California note
Pause before sanding or scraping paint in a pre-1978 home
CDPH says disturbed paint in a pre-1978 home can create hazardous lead dust, especially for young children and pregnant people.
Pause before you disturb paint in a home built before 1978. This includes sanding, scraping, replacing windows, and demolition. CDPH says most homes from before 1978 have some lead-based paint. Paint that is in good shape is usually not a hazard. Chipped paint or dust from repairs can be.
Young children, pregnant people, and developing fetuses face extra risk. Before work starts, CDPH advises testing the planned work area. Use a state-certified lead inspector or assessor for the test. Use certified lead workers when the job requires them. A regular CSLB contractor license does not replace a CDPH lead-related construction certificate.
For do-it-yourself work, start with CDPH’s lead-safe repair path. Read the federal lead-safe booklet linked there before disturbing paint. Keep dust inside the work area. Keep children and pregnant people away. Check that a professional’s CDPH certificate is current. The goal is to fix the surface without spreading lead dust through the home.
Where to see it
CDPH Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch pages.
Official sources
Official pages
Reviewed July 14, 2026
Current maps, alerts, conditions, and public safety guidance.
Conditions and public guidance can change quickly. Check the current page before you act.
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