Lead paint in older houses: what to know
Many New Zealand houses painted before 1980 have lead-based paint under the newer coats. On paintwork from before 1945 it is almost certain. Lead dust is toxic, most of all for babies and children. It is safe while the paint is intact. The risk starts when you sand, scrape or blast it.
Does my house have lead paint?
Assume an older house may have lead paint until a test shows it does not. A painter can test the paint, or you can buy a test kit. A lab test of paint flakes gives the most certain answer.
What a lead-safe paint job costs
| What | Guide price |
|---|---|
| Lead paint test | $200 to $500 |
| Extra cost of lead-safe work on a house | $1,000 to $4,000 |
Guide prices from several price guides, checked October 2026.
How painters work safely with lead
- No dry sanding, dry scraping or high-pressure water blasting of lead paint: these spread dust and flakes.
- Wet sanding, or scraping with a sharp tungsten scraper, with drop sheets under the work area.
- Collecting and bagging the paint waste, and cleaning up with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter.
- Keeping children and pets away from the work area until it is clean.
Choosing a painter for an older house
Tell every painter when your house was built and ask how they deal with lead paint. A good quote says how the old paint is removed and how the site is cleaned.
Questions about lead paint
Which NZ houses have lead paint?
Assume any house painted before 1980 may have lead paint. On paintwork from before 1945 it is almost certain. It can sit under newer coats.
How much does a lead paint test cost?
About $200 to $500 from a professional. Home test kits are cheaper but less certain.
Can I water blast a house with lead paint?
No. Water blasting spreads flakes of lead paint into the garden and onto neighbours' sections. Use wet scraping instead.
Checked in October 2026.
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