What Bronx Landlords Need to Know About HPD Lead Paint Rules in 2026

Why Lead Paint Rules Matter More Than Ever in 2026

If you own a residential building in the Bronx built before 1960, lead paint compliance is no longer something you can put off. New York City's lead paint laws have entered full enforcement mode in 2026 following the Local Law 31 testing deadline that passed in August 2025. HPD is actively auditing buildings, issuing violations, and imposing fines. This guide explains what Bronx landlords need to know right now to stay compliant and protect their investment.

Which Buildings Are Covered?

Under NYC Local Law 1 of 2004 and its amendments, lead paint rules apply to multiple dwellings of three or more residential units built before January 1, 1960. Buildings built between 1960 and 1978 are also covered if the owner has actual knowledge that lead paint is present. The full suite of inspection and remediation obligations are triggered when a child under six years old lives in or regularly spends 10 or more hours per week in a covered unit. Any pre-1960 building is legally presumed to contain lead paint unless the owner has obtained a Lead-Free Exemption through certified XRF testing.

What HPD Requires from Landlords

NYC landlords in covered buildings have several ongoing obligations. You must send an Annual Notice to every tenant by January 16 each year asking whether a child under six lives in or regularly visits the unit. When a child under six is identified, you must conduct a visual inspection for peeling or deteriorated paint and remediate any hazards using EPA-certified contractors and lead-safe work practices. Under Local Law 31, you were required to complete XRF testing of all units and common areas by August 9, 2025. If you missed that deadline, you are still required to complete testing, and HPD is actively enforcing compliance in 2026. All lead paint records including inspection reports, testing results, remediation documentation, and clearance testing must be maintained for at least 10 years and provided to HPD on demand.

What Happens at Tenant Turnover

When a tenant moves out and a new tenant moves in, landlords have additional obligations under Local Law 123. You must address lead paint on door and window friction surfaces and ensure floors are smooth and cleanable before the new tenant occupies the unit. You must also provide the new tenant with a completed turnover certification and the EPA pamphlet Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home. These turnover requirements apply at every tenant change, not just when a child is present.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

HPD takes lead paint violations seriously. When a Class C violation is issued, landlords have 21 days to correct the condition. If the landlord fails to act, HPD can hire a certified contractor to make the repairs and bill the cost directly to the building owner. Fines range from $250 to $1,500 per violation, with enhanced penalties for repeat offenders. HPD can also place a lien against your property for unreimbursed repair costs. New York courts have consistently held that landlords have a nondelegable duty to maintain safe housing, meaning you cannot escape liability by claiming ignorance or blaming a contractor.

How to Reduce Your Risk

The best way to reduce your lead paint liability is to get ahead of it. Complete XRF testing if you have not already done so. If testing confirms no lead paint above action levels, apply for a Lead-Free Exemption from HPD, which can significantly reduce your ongoing obligations. Keep all records organized and accessible. Send your Annual Notice on time every year. And use EPA-certified contractors for any paint work in covered units. A professional property manager handles all of this as part of their standard compliance service.

DoryAngel Handles Lead Paint Compliance for You

At DoryAngel LLC, we manage lead paint compliance as part of our full-service property management starting at $99 per unit per month. We track Annual Notice deadlines, coordinate certified inspections, manage remediation when needed, and maintain all required documentation. We serve the Bronx, Queens, Yonkers, Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, and North Jersey.

Book your free consultation: https://cal.com/dory-angel-management-v5o0ke/30min

Call (516) 847-4999 | Email: office@doryangel.com

Official sources: NYC HPD Lead-Based Paint page (nyc.gov/hpd), Local Law 1 of 2004, Local Law 31 of 2020, Local Law 123.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. NYC housing laws change frequently. Consult a licensed attorney or certified lead inspector for advice specific to your property. Last reviewed April 2026.