The Stand
Have you heard the sounds of remodeling in your neighborhood? Those sounds might be coming from work funded by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. Onondaga County and the City of Syracuse have been awarded funding to reduce lead paint hazards in homes. Lead hazards are often found in homes built before 1978 on windows, doors, wood siding and porches.
Who can receive the grants?
Applicants who meet all the following requirements may be eligible:*
- Those who own or rent a property in Onondaga County built before 1978
- A family that meets the income guidelines and who has a child under the age of six living in their home or visiting often
Homeowners who may quality:
- Must have a current homeowner’s insurance policy
- Must comply with flood zone requirements
- Must be current with all property taxes, mortgages, and water bills
What types of work can be done?
Repairs are determined after a lead paint inspection of your home is done. A housing inspector will do the inspection. An independent contractor (hired by the grant program) will complete the repairs. Typical lead paint hazard repairs may include:
- Window and door replacement
- Exterior siding replaced
- Repainting
- Porch work
How can I find out more about the home repair grants?
Contact the lead paint hazard repair grant programs in our area. The two programs in our area are: Onondaga County Community Development Office at 435-3558 and City of Syracuse NBD Lead Program at 448-8710.
Why is Lead paint and lead dust a hazard?
Lead is a poison. Lead dust (which you can not see) is created when lead paint is disturbed from sanding or scraping painted surfaces, sweeping or vacuuming loose paint chips and opening and closing windows or doors that are painted with lead paint. Young children and pregnant women are especially at risk for lead poisoning. If lead gets into a child’s body, it may cause learning, behavioral and medical problems.
How do I know if my children are safe?
If you are not eligible for one of these grant programs, you may still qualify for a free home lead paint inspection. If you live in a rental property in the City of Syracuse, call to see if you qualify. Let’s treat homes not children. Call the Onondaga County Health Department at 435-3271.
Lead poisoning can be prevented … call today to find out more
*Fair Housing Laws prohibit discrimination in the sale or rental of housing based upon race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, handicapped or familial status, or natural origin.
— Submitted by the Onondaga County Health Department
