Lead in buildings
Lead was used in Austria well into the 20th century in water pipes, paints, gaskets and solder joints. Lead pipes are particularly widespread in older buildings (pre-1945). But lead-containing paints and materials can also be found in post-war buildings.
Lead is a neurotoxin and particularly dangerous for children: it impairs neurological development, can cause learning difficulties and damages the kidneys and blood formation. There is no safe threshold for lead exposure in children.
Where is lead found in Austrian buildings?
- Water pipes: Lead pipes in buildings pre-1945, in some cases up to the 1960s
- Solder joints: Lead-containing solder on copper pipes
- Paints and coatings: White lead and red lead on windows, doors and railings
- Gutters and cladding: Lead sheeting on chimneys and junctions
- Window putty: Older putty often contains lead compounds
- Ceramic glazes: Old tiles and faience can have lead-containing glazes
How we test for lead
pXRF screening on site
With our portable X-ray fluorescence device (pXRF) we can detect lead in seconds directly on the material — non-destructively, without taking a sample. The method shows immediately whether and how much lead is present in paints, pipes, solder joints or other materials.
Laboratory analysis
For water samples, or when a quantitative analysis to a recognised standard is required, we send samples to a laboratory accredited to ISO/IEC 17025. Determination is carried out by ICP-MS (mass spectrometry) — one of the most sensitive methods for trace metals.
Report and recommendation
You receive a clear report with risk assessment: which materials are affected, how urgently action is needed, and which measures make sense (replacement, remediation, monitoring).
Costs
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Heavy metals in water (lead, copper, cadmium, chromium, arsenic, nickel, zinc) | €19 |
| Lead / heavy metals in material (paint, plaster, solder joints) | €49 |
| Site inspection flat fee (pXRF on-site included) | €290 |
| Video initial consultation | free |
The water price covers the full elemental heavy-metal panel on a single sample — not per element. The pXRF screening is already included in the site inspection flat fee.
Frequently asked questions about lead testing
Lead pipes are grey, soft and can be easily scratched with a knife. They are found mainly in buildings built before 1945. With portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) we detect lead in seconds directly on the pipe — non-destructively.
Yes. The limit value in Austria is 10 µg/l (Drinking Water Ordinance). Lead is particularly dangerous for children as it impairs neurological development. Even low concentrations can be harmful.
A water sample for lead costs €19 — and simultaneously analyses the full elemental heavy-metal panel (cadmium, chromium, arsenic, nickel, copper, zinc, etc.). A material sample (paint, plaster, solder joints) costs €49 per sample (ICP-MS). XRF screening on site is included in the site inspection flat fee (from €290). In the free initial consultation we clarify the best approach.
For intact surfaces, painting over can be a short-term solution. Problems arise when paint flakes, is sanded or during renovation — then lead particles are released. Lead content should definitely be checked before any renovation work.
What does lead remediation cost?
Typical remediation costs (indicative figures)
- Replace lead pipes (flat)€1,000–€4,000
- Replace lead pipes (house)€3,000–€10,000
- Overcoat/encapsulate lead paintfrom €500
- Remove lead paint€1,000–€5,000
A lead test from €19 (water) or €49 (material) gives you clarity — particularly important where children are present.
After remediation we offer a verification measurement to ensure that no lead contamination remains. More on renovation monitoring →