Understanding Lead-Safe Requirements in Toledo, Ohio: What Property Owners Need to Know
Toledo Lead Paint Requirements – Local Building, Zoning & Inspections
Safe and Healthy Homes & Happy Kids
If you own or manage residential property in Toledo, Ohio, especially housing built before 1978, it’s important to understand and comply with the city’s Lead-Safe Ordinance. These rules are designed to reduce exposure to lead hazards and protect the health of tenants—especially children.
Whether you’re a landlord, a house flipper, or just someone maintaining older property, here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.
🧾 What Is the Lead-Safe Ordinance?
The City of Toledo Lead-Safe Ordinance requires all 1-4 unit residential rental properties and family childcare homes built before 1978 to obtain a Lead-Safe Certificate. The goal is to ensure these properties are free of deteriorated paint, hazardous dust, and lead-contaminated soil.
This requirement is being rolled out by census tract in phases. You can check your property’s deadline using the Toledo Lead-Safe Map.
🛠 How to Get Lead-Safe Certified
Here are the steps property owners must follow:
1. Register Your Property
Start by registering your rental property with the Lucas County Auditor as required under Ohio law (ORC 5323).
2. Hire a Certified Lead Inspector
You’ll need a licensed lead inspector to perform:
- A visual inspection
- Dust wipe sampling
A full list of local, certified inspectors is available at toledoleadsafe.com.
3. Prepare Your Property
Before your inspection, make sure to:
- Repair or repaint deteriorated surfaces
- Clean thoroughly
- Cover any bare soil within 3 feet of the building
4. Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your inspection report and application with a $45 per unit fee to the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department. You can apply online or by mail.
5. Certification Period
Lead-Safe Certificates are valid for five years. If your property has been fully abated of lead hazards, you may be eligible for a 20-year certificate.
💰 Grants and Financial Help
To ease the financial burden, the City of Toledo offers multiple programs:
🔹 Early Bird Matching Grant
- Covers 50% of eligible costs
- Up to $5,000 per unit
- Expenses include inspections, cleaning, repairs
🔹 Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control Grant
- Up to $14,000 per rental unit
- Currently not accepting new applicants
🔹 Lead Stabilization Grant (NEW)
- 100% reimbursement, up to $15,000 per unit
- Covers windows, doors, and other hazard control measures
- Available for expenses incurred after Feb 1, 2024, while funding lasts
For complete program info, visit Toledo Housing Department’s grant announcement.
🏗 Building, Zoning & Inspection Coordination
While the Lead-Safe Certificate is handled through the Health Department, any renovation or remediation must still comply with Toledo Building Code.
For zoning and building permit information:
🔗 toledo.oh.gov/departments/building-inspection
📞 Contacts & Support
- Toledo-Lucas County Health Dept.
- 635 N. Erie St., Toledo, OH 43604
- ☎️ 419-213-4100 (Option 3)
- Engage Toledo (General City Services)
- ☎️ 419-936-2020
- Lead-Safe Program Website
🧠 Final Thoughts
Lead safety isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a moral one. Getting certified protects your tenants, especially children, and contributes to the overall health and quality of Toledo’s neighborhoods.
Whether you’re managing a single rental or overseeing a full rehab project, this guide should help you stay compliant and take advantage of local funding to offset your costs.
We are working on projects in Toledo Ohio and Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. If you have questions or concerns about a project please reach to directly. The information above is the official requirements. We have experience in the field meeting these standards and passing these inspections. Real Estate Investing, Property Development, Construction, Remodeling, and Compliance: Full Project Management
Marcus R. Geiser Sr
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