where to get lead paint chip tested?

[Nosy]

I want to get some paint tested, but I don't want to use the at home kit because they aren't reliable and I don't want to hire someone to come into the house. I read that you can send paint chips off to be tested for $25-50 but I can't figure out where to do so. We're in California, if it matters. Anyone know?

[staceychev]

Home Depot has send-away kits that you can buy, I think--you basically put the chip in a vial and mail it off to a lab. Or, you can ask your health department if they have them available.

Consumer Reports' website also rates instant-read home tests (comparing them to labs), if you have a subscription to the site.

[trd0714]

yes, consumer reports rates a brand called homax as the best
we just used it today
can pick it up at a hardware store - easy to use