What XRF is, in 30 seconds.
An XRF lead inspection uses a shielded X-Ray Fluorescence instrument held against painted surfaces to identify the lead content of the paint — non-destructively, surface by surface, with a result on-site. It is the standard testing method for NYC Local Law 1 and Local Law 31, and the protocol of choice for pre-abatement scoping under EPA and HUD frameworks.
Access — the most important variable.
The inspection rate is bounded by access, not by the instrument. A good single-day inspection schedule for a multi-family building looks like: 8–10 occupied units, plus common areas, with a senior inspector working alongside the super for unit access. For occupied units, the super or a manager letting the inspector in is faster than waiting at each door.
Empty or turn-over units inspect in 30–45 minutes. Occupied units typically run 60–90 minutes, depending on furniture obstructions.
Tenant notice.
NYC owners are required to give tenants advance written notice of inspections under LL1. We recommend a minimum of 48 hours' notice — longer in larger portfolios — and a posted notice in the building lobby.
The notice should briefly explain that the inspection is non-destructive, takes about an hour, and that the inspector will photograph paint conditions for the report.
Preparing the unit (or not).
Heavy furniture blocking baseboards, radiators or window assemblies will be moved by the inspector where possible; otherwise the reading is recorded as "not accessible." For the owner's purposes, all major paint surfaces should ultimately be read. Two ways to handle obstructions: (1) ask tenants to move smaller items pre-inspection; (2) schedule a brief return visit to read the obstructed surfaces later.
What the inspector will do.
Calibrate the XRF against a NIST-traceable standard at start and end of shift. Read every painted component — walls, ceilings, doors, jambs, sills, baseboards, radiators, banisters — and record. Photograph each reading location and any deteriorated paint. Collect paint-chip samples where XRF returns inconclusive.
What you receive.
A field-level summary of positive and negative components on the spot. A formal sealed report — with the underlying field log, calibration record, photographs and lab attachments — in 24 to 48 hours. The report is formatted for HPD violation packages, EPA abatement-project files, lender diligence, or whatever audience the engagement was scoped for.
One quiet rule.
Don't paint over surfaces in the week before the inspection. Fresh paint over lead paint still tests as lead positive on XRF and complicates the record. If renovation is planned, the right sequence is to test first, then scope the lead-safe work practices.