Hach Kit Method There are simple, cheap qualitative test kits out there that might be within reach of individuals with low a budget. The HACH kits can be portable and used in field water quality studies. The HACH use a colorimetric reaction, the more lead, the darker the color, and the higher the reading.
The HACH method can be used for testing other parameters with just the purchase a some different reagents.
If the units are too pricey, there might be grant money available to help you.
HACH company
HACH Educator Site