Lead Exposure Risk Assessment

How long is the Lead Exposure Risk Assessment (CREP) valid?

The validity period of the CREP varies depending on the results of the assessment. 

• If no traces of lead are detected, the report remains valid indefinitely. 
• However, if lead is present at concentrations exceeding 1 mg/cm², the inspection report is valid for only one year in the event of a sale. After this period, a new inspection must be conducted to verify the condition of the coatings.

What should you do if you find lead?

If the CREP report indicates the presence of lead at concentrations exceeding the threshold of 1 mg/cm², it is mandatory to have the necessary repairs completed before putting your home up for sale. The owner is responsible for carrying out this work prior to the sale. However, if the property is purchased with defects known to the buyer, the obligation to perform the work is then transferred to the buyer.

Two types of work can be performed:

• Palliative measures: These involve containing lead-based finishes, for example by installing vinyl wallpaper, drywall, wainscoting, or a drop ceiling. These solutions temporarily eliminate the risk of exposure without removing the lead.

Permanent Remediation: These measures aim to completely eliminate lead by replacing damaged components (baseboards, doors, windows) or by stripping the surfaces. These are the only measures that guarantee the complete removal of lead.

What are the penalties for noncompliance?

As a seller, if you fail to provide the lead inspection report to the buyer or include incorrect information in the sales listing, you may be held liable. In this case, the buyer has several options:

• Legal Remedies: The buyer may file a lawsuit to seek annulment of the sale or to claim damages.
• Reporting to the DGCCRF: The purchaser may also report the violation to the fraud division of the General Directorate for Competition, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control (DGCCRF).

As a result, the DGCCRF may impose a fine of up to €300,000 and a prison sentence of two years. In addition, hiring an uncertified inspector may result in a fine of €1,500, which doubles in the event of a repeat offense (€3,000).

How can our CENTURY 21 Auteuil and Auteuil Seine offices assist you?

Our CENTURY 21 Auteuil Immobilier and CENTURY 21 Auteuil Seine offices are here to assist you with all your real estate needs, including the completion of mandatory inspections such as the CREP. Our team of certified professionals will help you understand the results of the inspection and advise you on the steps to take if lead is detected.

Our team is here to answer any questions you may have about your real estate projects—whether you’re selling, buying, or managing rental properties. Please feel free to contact our two real estate agencies, CENTURY 21 Auteuil Immobilier and CENTURY 21 Auteuil Seine, by phone at 01 42 15 16 21 or 01 56 07 16 21, or by email: auteuil@century21.fr or auteuilseine@century21.fr.