If you own an older home in Houston, you may qualify for free help removing dangerous lead paint hazards. The Houston Health Department has launched a program targeting lead paint risks in homes built before 1978 — at no cost to eligible homeowners.
This initiative comes as health officials continue to warn about the dangers of lead exposure, especially for young children. Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint on walls, windows, doors, and trim. When this paint chips, peels, or creates dust during renovation, it can pose serious health risks to families living inside.
Lead paint was banned for residential use in 1978, but millions of American homes still contain it. In Texas alone, a significant portion of the housing stock predates the ban. Houston's older neighborhoods are particularly affected, with many homes built in the 1950s and 1960s when lead paint was commonly used.
Not sure if your home is affected?
The DIY Lead Paint Chip Kit gives you certified, accredited-lab results in days — no inspector needed. Simple DIY sampling, mailed to a lab, clear results you can trust.
Identify lead paint before you renovate → — $35Why Lead Paint Is Still a Problem in 2026
Many homeowners assume lead paint is only a concern in visibly deteriorating homes. However, lead paint can be hidden under layers of newer paint. It becomes dangerous when disturbed — during renovations, repairs, or simply when old paint starts to break down over time.
The EPA warns that even small amounts of lead dust can be harmful. Children under six years old are most vulnerable because their growing bodies absorb lead more easily. Lead exposure can affect brain development, cause learning difficulties, and create behavioral problems. Adults exposed to lead may experience high blood pressure, kidney damage, and other health issues.
Who Qualifies for Houston's Free Program
The Houston Health Department program is designed to help homeowners who might not otherwise afford professional lead hazard remediation. While specific eligibility requirements apply, the program generally targets:
- Homes built before 1978
- Households with children under six years old or pregnant women
- Homeowners meeting certain income guidelines
Eligible homeowners can receive professional inspection, testing, and remediation services at no out-of-pocket cost. This can include paint stabilization, window replacement, and other measures to control lead hazards.
What Houston Homeowners Should Do Now
Whether or not you qualify for the city's free program, knowing if your home contains lead paint is the critical first step. Here are actions every owner of a pre-1978 home should consider:
- Test before you renovate: Any work that disturbs painted surfaces can release lead dust. Test painted areas before sanding, scraping, or demolishing.
- Check window sills and doors: These high-friction areas often have the most paint wear and dust buildup.
- Watch for chipping or peeling paint: Deteriorating paint is a warning sign that requires immediate attention.
- Keep surfaces clean: Regular wet mopping and wiping can reduce lead dust accumulation.
Texas Leads the Nation in Older Housing Stock
Texas has one of the largest inventories of pre-1978 homes in the country. Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and other major cities all have neighborhoods where lead paint is common. The state's hot, humid climate can accelerate paint deterioration, making regular inspection especially important for Texas homeowners.
Programs like Houston's free lead hazard initiative represent important public health investments. However, limited funding means not everyone will qualify. For homeowners who fall outside the eligibility criteria, affordable DIY testing provides a practical alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my home has lead paint?
Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint. The only way to know for certain is to test. You can collect a small paint chip sample and send it to a certified lab for analysis. Results typically come back within a few days and will tell you definitively whether lead is present.
Is lead paint dangerous if it is not peeling?
Lead paint in good condition is generally less hazardous than deteriorating paint. However, it can still create lead dust when surfaces rub together — like when windows open and close. Any renovation work that disturbs the paint can also release dangerous dust. Testing helps you understand the risk before problems develop.
What should I do if I find lead paint in my home?
Do not attempt to remove lead paint yourself by sanding or scraping, as this creates hazardous dust. Options include covering the lead paint with encapsulant, replacing affected components like windows or doors, or hiring a certified lead abatement contractor. Your local health department may have resources to help.
If you own a home built before 1978 in Houston or anywhere in Texas, testing for lead paint is an important step in protecting your family. The MycoTest DIY Lead Paint Chip Kit lets you collect a simple sample at home and receive certified lab results — giving you the answers you need to make informed decisions about your property.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. MycoTest DIY kits are screening tools. For confirmed contamination, consult a certified environmental professional.
