Lead Inspections for Landlords in Baltimore
Stay Compliant. Protect Your Tenants. Keep Your Rentals Moving.
If your rental property was built before 1978, Maryland law requires you to have a valid lead inspection certificate before you can rent it out. At Charm City Lead and Rental Inspection, we make that process fast, affordable, and stress-free—so you can stay focused on running your business.
Why Baltimore Landlords Need Lead Inspections
Under Maryland law, all pre-1978 rental properties must be inspected for lead-based paint hazards before every new tenant moves in. Skipping this step can delay your rental license, trigger legal issues, or even open you up to liability if a tenant is exposed.
Lead-based paint, even after decades, can still chip or flake—especially around windows, doors, and trim—and lead dust is a serious health hazard, especially for young children.
We help landlords stay ahead of it all with:
- Lead-Free or Limited Lead Risk Certificates
- Fast Scheduling & Quick Turnaround Times
- Clear Reports with Photos & Lab Results
- Support for MDE Registration and Compliance
Our Process – Simple, Fast, Compliant
- Walkthrough Inspection – We check all painted surfaces and high-risk areas.
- Dust Sampling – We take wipe samples from key spots and send them to an accredited lab.
- Certification – Once cleared, you’ll receive the official MDE lead certificate, ready for license submission.
We also help you stay on track with re-certifications and new tenant move-ins.
Why Landlords Choose Charm City
- Experienced, Certified Lead Inspectors
- Quick Response & Easy Scheduling
- Affordable Pricing—No Hidden Fees
- Help with MDE Filing & Paperwork
- Trusted by Property Owners with 1 to 100+ Units
Hear From Our Satisfied Customers
- Izabela Gajewski
“I highly recommend this company for both home inspection and Lead Paint inspection. Kimberly was the inspector, and she was truly outstanding. She was extremely professional, friendly, and very easy to work with. She explained the process i...”Read more of Izabela Gajewski’s review on Google
- Katie
“I was able to schedule a next day inspection on a single family home upon request. The inspector was very professional, knowledgeable, and articulate. A detailed and articulate assessment was promptly delivered the day after the inspection wa...”Read more of Katie’s review on Google
- Willie Ibarra
“Kimberly Castaneda was fantastic! Very professional and thorough on getting the job order completed in a timely manner. We needed assistance on obtaining a Rental License on our property in Dundalk, Maryland and Kimberly and her staff g...”Read more of Willie Ibarra’s review on Google
General Lead Inspection FAQs
What types of lead paint inspections are available in Maryland?
We offer two types of inspections:
- Lead Free (XRF) Inspection – Uses X-ray technology to check for lead paint.
- Full Risk Reduction (Dust Swipe) Inspection – A two-part inspection that checks for defective paint and lead dust.
How do I know which lead inspection I need?
Our inspectors start with a quick survey and spot-check using the XRF tool. Based on findings, we’ll proceed with either a Lead Free or Risk Reduction inspection to ensure compliance.
What is a Lead Free certificate?
If no lead-based paint is found using an XRF inspection, you will receive a Lead Free certificate. This means no further inspections are required, even with tenant turnover.
What is a Full Risk Reduction certificate?
This certificate is issued after a visual inspection and dust swipe test confirm there is no hazardous lead dust. It is valid only for the current tenant and must be renewed with each tenant change.
I am ready to schedule my Lead Inspection, What are the next steps?
Its Easy! Book Online or call us at 443-927-6301, We will call you to confirm the schedule date for your Lead Inspection. Upon completion and successfully passing the Lead Inspection we will provide you with a Lead Certificate along with a pamphlet of instructions on how to register your property with the Maryland Department of the environment.
Multi-Unit & Property Manager FAQs
Do you have to inspect every unit in a multi-family building?
Not always. For larger buildings, units may be selected randomly for inspection. If those pass, the entire building can qualify as Lead Free or Limited Lead Free.
What’s the difference between a Lead Free and Limited Lead Free certificate?
A Limited Lead Free certificate is issued when common areas or exteriors have intact lead paint but no defects. A Lead Free certificate confirms no lead paint is present anywhere tested.
Can you do Baltimore City or County rental inspections too?
Yes! We can complete your City or County rental inspection at the same time as your lead inspection for added convenience.
Do you back up digital lead certificates?
Yes. We keep multiple backups of your digital certificates so they’re never lost—even years later.
For Renovation, Buyers & Risk Reduction
I’m renovating a home built before 1978. Do I need lead testing?
Yes. The EPA requires RRP (Renovation, Repair and Painting) compliance. We can test painted surfaces for lead using an XRF gun and issue a report to share with contractors.
What’s the difference between lead-based paint and lead dust?
Lead-based paint is only dangerous when it’s chipping or deteriorating. Lead dust can form and become hazardous through friction, renovation, or neglect—especially dangerous for children.
Do homebuyers in Maryland need a lead inspection?
If you’re buying a home built before 1978, a lead inspection is highly recommended. It offers peace of mind and helps you meet local or federal renovation requirements.
What is a dust swipe inspection?
A dust swipe test involves collecting dust samples from surfaces in the home to check for unsafe levels of lead dust. It’s required for Risk Reduction certifications and often post-renovation.
Booking, Timing & Service FAQs
How fast can I schedule a lead paint inspection?
We typically complete inspections within 48 hours and offer service 6 days a week across Maryland and Washington, D.C.
How soon do I get my certificate after the inspection?
Once your property passes and we receive your MDE tracking number, we’ll email you a digital certificate and send a hard copy by mail.
What happens if the property fails inspection?
No problem. We provide a detailed email outlining what needs to be corrected, and we return for a follow-up inspection free of labor charge.
Can I speak to someone quickly if I have questions?
Absolutely. We answer calls 7 days a week, and return voicemails within 2 hours during business hours. We also email you every step of the way—from inspection to certificate.
Get in Touch with Us
Have questions or need to schedule an inspection? We’re here to help! Contact us today for fast, reliable service.