Regional soil contamination context, county extension drop-off offices, and affordable mail-in laboratory options.
Philadelphia has one of the oldest residential housing stocks in the United States, with over 80% of residential structures built prior to the 1978 federal ban on lead paint. Flaking exterior lead paint along roof drip lines and historical automotive emissions have created elevated lead concentrations in residential backyards and community gardens across South, West, and North Philadelphia.
Residents can obtain official soil sample mailing kits directly from the Penn State Extension Philadelphia office or download the Environmental Soil Form online and mail samples directly to the Penn State Analytical Services Lab in University Park for a $30 single-lead analysis.
📍 101 E. Venango St, Suite 100, Philadelphia, PA 19134
📞 Phone: (215) 471-2200
Because soil testing is completed by mail, residents in Philadelphia, PA are not restricted to local providers. You can mail samples directly to accredited university laboratories for $17–$30:
Total Lead by EPA Method 3050B + 6010 • Turnaround: 10-14 business days