According to HUD estimates, how many homes contain lead-based paint?

According to HUD estimates, how many homes contain lead-based paint?

• A. 6.4 million
• B. 64 million
• C. 16 million
• D. 100 million

Answer: (B)

Lead-based paint was common in homes before 1978, so there are many older houses that could contain it. HUD estimates about 64 million housing units contain lead-based paint. This large number helps explain why lead hazards in housing are such a major public health concern and why inspectors routinely focus on properties built before 1978 for potential lead-based paint hazards. The other figures don’t align with the scale of the pre-1978 housing stock or with the known prevalence of lead paint, so this estimate best reflects the potential scope.

Lead-based paint was common in homes before 1978, so there are many older houses that could contain it. HUD estimates about 64 million housing units contain lead-based paint. This large number helps explain why lead hazards in housing are such a major public health concern and why inspectors routinely focus on properties built before 1978 for potential lead-based paint hazards. The other figures don’t align with the scale of the pre-1978 housing stock or with the known prevalence of lead paint, so this estimate best reflects the potential scope.