Lead in Paint Sampling

A crucial step in safe building refurbishment

As the construction and building industry continues to modernize and prioritize health and safety, one persistent hazard still lingers in many older structures: lead-based paint. Used extensively in homes, schools, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities until the late 20th century, lead-containing paint poses significant health risks when disturbed during renovation or refurbishment projects. That’s where lead paint sampling services come into play, providing peace of mind and legal compliance for building owners, contractors, and refurbishment teams.

Why lead in paint is a concern?

Lead was commonly added to paint for its durability, moisture resistance, and vibrant color properties. However, it is now widely recognized as a toxic material that can lead to serious health issues, particularly in children and pregnant women. When lead-based paint deteriorates or is disturbed (e.g., through sanding, cutting, or demolition), hazardous dust and particles can be released into the environment.

Common health effects include:

Neurological damage
Developmental delays in children
Kidney and liver issues
Respiratory problems

Who needs lead paint sampling?

Lead paint testing is particularly important for:

Refurbishment contractors working on buildings constructed before the 1980s
Property managers and landlords maintaining older housing stock
Local authorities and schools ensuring compliance with health and safety legislation
Homeowners planning DIY renovations on older properties

What is lead paint sampling?

Lead paint sampling is a systematic process that involves collecting paint samples from different surfaces throughout a building to determine the presence and concentration of lead. This process is typically undertaken before any refurbishment or demolition work begins, as part of a pre-construction risk assessment.

How the process works:

Site Inspection & Planning
Our trained team visits the property to identify areas where paint samples should be taken, typically focusing on walls, doors, window frames, skirting boards, and ceilings.
Sample Collection
Using specialised tools, small samples of paint are carefully extracted from multiple locations, ensuring representative coverage across the building’s structure.
Lab Analysis
The samples are securely packaged and sent to an accredited laboratory, where they are analyzed using techniques such as X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) or Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) to determine the exact lead content.
Reporting
Once analysis is complete, we provide a detailed report outlining:
– Lead concentrations in each sample
– Areas of concern that may require specialist removal
– Recommendations for safe refurbishment or removal methods

Why it’s important before refurbishment

Attempting to refurbish a building without assessing lead content can expose workers and occupants to serious health risks and potentially violate health and safety regulations such as:

The Control of Lead at Work Regulations (CLAW)
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM)
Health and Safety at Work Act

By identifying lead hazards early, refurbishment plans can be adapted to include safe removal, containment, or encapsulation measures.

Types of buildings we serve

We provide lead paint sampling services across a wide range of building types, including:

Residential homes and flats
Commercial offices and retail spaces
Industrial warehouses and factories
Public sector buildings (schools, hospitals, libraries)
Heritage and listed buildings (where specialist techniques are required)

Our commitment to safety and compliance

Our team is fully trained in hazardous material handling and follows strict sampling protocols to ensure minimal disruption and maximum accuracy. With our laboratory partners, we guarantee fast turnaround times and comprehensive reporting.

Considering refurbishment or renovation work on an older building? Don’t take risks with lead exposure. Contact us today to book your lead paint sampling service and ensure a safe and compliant project from start to finish.

Contact our friendly team of experts to find out more about Lead in Paint Sampling or any of our other services: