Local Law 31 Compliance Required

NYC Local Law 31 XRF Testing
Definitive Lead Paint Results

Non-destructive XRF inspections with the SciAps X-550 Pb analyzer. Zero inconclusive readings. EPA-certified inspectors, 24-hour turnaround, all five boroughs.

No Inconclusive Results
HPD Filing Included
24-Hour Reports

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.

  • $1,500 penalty for failure to complete testing by deadline
  • $250 per day fine for failure to file results with HPD
  • Class C violations if lead hazards found and not remediated

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 calibrated using NIST-certified reference materials. This ensures accuracy and eliminates the inconclusive readings common with older XRF devices.

2

Comprehensive Surface Testing

Every painted surface in the unit is tested: walls, ceilings, doors, window frames, trim, and built-ins. Each reading takes 2-3 seconds and provides a definitive positive or negative result using the 0.5 mg/cm² threshold mandated by Local Law 66.

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

HPD-Compliant Report Delivery

Within 24 hours, you receive a comprehensive digital report with all readings, color-coded results, and HPD filing documentation. We assist with HPD form submission to ensure you meet the 10-day filing deadline.

Why SciAps X-550 Pb Matters for Local Law 31

The technology advantage that eliminates compliance risk.

Older XRF devices frequently return inconclusive results, requiring costly laboratory paint chip analysis and delaying compliance. The SciAps X-550 Pb is the industry's most advanced analyzer, delivering definitive results every time.

0%

Inconclusive Readings

2-3s

Per Surface Reading

24hr

Report Turnaround

Local Law 31 XRF Testing Pricing

Transparent pricing with no hidden fees. HPD filing assistance included.

1 Bedroom

$249
  • All surfaces tested
  • 24-hour digital report
  • HPD filing assistance
Most Popular

2 Bedroom

$299
  • All surfaces tested
  • 24-hour digital report
  • HPD filing assistance

3+ Bedrooms

$349+
  • All surfaces 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?

All pre-1960 rental buildings in NYC must complete XRF lead testing under Local Law 31. Failure to meet this deadline results in a $1,500 penalty plus daily fines of $250.

Why does Local Law 31 require XRF testing specifically?

Local Law 31 mandates XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) testing because it provides definitive, non-destructive results that can detect lead through multiple paint layers. Visual inspection alone is not sufficient under this law.

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 within 24 hours. We handle HPD filing on your behalf, which must be submitted within 10 days of inspection completion. If lead hazards are found, we provide remediation recommendations.

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 requirements and will result in penalties.

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

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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: 917-727-6541