What distinguishes lead determinations from lead inspections?

Lead determinations and lead inspections serve different purposes in assessing lead hazards in homes and buildings. Lead determinations are generally focused on a specific aspect of lead presence, often involving less rigorous testing and a simpler evaluation of whether lead-based paint or lead hazards exist.

In contrast, lead inspections are much more thorough and comprehensive. They involve a detailed analysis of all painted surfaces in a property, quantifying the amount of lead present and identifying the condition of the surfaces. This means that while a lead determination might indicate that lead is present, it does not provide the in-depth, detailed risk assessment that a lead inspection offers.

Thus, the distinction lies in the scope and comprehensiveness of the investigations. A lead determination is suitable for preliminary assessments or when identifying potential lead issues without the need for extensive analysis, while a lead inspection is required for comprehensive evaluations and compliance with regulations.