In January 2026, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) updated its federal lead-based paint regulations, changing how lead dust is identified, reported, and cleared in pre-1978 housing. These updates affect lead inspections, risk assessments, and post-abatement clearance and reflect stricter protections based on current science.
Key Changes to Lead Dust Regulations
EPA made two important updates:
- New terminology for lead dust results
- Lower dust lead thresholds for post-abatement clearance
Together, these changes mean lead dust may be identified at lower levels than in the past, and clearance after abatement is now more stringent.
Dust-Lead Reportable Levels (DLRL)
What was previously called the dust-lead hazard standard is now the Dust-Lead Reportable Level (DLRL).
In practical terms, any lead detected in dust at or above a laboratory’s reportable level must now be documented. The reportable level is based on an EPA-recognized (NLLAP) laboratory’s reporting limit, not a fixed numeric hazard threshold. As a result, lead inspection and risk assessment reports may show detectable lead dust at lower concentrations than previously reported.
Dust-Lead Action Levels (DLAL)
EPA also replaced clearance levels with Dust-Lead Action Levels (DLAL). These are the pass/fail standards used after lead abatement or hazard control work.
For work evaluated on or after January 12, 2026, the action levels are:
- Floors: 5 µg/ft²
- Interior window sills: 40 µg/ft²
- Window troughs: 100 µg/ft²
These levels are significantly lower than prior standards, meaning more thorough cleaning and, in some cases, additional clearance testing may be required.
What This Means Going Forward
- Lead dust may be reportable at lower levels than before
- Post-abatement clearance is now based on more protective action levels
- Inspection, risk assessment, and clearance reports will reflect updated EPA terminology
Lead Expertise You Can Trust
Flatley Read, Inc. is an EPA-certified Lead Inspection and Risk Assessment firm and an EPA-accredited lead training provider. We work with property owners, contractors, and project managers to ensure lead inspections, clearance testing, and
training meet current federal requirements.
If you have questions about EPA lead regulations or need professional lead inspection, risk assessment, clearance testing, or accredited lead training, Flatley Read’s lead experts are here to help.