What is Lead?

Lead is a naturally occurring element found in the earth’s crust. While it has some industrial uses, it can be toxic to humans and animals, causing significant health effects. Exposure to lead in Denver homes and buildings often comes from old paint, plumbing, and contaminated soil.

Where is Lead Found?

• Air, soil, water, and inside homes
• Past use of lead-based paints in homes built before 1978
• Ceramics, pipes, plumbing, and solders
• Old gasoline residues and industrial facilities
• Batteries, ammunition, cosmetics, and household products

In Colorado, many older homes still contain lead-based paint or pipes, which can contaminate dust, soil, and drinking water. Regulatory standards have helped minimize exposure, but testing remains critical.

What are the Health Effects of Lead?

Children

• Permanent brain and nervous system damage
• Learning and behavior problems, lower IQ, hearing loss
• Slowed growth and anemia
• In severe cases: seizures, coma, or death

Pregnant Women

• Miscarriage
• Reduced fetal growth and premature birth
• Lead stored in bones can pass through the placenta

Adults

• Nervous system effects
• Cardiovascular issues like high blood pressure
• Decreased kidney function
• Reproductive issues in both men and women

Why Lead Testing Matters in Denver

Homes in Denver, Boulder, Lakewood, Aurora, and other Front Range cities often have older construction materials that may contain lead. Professional lead testing ensures your family is not exposed to harmful lead dust, paint, or contaminated water.

Our Lead Testing Services

• Certified lead-based paint inspections
• Water testing for lead contamination
• Soil sampling in high-risk areas
• Dust wipe testing to detect invisible exposure
• Comprehensive reports with remediation recommendations

Safe Investment Home Inspections has been serving Colorado since 2012. As Certified Master Inspectors, we combine our lead testing services with full home, commercial, radon, mold, and sewer inspections for complete protection.