Montgomery County officials have approved a $1.43 million contract aimed at removing dangerous lead hazards from older homes, a program that could have meaningful implications for communities like Lansdale where the vast majority of housing predates the federal ban on lead-based paint.
The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners, according to MediaNews Group, authorized the roughly three-year agreement between the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services and Genesis Housing Corporation, of Norristown, to administer services under the county’s Lead Hazard Control Program.
The contract runs from March 1 through May 15, 2029 and is funded through a federal Lead Hazard Control Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, per the report.
The program is designed to identify and remediate lead hazards in residential properties while creating “lead-safe housing for Montgomery County children,” according to county documents.
Federal funding to remove lead hazards
The effort stems from a $1.8 million grant awarded to Montgomery County in October 2024 through HUD’s Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes.
Through the program, certified inspectors test homes for lead-based paint and dust contamination. If hazards are identified, certified contractors perform repairs designed to make the home lead-safe. Typical work includes repairing or repainting deteriorating painted surfaces, replacing windows and doors, and sealing exterior components where lead may be present.
Homeowners and landlords can receive up to $20,000 in lead hazard remediation work at no cost, with an additional $5,000 potentially available for broader “healthy homes” improvements such as pest control, installing ventilation fans, replacing carpeting, or making minor structural repairs.
Eligible homes must have been built before 1978, when lead-based paint was banned nationwide, and must house or regularly host a child under age 6 or a pregnant resident. Households must also meet income eligibility requirements.
County officials estimate the funding could help remediate approximately 50 housing units across Montgomery County.
