A new statewide fund will cover half of the cost of removing lead from homes for eligible households and connect families to low-interest loans to cover the other half, as well as certified lead abatement contractors.
Low-income households are eligible for the state’s Lead Safe Home Program, which covers the removal of all lead hazards identified in an inspection report. But households whose incomes exceed the limits of the state program still have trouble affording lead abatement, which costs the average homeowner $20,000, although it may be much more expensive for some.
The Lead Poisoning Prevention Fund, offered by statewide green bank Michigan Saves, is funded by grants from the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services. The new program may be well-timed. Michigan recently passed a law requiring universal lead testing for children, and in 2022, MDHHS lowered its definition for elevated blood levels from 5 micrograms per deciliter to 3.5 µg/dL. The lower threshold has resulted in more children testing positive for high blood lead levels, which could drive demand for lead abatement.
The 50/50 program may be especially critical in Detroit, where 90% of homes were built before 1980. Lead-based paint, the most common source of lead poisoning in children, wasn’t banned in housing until 1978. Childhood lead exposure can cause damage to the brain and nervous system, slowed growth and development, learning and behavior difficulties and speech and hearing problems.
Nishaat Killeen, senior project manager at Michigan Saves, said the Lead Poisoning Prevention Fund is designed to make an intimidating process easier for those with young children.
“If you’re a parent of young children, this might be a little more urgent and might seem a little scary,” she said. “We’re here to help remove what hurdles we can to make the process seem smooth.”
The Michigan Saves loan program for lead was started in 2022, albeit without the 50/50 cost share. It covers the removal of lead-based paint from things like doors, siding, and windows and can fund projects from $2,000 to $100,000. Killeen said the loans could be used for landlord-owned properties, including duplexes and three and four-unit buildings, depending on local rules. Low-income households in rental units may also qualify for lead abatement through the Lead Safe Home program, although the property owner is also expected to pay a portion of the cost.
Those using the program will need a free lead inspection and risk assessment report, which will be used to develop a scope of work with one of Michigan Saves’ authorized contractors. Those using the fund don’t have to address all lead hazards in the home, allowing them to work within their budget.
Enrollees will be matched with a credit union to issue the loan portion of the program, with some interest rates under 8% and loan periods ranging from 1 to 15 years. Killeen said those looking to use the program can apply online for a loan and generally get a decision in an hour.
“With this 50/50 cost share, we’re hoping that more hazards get addressed in homes and more folks feel like they can tackle this issue,” she said.Those looking to learn more about the program can visit www.michigansaves.org/leadfund, email info@michigansaves.org, or call 517-484-6474.