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Last verified: · Confidence: medium
What lead paint rules apply to landlords in Rochester?
Short answer
Pre-1980 rentals in Lead High-Risk Area: active C of O by 10/1/2026, then 3-year inspections with dust-wipe testing
When: Every 3 years from the certificate of occupancy issue date; first deadline 2026-10-01
Affected pre-1980 rentals in Rochester's Lead High-Risk Area must have an active C of O by October 1, 2026, and then complete a C of O inspection every three years including lead dust-wipe testing of every unit.
"All impacted properties are now required to complete a C of O inspection every three years, including proactive lead dust wipe testing for every unit. All impacted properties must have an active C of O in place by 10/1/2026" cityofrochester.gov
"The renewable Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) will now double as the Lead Safety Certificate that is required by PHL 1377" cityofrochester.gov
Pre-1980 rentals in Lead High-Risk Area: active C of O by 10/1/2026, then 3-year inspections with dust-wipe testing Verified
Deadline: Every 3 years from the certificate of occupancy issue date; first deadline 2026-10-01
Affected pre-1980 rentals in Rochester's Lead High-Risk Area must have an active C of O by October 1, 2026, and then complete a C of O inspection every three years including lead dust-wipe testing of every unit.
Who it covers: Properties built before 1980, inside the City's Lead Paint High-Risk Area, with at least one rental unit. The C of O doubles as the NYS Lead Safety Certificate (PHL 1377); C of O/Building Owner Registry info doubles as the state Rental Registry submission.
"All impacted properties are now required to complete a C of O inspection every three years, including proactive lead dust wipe testing for every unit. All impacted properties must have an active C of O in place by 10/1/2026" cityofrochester.gov
"The renewable Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) will now double as the Lead Safety Certificate that is required by PHL 1377" cityofrochester.gov
Notes: Implements NYS Public Health Law §1377 locally (see ny/state.json lead-rental-registry rule). Two-unit rentals there needed a C of O issued on or after 10/1/2023. Conflict between city pages: the older C of O table still lists owner-occupied 1-2 family homes as exempt, while this 2026 page says owner-occupied two-unit properties must now complete the C of O process. Confirm with the City of Rochester.
Last verified 2026-10-20 · Confidence: medium · Status: verified · Report a correction