CORE Environmental Consultants, Inc. was selected to perform large-scale lead-based paint (LBP) inspections for the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) as part of its multi-year compliance initiative to assess and manage lead hazards in residential units citywide. CORE’s work included comprehensive surface-by-surface inspections, confirmatory sampling, hazardous condition documentation, and regulatory reporting across thousands of apartment units in multi-family buildings. This initiative supported NYCHA’s compliance with HUD regulations, New York City Local Law 1, and the most recent lead threshold requirement of 0.5 mg/cm².
XRF Lead-Based Paint Inspections
CORE utilized SciAps X-550 Pb XRF analyzers, calibrated and maintained according to HUD and manufacturer PCS standards. Inspections were performed surface-by-surface across all painted components using the updated 0.5 mg/cm² threshold in compliance with New York City Local Law 66. Inspectors documented deteriorated surfaces and confirmed test accuracy with built-in QA/QC protocols. All data were processed and prepared for NYCHA’s internal compliance systems and city oversight.
Confirmatory Paint Chip Sampling
For positive or inconclusive XRF readings, CORE performed confirmatory paint chip sampling in accordance with HUD Chapter 7 guidelines. Samples were submitted to NYS ELAP-certified laboratories and the results were incorporated into each unit’s final lead status determination.
Hazardous Paint and Environmental Condition Assessment
In addition to lead testing, CORE identified and recorded environmental risk indicators such as mold, mildew, active leaks, and deteriorated paint conditions. These assessments were critical for categorizing unit conditions, flagging priority repairs, and informing broader lead hazard control efforts.
“CORE’s execution of citywide LBP inspections demonstrated the scale, accuracy, and reporting rigor required to meet HUD and NYC regulatory expectations.”
Tenant Notification and Compliance Support
CORE managed the preparation and distribution of lead hazard notification letters to tenants, as well as the documentation needed to support exemption filings under NYC Administrative Code §27-2056.5(a). All administrative deliverables followed NYCHA’s format and compliance schedule.
QA/QC, Floor Plans, and Reporting
Each unit inspection included digital floor plan sketches, location-specific testing data, and photographic documentation. Final reports were generated with full data summaries, classification logic, and HUD-formatted compliance outputs. CORE’s robust internal QA/QC processes ensured data integrity and regulatory accuracy for every submission.
