Renovation is a top lead-dust risk
This is a valid concern, because renovation and repairs are one of the most common ways lead paint gets disturbed and spread as dust. In older buildings, sanding, scraping, or tearing out painted surfaces can contaminate a home quickly.
Federal rules require that renovation, repair, and painting disturbing lead paint in pre-1978 housing be performed by certified renovators using lead-safe work practices, such as containing the area and cleaning up thoroughly. Casual, dusty demolition of painted surfaces is not safe, especially where children live.
If your landlord is planning or doing work in an older building, you can ask whether lead-safe practices are being used and whether the surfaces were checked. If you see dusty sanding or scraping of old paint without containment or cleanup, that is worth documenting, and children and pregnant tenants should stay clear.
You have a right not to be exposed to a lead hazard created by unsafe work. If you are worried that repairs in your building are spreading lead dust, a free, confidential review can explain your rights and options.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.