CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

What does "Presumed Lead-Based Paint" designate?

1. Paint used in commercial buildings

2. Paint used only before 1950

3. Paint in residential structures built prior to January 1, 1978

4. Paint that contains organic lead compounds

The correct answer is: Paint in residential structures built prior to January 1, 1978

"Presumed Lead-Based Paint" refers specifically to paint that is found in residential structures built prior to January 1, 1978. This designation is based on regulations that recognize the period before this date as one when lead-based paints were commonly used due to their valuable properties, such as durability and moisture resistance. The federal government, through the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992, established 1978 as a cutoff date recognizing that residential properties built on or after this date are less likely to contain lead-based paint. Knowing this helps identify homes at risk for lead hazards, as lead poisoning can cause significant health issues, especially in children. While other types of structures, like commercial buildings, may also have lead paint, the designation “presumed lead-based paint” primarily applies to residential properties constructed before 1978.