Lead Clearance Exam in Cleveland
The verification step that turns finished work into a passing city filing.
Dust wipe sampling by an Ohio State Licensed Lead Risk Assessor, accredited lab analysis in 24 to 72 hours.
When a clearance exam is the right test
A clearance examination answers one question: is this unit now below Ohio's lead hazard limits? It is the test you need after interior repair, repainting, window work, or renovation, and it is also the routine renewal test for a unit already in good condition.
If you do not yet know the condition of the paint and need a corrective plan rather than a verdict, start with a risk assessment instead — see Cleveland lead safe certification for how the two fit together.
Dust wipe sampling, surface by surface
Lead dust settles where children touch and where windows move. We sample a measured area on each of three surface types and compare the laboratory result to the Ohio threshold for that surface.
Floors
10 µg/ft²
Ohio hazard threshold
Interior windowsills
100 µg/ft²
Ohio hazard threshold
Window troughs
100 µg/ft²
Ohio hazard threshold
Turnaround
- About 30 minutes on site for a typical single unit.
- Samples logged on site and delivered to an accredited laboratory the same day where possible.
- Lab analysis returned in 24 to 72 hours, with rush options available.
- Report roughly 98% complete before we leave, finalized the moment lab data arrives.
What a passing result produces
- A clearance report listing every sample location with its measured lead loading against the threshold.
- The documentation set the City of Cleveland requires for your Lead Safe Certificate.
- Direct filing with the city, handled by us, so the certificate lands against your address.
- A two-year compliance window — or a 20-year exemption if you choose the XRF route instead.
Lead testing grants may be available
From time to time, grant money is available to cover the cost of a lead risk assessment. These grants are usually for properties being lead tested for the first time and can provide up to $750 per unit. Programs and eligibility can change without notice.
When a qualifying grant is available, we handle all the paperwork and file it with the appropriate agency. In many cases, the grant covers more than the cost of the inspection.
Frequently asked questions
Book your clearance exam
Pick a time online, or call and we will schedule it for you.