Step-by-Step Guide:

Notice of Defect and Modified Risk Reduction Inspection in Maryland

Introduction

If you’ve received a Notice of Defect for your property in Maryland, it means there are lead paint hazards that must be fixed to protect your tenants. This notice requires you, as the property owner, to address the problem and pass a Modified Risk Reduction Inspection within 30 days.

This guide walks you through the process step-by-step to help you resolve the issue and stay compliant with Maryland law.

Step 1: What Is a Notice of Defect?

A Notice of Defect is issued when:

• Lead paint hazards, like peeling paint or lead dust, are found in the home.

• A child under 6 or a pregnant woman lives there.

As the owner, you must fix the problem within 30 days. If you don’t, you could face legal penalties.

Step 2: Hire a Certified Inspector

You’ll need to hire a certified lead paint inspector to confirm the issue and help guide you on what repairs are needed to fix the hazards.Step 3: Fix the Lead Hazards

Once you know where the lead hazards are, the following repairs must be completed:

• Peeling Paint: Scrape and repaint areas with peeling or chipping paint.

• Windows and Doors: Fix or replace parts that cause friction, like old sashes or door frames, to stop lead dust from forming.

• Clean Thoroughly: Use a HEPA vacuum and wet cleaning to remove lead dust from all surfaces.

You’ll need to hire an EPA-certified contractor to do this work.

Step 4: Get a Dust Wipe Test

After the repairs are done, a certified lead inspector will collect dust samples from the floors, windows, and other surfaces to make sure there’s no lead dust left. The samples will be sent to a lab to confirm the property is safe.

Step 5: Pass the Inspection

To pass the Modified Risk Reduction Inspection, your property must:

1. Have all peeling paint and other hazards repaired.

2. Pass the dust wipe test with lead levels below the legal limit.

3. Receive a 330 Certificate of Compliance from the inspector.

Step 6: Give Your Tenants the Results

Once you’ve passed the inspection:

• Provide your tenants with a copy of the 330 Certificate and the dust test results.

• Keep these documents for your records.

At #00 Lead Inspections & Abatements LLC, we’re here to help you every step of the way. From inspections to passing your compliance test, we’ll make sure your property meets Maryland’s requirements.

Call us today at 443-839-3565 or book online to schedule your inspection!