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Stockton adopts state-mandated lead-inspection rules for rental units; landlords to pay inspection costs
Summary
Stockton Borough Council on March 26 adopted Ordinance 2026-03 requiring periodic lead-based paint inspections for rental units built before 1978; the borough will contract certified inspectors while inspection costs and most fees fall to property owners, and lead-safe certifications last three years.
Stockton Borough Council adopted Ordinance 2026-03 on March 26 to implement state-mandated lead-based paint inspections for rental dwelling units.
Under the ordinance, rental units constructed before 1978 must receive a periodic inspection for lead-based paint hazards: initial inspections are required at tenant turnover or within three years of the ordinance’s effective date, and thereafter at least once every three years or at tenant turnover, unless a valid lead-safe certification remains in effect. Borough Attorney Lisa Maddox told the public the borough will designate a lead evaluation contractor authorized to conduct inspections, or owners may hire their own certified inspector; the contractor will perform visual assessments and dust wipe sampling where required under state rules.
The ordinance makes the unit owner responsible for scheduling and paying inspection fees directly to the contractor. It also requires a $20-per-unit fee remitted to the borough’s inspection contractor in addition to inspection costs, and specifies penalties for noncompliance: after a 30-day cure period, fines up to $1,000 per week may be imposed until inspection or remediation work is initiated.
Councilmembers Brown, Gilinger and Fisher voiced support, citing public-health benefits and the borough’s many older buildings. Resident John McNeill asked whether the ordinance covers PFAS in water; Mayor Lipsen said water-quality issues fall under the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and referred the matter to the borough’s water operator for follow-up. Several residents said mailing landlords and outreach have helped inform property owners about requirements. Mann moved adoption; Brown seconded. Roll call: Brown, Fisher, Gilinger, Mann and Meltzer — Ayes 5, Nays 0.
The ordinance references P.L. 2021, c.182 as amended by P.L. 2024, c.74 (N.J.S.A. 52:27D-437.16 et seq.) and implementing regulations at N.J.A.C. 5:28A.
