January 28, 2025

 HPD’s new platform has already processed over 5,000 applications, advancing compliance and protecting tenants citywide

New York, NY – In a step toward simplifying compliance for property owners, the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) has launched the Lead Exemption Online Portal (LEOP). This platform offers an efficient, user-friendly way to apply for lead exemptions, helping property owners—whether managing a single pre-1960 building or an extensive portfolio report apartments free of lead-based paint.  Lead-based paint hazards can pose serious danger to the health of small children. Importantly, filing for an exemption will ensure that owners receive the benefits of having lead-paint free spaces which are no longer subject to some of the requirements of Local Law 1. 

The launch of LEOP represents an extension of the city’s longstanding commitment to reducing lead exposure for New Yorkers. As highlighted in the City’s LeadFreeNYC report, Taking the Lead on Lead, city-wide efforts have contributed to a 93% decline in childhood lead exposure since 2005. Additionally, through annual events held during National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, HPD works alongside partner agencies to educate New Yorkers about lead hazards and preventative measures.

Buildings constructed before 1960 are presumed to contain lead-based paint under New York City law, posing a dangerous health risk to young children when the paint is peeling, chipped, or causing dust. By August 2025, all residential buildings constructed before 1960 must undergo comprehensive lead paint testing in apartments and common areas. Testing must be conducted by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-certified inspectors or risk assessor to conduct these tests independently of any firms hired for lead-based paint remediation. More information about these requirements can be found at Lead-Based Paint – HPD under Owner Responsibilities: Paint Testing Requirement.  If testing confirms a unit is free of lead-based paint, owners are encouraged to file immediately using LEOP since all of the information necessary for an exemption will be readily available to them.  If the testing identifies lead-based paint during the testing owners who choose to move ahead and remove all of the lead-based paint from the unit can also apply for an exemption once they have properly remediated any lead.    

LEOP simplifies the exemption process for property owners who have confirmed their buildings are lead-free or who have properly remediated lead hazards. This exemption relieves property owners of legal obligations, such as issuing annual notices and conducting inspections for units with children under six eliminating administrative and recordkeeping requirements as well as requirements related to the use of safe work practice.

The new platform’s features include:

• Easy access for property owners to submit applications online, ensuring convenience and efficiency.
• Real-time updates on application status for greater transparency and accountability.
• Clear step-by-step guidance to ensure compliance with lead safety regulations.
• Direct communication with HPD for prompt responses to questions or concerns.
• Faster processing times to reduce delays and expedite exemption approvals.

Since its launch, LEOP has already processed over 5,000 applications submitted by property owners of privately owned properties, with 1,588 apartments designated as lead-free or lead-safe as of December 2024.  Owners interested in accessing LEOP can search HPDONLINE or Lead Exemption Online Portal and Click Owners Services at the bottom of the landing page.

Key Deadlines, Requirements, and Consequences of Non-Compliance

Property owners are reminded to immediately address lead-based paint hazards and in accordance with all safe work practice requirements, including hiring the appropriately licensed professional companies.  Property owners are responsible for removing lead-based paint on friction surfaces and making other important repairs during apartment turnover.

Failure to comply with lead-based paint requirements comes with significant financial, legal, and reputational risks. In January 2024, HPD obtained a $150,000 settlement on a property owner for over 1,000 lead-based and non-lead-based paint violations across 99 units in the Bronx and Manhattan. A previous settlement with another property owner resulted in $90,000 in fines and legal oversight for failing to conduct required inspections and maintain accurate records.

Additionally, the Southern District of New York secured million settlement from Lilmor Management, LLC. after over 100 children were found to have elevated lead levels due to neglectful practices. These cases serve as stark reminders of the cost of negligence, Lilmor paid $2.9 million in restitution to affected tenants, with all outstanding violations resolved under the supervision of an independent housing specialist appointed by the Attorney General.

Take Action Now

Applying for lead exemptions through LEOP not only secures your investment but also ensures your properties meet safety standards and protect tenants from potential hazards. HPD remains dedicated to supporting property owners and fostering healthier, safer communities across New York City. For more information on lead exemptions, compliance requirements related to lead-based paint, and safe work practices, please visit Lead-Based Paint – HPD or contact HPD at 212-863-5501.