Lead Paint Abatement/Rehab Loans

Merrimack Valley Housing Partnership can help homeowners and investors remove lead paint by utilizing the MassHousing Get the Lead Out Program. This program is available to eligible properties in all cities and towns throughout Massachusetts.

Why is Lead Paint Dangerous?

Lead is a poison and is especially harmful to children under age 6. It can harm a child’s brain, kidney, and nervous system. It can permanently damage hearing and speech and cause behavioral and developmental problems.

Why be concerned?

Lead was widely added to paint in buildings built before 1978. It was banned in 1978. Over time, paint deteriorates and releases dangerous lead dust.

How can MassHousing’s Get the Lead Out Program help?

The program offers 0% interest loans to de-lead owner-occupied properties. The loan is paid off when the owner sells, transfers, or refinances the property.

The interest rate for investors is 3%, and the loan is amortized over 5 to 15 years, depending on the amount borrowed. 

What are the income qualifications?

To be eligible, the maximum annual income for households in Lowell is $136,900 for 1–2 person households and $157,400 for households of 3 or more. These income limits are effective May 5, 2025. Please note that this program is available statewide, and income limits vary by city or town.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the Merrimack Valley Housing Partnership at (978) 459-8490 or mvhp@mvhp.org.

Resources for Homeowners

Learn more about lead paint and deleading: https://www.mass.gov/topics/lead-and-radon-safety

Has your home been previously lead inspected? Find out here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/find-your-homes-lead-history

MassHousing – Get The Lead Out https://www.masshousing.com/home-ownership/homeowners/get-the-lead-out

State Approved Lead Inspectors: https://www.mass.gov/doc/licensed-private-lead-inspector-list/download

State-Approved Deleading Contractors: https://www.mass.gov/doc/find-a-licensed-deleading-contractor/download