Local Law 31 Compliance Required

NYC Local Law 31 XRF Testing
Clear Lead Paint Documentation

Non-destructive XRF inspections with the SciAps X-550 Pb analyzer. Component-level readings, EPA-certified inspectors, typical 24-hour turnaround, and service throughout all five boroughs.

Component-Level Readings
Digital Record Package
24-Hour Reports

Quick Facts: Local Law 31 XRF Testing

  • Rapid Lead Testing performs EPA-certified XRF lead paint inspections for NYC Local Law 31 compliance.
  • Local Law 31 focuses on XRF testing of applicable dwelling units and common areas in qualifying NYC rental buildings.
  • Published XRF pricing: $249–$399 by unit size, with building-wide quotes available.
  • Equipment: SciAps X-550 Pb XRF Analyzer. Typical XRF reports are delivered within 24 hours.

Registering a rental or organizing compliance files? Read why owners should verify XRF records before the scheduling rush—without assuming registration itself always requires a report upload.

Local Law 31 Requirements

Understand what the law requires and how our XRF testing service ensures full compliance.

Who Must Comply

  • Pre-1960 rental buildings with three or more dwelling units
  • Pre-1978 buildings where lead-based paint is known to exist
  • All dwelling units AND common areas must be tested
  • Owner-occupied buildings with rental units included

What Must Be Tested

Local Law 31 requires XRF testing of all painted surfaces in covered buildings. Visual inspection alone does not satisfy the requirement.

In Each Unit

  • Walls & ceilings
  • Doors & frames
  • Windows & sills
  • Baseboards & trim
  • Built-in features

Common Areas

  • Hallways
  • Stairwells
  • Lobbies
  • Basements
  • Shared spaces

Critical Deadline

The August 9, 2025 deadline has passed for all covered buildings to complete XRF testing.

  • Confirm whether every covered dwelling unit and common area was tested
  • Retain the complete XRF report and access-attempt records for at least ten years
  • Provide required lead records to HPD when requested

Inspector Certification Requirements

Local Law 31 requires testing to be performed by an EPA-certified Risk Assessor or Inspector using XRF technology. All Rapid Lead Testing inspectors are EPA-certified, and our firm holds an active EPA Lead-Safe Firm certification.

How Our XRF Testing Ensures Compliance

Step-by-step process designed specifically for Local Law 31 requirements.

1

Pre-Inspection Calibration

Before every inspection, our SciAps X-550 Pb is checked using NIST-certified reference materials. These quality-control checks support reliable field readings; unusual surface conditions may still require confirmatory analysis.

2

Comprehensive Surface Testing

Painted components in the inspection scope are tested, including walls, ceilings, doors, window frames, trim, and built-ins. The inspector records component-level readings using the applicable 0.5 mg/cm² action level and documents any condition requiring follow-up.

3

Real-Time Documentation

Results are recorded in real-time on a ruggedized tablet with location mapping. This creates a comprehensive digital trail that satisfies HPD's documentation requirements and survives audits.

4

Compliance Record Delivery

Typically within 24 hours, you receive a comprehensive digital report with readings, locations, and supporting documentation. Keep the report with the property's lead-compliance records and provide it to HPD when requested.

Why SciAps X-550 Pb Matters for Local Law 31

Modern field technology paired with trained inspection and careful documentation.

Modern XRF equipment provides fast, non-destructive component readings and reduces reliance on destructive sampling. Some substrates, surface conditions, or instrument responses can still require confirmatory analysis; the report should make any follow-up clear.

Documented Readings

2-3s

Per Surface Reading

24hr

Report Turnaround

Local Law 31 XRF Testing Pricing

Transparent pricing with no hidden fees and a digital compliance record package.

1 Bedroom

$249
  • Painted components in scope tested
  • 24-hour digital report
  • Digital compliance record package
Most Popular

2 Bedroom

$299
  • Painted components in scope tested
  • 24-hour digital report
  • Digital compliance record package

3+ Bedrooms

$349+
  • Painted components in scope tested
  • 24-hour digital report
  • Volume discounts available

Common Area Testing: Starting at $199

Volume discounts available for buildings with 6+ units

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Local Law 31 deadline?

HPD states that covered multiple dwellings had to complete XRF testing of dwelling units and common areas by August 9, 2025. Owners should verify coverage, keep the complete inspection records, and provide them to HPD when requested.

Why does Local Law 31 require XRF testing specifically?

HPD requires covered properties to be tested by an independent EPA-certified lead inspector or risk assessor using XRF technology. XRF is non-destructive and provides component-level readings; some surface conditions may require confirmatory analysis.

How much does Local Law 31 XRF testing cost?

Pricing ranges from $249 for a 1-bedroom unit to $399 for a 4-bedroom unit. Common area testing starts at $199. Volume discounts are available for buildings with multiple units.

What happens after XRF testing is complete?

You'll receive a comprehensive digital report, typically within 24 hours, for your compliance records. Owners should retain XRF records for at least ten years and provide them to HPD when requested. If lead is identified, we explain the results and appropriate next steps.

Do vacant units need to be tested under Local Law 31?

Yes. Local Law 31 requires XRF testing of all dwelling units, whether occupied or vacant. The deadline applies to all units in covered buildings regardless of occupancy status.

Can I test my building myself or hire a non-certified inspector?

No. Local Law 31 requires testing to be performed by an EPA-certified Risk Assessor or Inspector. Self-testing or using a non-certified inspector will not satisfy HPD's inspection requirements.

Common Building Types That Need This Service

Pre-War Buildings

Pre-1960 (87% have lead)

Rent-Stabilized

Stricter enforcement

Multi-Family

3+ rental units

Related Services

All NYC Lead Laws

Complete guide to Local Laws 1, 31, 66, and 111

All Services

XRF testing, dust wipes, and violation clearance

Lead Safety Blog

Expert guides on NYC lead compliance

Don't Wait Until the Deadline

The Local Law 31 deadline has passed. Schedule your Local Law 31 XRF testing today and avoid penalties.

Schedule Inspection Call: +19177276541

Official Sources and Review Status

Last reviewed: July 11, 2026. Rapid Lead Testing explains inspection and compliance workflows; official requirements and enforcement details are controlled by the government sources below.

This page is informational and is not legal advice. Verify project-specific obligations with NYC HPD, the EPA, HUD, or qualified legal counsel.

Ready to get your building tested?