Winnebago County Public Health Lead-Safe Homes Program helps keep kids safe from the dangers of lead poisoning by providing the safe removal of lead from qualified homes and rental properties.
What is lead?
Lead, a naturally occurring metal, is abundantly found throughout the Earth. It has been used in a wide variety of products including gasoline, paint, plumbing pipes, ceramics, solders, batteries, and even cosmetics. Because it is so unsafe, the US banned lead from being used in paint in 1978. The only way to know if your child has lead in their blood is by getting them screened.
Why is lead bad?
Lead can damage the brain and body, causing a range of health issues including behavioral problems, learning disabilities, seizures and death.
Dust from old chipping and peeling paint is the main cause of lead poisoning in kids in Winnebago County. The dust is dangerous because you can't see it. It can stick to hands and toys, finding a way into kids' mouths and harming their growing bodies and brains.
What homes and rental properties are eligible for the Lead-Safe Homes Program?
Apply for the program if:
- Children or pregnant women live in or regularly visit the home and are on Medicaid or BadgerCare Plus.
- The home or rental property was built before 1978.
- The property is insured and taxes are up to date.
Why should I apply?
- Homeowners: The program covers up to 100% of the costs to make your home lead-safe.
- Landlords: The program covers between 85 - 100% of the costs to make your rental properties lead-safe.
- Renters: There is no cost to you. Encourage your landlord to apply today!
Costs are subject to approval.
What type of work does the program cover?
- Siding
- Windows
- Doors
- Porches
- Garages & Sheds
- Fences
- Gutter & Exteriors
- Soil
- Other identified lead hazard repairs
How do I apply for the program?
- If you are a homeowner, complete this application.
- If you are a tenant of a rental property, complete this application.
- If you own a rental property, complete this application.
Program Process:
- Application: Necessary paperwork completed before inspection is scheduled.
- Risk Assessment: Home inspected for lead hazards.
- Inspection Results: Findings discussed with owner. Program staff creates work plan.
- Contractor Walk-Thru: Team of contractors visit property to prepare estimates of work.
- Contract Signing: Owner comes in to sign necessary paperwork to begin work.
- Relocation Meeting (If Necessary): Staff meets with tenant to sign paperwork for temporary hotel and meal card if necessary.
- Start of Work: Contractors begin work to remove lead hazards.
- Clearance/Completion: Staff takes dust wipes inside to assure work meets lead-safe standards.
Questions?
If you have questions about this program or need assistance completing an application, please call Winnebago County Public Health at 920-232-3000 or email health@winnebagocountywi.gov.
Additional Resources:
If you do not qualify for the Lead-Safe Homes Program, but you would like a lead hazard risk assessment, you can find a certified inspector or risk assessor on the United States Environmental Protection Agency's website or call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD. Ask your landlord to have your home or apartment tested if you rent. To find out if you have lead in your drinking water, contact your water company and ask about testing.
- Lead Safe Wisconsin
- Lead Information from the CDC
- EPA
- Lead in Drinking Water
- Winnebago County Lead Safe Homes Program Checklist
- Winnebago County Lead Safe Homes Program Flyer:
English: PDF / PNG
Spanish: PDF / PNG
Lead-Safe Homes Contractors:If you provide lead risk assessments or lead abatement services, and would like to be part of the Winnebago County Lead-Safe Homes Program, please CLICK HERE for more information and to get started.
