Lead Hazard Reduction Program
Blood Testing
After reviewing eligibility, we will refer you to our health partner (El Rio Community Health Center) to get children under age six blood tested. The CDC uses a blood lead reference value of 3.5 μg/dL (µg/dL) to identify elevated levels of lead. If positive, El Rio will provide health guidance.
Inspection and Assessment
A state-certified lead inspector will conduct a Lead Inspection Risk Assessment (LIRA) to determine the presence and location of lead hazards. The report will include recommendations for abatement (long-term solutions) and interim controls (short-term measures) to address identified hazards.
Lead Hazard Removal
Our Residential Rehabilitation Program Specialists will create a scope of work to eliminate lead from your property and address additional health and safety concerns. We will work with city-approved licensed contactors to remove and replace lead hazards following strict safety protocols.
The Process
1
First step is to apply at Neighborly, our online application portal! If you need help finishing your application, our eligibility specialist can answer questions or help you apply on the phone, over email, or in person. When reviewing your application we will conduct additional documentation.
2
If approved, we will refer you to our partner clinic, El Rio Health Center, to blood test children under six years old and order a Lead Inspection Risk Assessment (LIRA). If the LIRA comes back positive, you are enrolled in the program.
3
Depending on how many projects we are working on, there may be a waitlist. Once assigned, we will inspect the home and determine the scope of work. If we have additional funding, we may also be able to complete other health and safety improvements, such as installing a new roof, HVAC, electrical upgrades, and more.
4
After determining the scope, we must submit it the project for environmental review-- this can take a while if the home is located in a historic area.
5
Next, we will release a bid to contractors. After a contractor is selected, we create a timeline for you-- the project might not be able to start right away if certain items, like windows, need to be ordered.
6
Construction begins! Sometimes this happens in two phases if one contractor is completing the lead removal and another is completing additional home improvements. If extensive work is being completed inside the home, we may need to temporarily relocate you.
7
After the work is complete we will test your home again for lead to ensure the space is safe. Success!