Health

Lead Hazard Home Repair

If you are worried about lead poisoning in your home, we can help!

Our program pays for FREE inspection of lead hazards and removal of lead hazards (some exclusions may apply).

We can also cover relocation costs if needed. 

Eligibility: You’re eligible to seek funding to eliminate lead-paint hazards if you meet the following:

Ownership

  • A homeowner or landlord in Polk County
  • Mortgage payment, utilities and taxes are all current
  • Home must be constructed prior to 1978

Children Under 6

  • Have a child under the age of 6 living in the home
  • Have a child under the age of 6 visiting your home at least 60 hours during a year

Relocation

  • A homeowner or the tenant must be willing to relocate if the home tests positive for hazardous lead paint, while the repair is performed. Relocation costs will be covered by Polk County Health Department. 

Income                     

  • No higher than 80% of Median Family Income based on total number of people in the family and income.  See the Income Limits posted below:

Contact Us

If you meet the above eligibility requirements, give us a call!

Contact the Polk County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program at (515) 286-2115 or (515) 323-5232 now to ensure your home receives the needed repairs to become a lead-safe-home.

Lead Poisoning Info

Lead-based paint is the primary source of lead poisoning of children in Iowa.  Two-thirds of our community’s housing stock was built before 1978 (when lead based paint was banned).

Even low levels of lead exposure can cause health problems.  This includes attention deficits, behavior problems, learning difficulties, and decreased IQ in young children.

Long-term exposure to lead can damage the brain, kidneys, and bone marrow.  Symptoms of lead poisoning include stomach pain, headaches, vomiting, confusion, muscle weakness, seizures, hair loss, and anemia.  Lead poisoning is 100% preventable. 

Please note, at low levels of lead, children may also not show symptoms. This is why lead testing in the home and in your children is important.

  • Lead Testing: We lead test children five years old and younger on a walk-in basis. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM.