Morris Township Announces Lead Inspection Requirements for Rental Properties

Attention Landlords: Compliance with New Jersey Lead Hazard Law Required

Over the past few weeks, Morris Township residents received a letter from the USPS regarding lead inspections. If you do not own a rental property, this letter does not pertain to you and can be disregarded. However, if you are a landlord, please familiarize yourself with the information below.

Key Information for Landlords

New Jersey P.L. 2021, Chapter 182 Compliance:

• All rental dwellings built before 1978 must be inspected for lead hazards.
• Inspections must be conducted every three years or upon tenant turnover.

Inspection Process:

• Visual inspections of painted surfaces will be conducted by the Township of Morris or a certified lead evaluator contractor.
• If lead hazards are found, the owner must remediate through abatement or interim control measures.

Scheduling an Inspection:

• Call 973-326-7390 and speak to an inspector to schedule a lead inspection.

Fees:

• $150 per unit inspection cost
• $25 certificate filing fee
• $20 state fee to fund the "Lead Hazard Control Assistance Act"
• Filing fee and state fee apply even if using your own contractor.

Inspection Details:

• Township inspectors will check for cracked and peeling paint.
• If no hazards are found, a lead-safe certificate valid for three years (or until tenant turnover) will be issued.
• If hazards are present, remediation is required, followed by a reinspection.

Certificate of Habitability (COH):

• A COH will not be issued without a completed lead inspection.

Exemptions:

• Dwellings certified to be free of lead-based paint
• Dwellings built during or after 1978
• Multiple dwellings registered with the DCA for at least 10 years without outstanding lead violations
• Seasonal rental dwellings rented for less than six months

For more details, refer to the original letter or visit the Township of Morris website.