fixing, a Lead Inspection Risk Assessment Combo inspection (LIRA) must be done first.  If you have already had a lead inspection and you can give us a copy, you would only need a risk assessment.  Also, if the risk assessment finds there are no hazards, the property passes without needing hazard work or a clearance.

I'VE OWNED A RENTAL IN THE CITY OF DETROIT FOR A LONG TIME AND NEVER KNEW I NEEDED A LEAD INSPECTION.  IS THIS A NEW RULE?

The lead safe requirements went in effect in 2010.  Up until recently there hasn't been much enforcement so landlords have ignored the ordinance.  That is set to change in 2018.  As it increases in prosperity, the city is coming up with new ways to enforce these rules.  Unfortunately many investors have been hit with severe fines already.

I ALREADY HAVE TROUBLE KEEPING UP WITH THE EXPENSES OF MAINTAINING MY PROPERTY.  IS IT WORTH IT TO STAY IN THIS MARKET?

If you are trying to decide whether to get your property certified or to sell it without investing more money, we can help by performing a scope review.  This is an informal assessment of the condition, the potential scope of lead hazards based on typical problems, and the general marketability of your investment.

I'VE HAD A LIRA, WHO CAN DO THE WORK? 

There are 2 types of lead hazard controls.  The easier/cheaper route are temporary fixes called "interim controls."  You can hire an RRP certified painter for interim control and cleaning work.  A more expensive route is "abatements" that include removing and replacing components with LBP, enclosing those surfaces, or encapsulating those surfaces.  For abatement work you need a certified lead abatement company.  The state of Michigan maintains a list of active lead professionals at Michigan.gov/mileadsafe

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