Whether from old buildings being renovated or lead in the water supply or recycling batteries, the potential for lead poisoning is real. Fort Worth property management companies need to be conscientiously concerned about the potential lead in rentals units that would negative health effects on tenants. Trey Brown is a metals toxicologist and faculty associate at the University of Texas at Arlington. He said  that, “childhood lead poisoning in the #1 environmental contaminant-driven disease in the country, and nobody knows this.” Responsible property management in Fort Worth TX requires strict attention to this environmental problem when renovating older rental properties.

Many homes that were built before 1978 may still have lead base paint on the walls. If the exterior of a home had lead based paint then there is also the possibility of the ground around the home having lead contamination. Lead can also be in the water and cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled. Older pipes were often lead or the soldering was lead.

Some tips for Fort Worth property management companies for lead paint in your rental unit:

–It is best to work with one room or area at a time. With heavy mil plastic sheets seal off doorways, vents, and any air ducts to prevent contaminated dust getting all over the house.

–If paint isn’t peeling, you can simply repaint over the lead based paint and “seal” the paint from being exposed. This isn’t a time to skrimp on paint price. Find a quality paint that will last and not just peel off in short period of time. The goal is to completely seal the old paint from exposure.

–If paint is peeling and needs to be removed, it may be best to hire a professional with experience with lead removal.

Choosing to remove lead paint means you need to take extra precautions to keep lead dust contained and keep your exposure at a minimum. Wear disposable work clothes, hair coverings, and gloves. Always use goggles and respirators.

Caring property management companies in Fort Worth TX know the condition of their rental units and the hazards that may need to be addressed with those properties. Where lead poisoning is something that can be prevented with proper care, let’s all work together in the goal to eliminate this hazard.