This regulation outlines specific requirements for lead safety under HUD programs pursuant to sections 1012 and 1013 of the 1992 Housing and Community Development Act (Title X). These standards supersede the patchwork of HUD’s prior regulations related to lead-based paint and apply to virtually all HUD housing and community development programs, including tenant-based and project-based housing assistance and federally funded rehabilitation.

Details on the standards and reference materials are available from the Lead-Safe Housing Rule page on HUD's website. The National Center for Healthy Housing has also developed an online guide to the rule.

Ensuring Effective Implementation

HUD’s transition implementation plan allowed jurisdictions that faced a shortfall of trained workers and contractors to qualify for a transition period. The final transition period expired January 11, 2002. HUD committed $12 million for training and capacity building. Through the efforts of HUD and others, more than 30,000 individuals have been trained in lead-safe work practices, abatement, risk assessment, or lead dust sampling. Meeting the substantial challenge of training all who perform any work in older housing is a critical priority for everyone working on lead poisoning prevention—health departments, HUD grantees, community-based organizations, lead services contractors, and trainers.

Widespread compliance with HUD’s rule will multiply lead safety activity many times over. Achieving full compliance will require giving painters and remodelers basic training in lead safety as well as expanding the number of certified lead services contractors.