Millburn landlords with older rental properties now have a new requirement to keep up with — and ignoring it could mean costly fines.

The township has hired LEW Environmental Services to handle mandatory lead paint inspections required for rental homes built before 1978 under New Jersey’s Lead Safe Certification Law.

The Township Committee approved the contract June 18, bringing Millburn into compliance with the state law, which requires inspections every three years or whenever a new tenant moves in.

Property owners who fail to comply can face fines of up to $1,000 per week.

The inspections are designed to identify lead hazards in older homes, where peeling paint, dust and other exposure risks can be especially dangerous for young children.

LEW Environmental is a state-certified lead evaluation contractor that provides lead testing, risk assessments and abatement services for municipalities across New Jersey.

Owners of homes built in 1978 or later, seasonal rentals under six months and properties with valid lead-free certifications are exempt.

The township has not released the cost of the contract or Millburn-specific inspection fees.

Landlords with questions can contact the township’s construction office. The next Township Committee meeting is Tuesday, July 14, at 7 p.m. at the Millburn Education Center, 434 Millburn Ave.