Hidden Dangers of Lead Based Paint:
Lead paint is not always visible. Even small amounts of dust can be very harmful especially to children under age 6. The moving parts of doors and windows can create lead dust which can cause lead poisoning by breathing it into the body.
To prevent child lead poisoning, it is important to know where lead hazards are in your home and take appropriate steps to control them. Immediate steps include restricting access to the lead paint and wet methods of cleaning. Long term control such as new windows and doors, paint encapsulation should be done by a certified lead abatement contractor. A HUD grant funded program is available to qualified applicants to help pay for this important work.
The City of Allentown has received funding through HUD to address lead and other hazards in homes. This funding is available to qualified homeowner’s and landlords of income qualified tenants. Lead Hazard Control Program homes must be pre-1978 and occupied or frequently visited by a child under the age of 6.
Contact our Program Coordinator to request an application and learn more about our program(s). Once approved, a lead risk assessment will be completed. The Risk Assessor will then prepare a scope of work to address any identified hazards. The project will be completed by an approved and licensed lead abatement contractor.
Occupants may be relocated until work is complete. Homes are retested for traces of lead dust and once cleared the family is able to return home.
Homeowners and landlords who have a home in the City of Allentown, built before 1978 and occupied by a pregnant woman and/or children aged 6 or younger. The occupant(s) must have a combined income at or below 80% of the median household income.
The chart below shows the greatest amount of combined income allowed per family size. Example: A family of 4 must earn less than $78,650.
