Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program

The Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program is a federal funding opportunity administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development to address the ongoing public health risks associated with lead-based paint in residential housing. This program is a central component of HUD’s efforts to protect vulnerable populations, particularly young children, from lead poisoning. Lead exposure remains a significant environmental health issue in the United States, especially in older housing stock, and this program is designed to accelerate remediation efforts in communities with the greatest need. The primary purpose of the program is to maximize the number of children under the age of six who are protected from lead poisoning by funding comprehensive local programs that identify and control lead-based paint hazards. These efforts are focused on privately owned housing, including both rental and owner-occupied units, where lead hazards are most prevalent. The program supports large-scale interventions that aim to reduce exposure risks through inspection, hazard control, and remediation activities. Funding under this opportunity also includes the option for Healthy Homes Supplemental funding, which allows recipients to address additional housing-related health hazards alongside lead remediation. This integrated approach ensures that homes receiving lead hazard treatment also benefit from broader safety and health improvements, such as addressing moisture, ventilation, and other environmental risks. This dual-focus strategy enhances the overall impact of the program by improving living conditions comprehensively. The total estimated funding available for this program is $231,824,135, with approximately 30 awards anticipated. Individual award amounts range from $1,000,000 to $7,850,000, depending on applicant category and eligibility criteria. Different funding tiers are available based on factors such as prior grant history and the level of demonstrated need, including a special category for jurisdictions with the highest lead-based paint abatement needs. Additional supplemental funding may be requested for healthy homes activities, with limits varying based on applicant status. Eligibility for this program is limited to governmental entities, including state governments, county governments, city or township governments, special district governments, and federally recognized Native American tribal governments. Applicants must meet specific requirements, including having an Environmental Protection Agency-authorized lead abatement certification program where applicable. Consortium applications are permitted, provided a lead applicant is designated and all participating entities meet eligibility and compliance requirements. Individuals, foreign entities, and sole proprietorships are not eligible. The application process is expected to open in early June 2026, with submissions due in early August 2026. Applications must be submitted electronically by the deadline. Applicants may need to provide documentation demonstrating eligibility, program design, and compliance with civil rights and regulatory requirements. Additional documentation may be required for consortium applications or for entities that do not directly report to a jurisdiction’s chief executive. Awards are anticipated to be announced in mid-September 2026, with project implementation beginning in early November 2026. HUD will oversee program implementation to ensure compliance with federal requirements and program objectives. This funding opportunity is not identified as recurring and represents a significant federal investment in reducing lead hazards and improving housing health outcomes nationwide.