Frequently Asked Questions

Where does lead come from?
Lead is a natural element found in the form of an ore called galena.

What is lead poisoning?
Lead poisoning means you have too much lead in your body. Lead can be found in your blood, soft tissues and in your bones. If lead levels in the blood stream are high, there can be serious health risks.

Where can I learn more about lead hazards?
The Syracuse Lead Program offers a 1-Day Lead-Safe Work Practices Training for more information on reducing lead hazards in a safe manner.   

How long has the Syracuse Lead Program been around?
The Syracuse Lead Program began in 1996 and since that time has reduced lead hazards in over 1,400 units in the City of Syracuse and assisted over 1,200 children under six (six) years old.

How much money can I receive for lead hazard reduction from the Syracuse Lead Program if I qualify?
An eligible one (1) unit property can receive a maximum three (3) year deferred loan up to $15,000 for lead hazard risk reduction work. An eligible two, three or four (2, 3, or 4) unit property can receive a maximum three (3) year deferred loan up to $20,000 for lead hazard risk reduction work.

What happens at the inspection?
Inspectors will take soil and dust wipe samples and check all painted surfaces (interior and exterior) at the property to determine if there are lead paint hazards. The inspection lasts about one (1) hour.

What is a deferred loan?
The money borrowed will not need to be paid back as long as the property owner does not sell the house for three (3) years. If the house is sold before the three (3) years, the full amount of the loan would need to be paid back to the Lead Program.

What if the cost of the work to be done at my property is more than the maximum money allotted?
If there is an overage, it must be paid by the property owner at the closing, if he or she wants to continue with the program. For example, if the cost estimate for a one (1) unit property comes to $16,500, the homeowner would be required to pay $1,500 at the closing if he or she wanted to continue with the program.

If there is an overage, can I just have some of the work done?
No. All lead hazards listed on the lead risk assessment are required to be addressed.

If my job costs comes in lower than the maximum amount allotted for my property, can I use money for other repairs?
No. The City of Syracuse Lead Program only covers lead hazards.

Can I do the lead work myself or hire a contractor to do the work? 
No. Work must be done by City Of Syracuse Lead Program approved contractors.  

Is there lead in my home?
If your house was built prior to 1978, you probably have some lead in your home.

What causes lead poisoning in children?
The most common cause is lead-based paint!

Can my child get poisoned even if he/she doesn’t actually eat paint chips?
Yes, most cases of childhood lead poisoning are caused by lead dust as a result of hand-to-mouth contact. If floors have dust from old painted walls, windows, doors, etc, a baby could breathe in the lead dust or suck on lead-dusted hands and toys.

How can you tell if a child is lead poisoned? Are there any symptoms?
You can’t tell!

Lead poisoning is not like a child having the flu, where you can look at them and know they are sick.  A healthy child and a lead poisoned child may look and act the same way!  The only way to know for sure if a child is poisoned is a blood lead test.  A simple lead test at your family physician or at a local health center can tell if your child has dangerous lead levels in their blood.  

What are the effects of lead poisoning?
The effects of lead poisoning are irreversible and may include a lower IQ, kidney damage, hearing loss, growth problems, anemia and behavioral problems.

How can I keep my family lead smart?
• Keep children away from peeling paint!
• Damp mop floors and damp wipe surfaces twice a week to reduce lead dust!
• Wash your child’s hands and toys often to remove lead dust and/or dirt!
• Use cold tap water, not hot, for infant formula & cooking!
• Let the water run for at least one minute before using to flush out the pipes!
• Feed children healthy meals/snacks – a child with an empty stomach will absorb more lead!

What does a healthy diet include?
Foods high in iron, calcium and vitamin C can help prevent lead poisoning! Keep fast food to a minimum!
Foods high in iron, calcium & vitamin C include… 
• Beans
• Peas
• Lean beef & pork
• Chicken/turkey
• Spinach/collard greens
• Whole grains
• Eggs
• Tuna
• Cheese
• Milk
• Yogurt
• Oranges
• Tomatoes