This study investigates the natural radioactivity levels in paints, varnishes, sealers, primers, and enamels used in residential buildings in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, addressing a gap in the existing literature on naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) in surface finishing materials.While the contribution of building materials to radiation exposure is well documented, limited data exists on the specific activities of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K in common surface finishes such as paints, varnishes, sealers, primers, and enamels.Thirty-three samples from leading Brazilian manufacturers were analyzed using gamma spectrometry to determine activity concentrationsResults revealed significant variations across material types, with paints exhibiting the highest levels-notably sample T9 with 40.45 Bq kg-1-1 (226Ra), 36.68 Bq kg-1-1 (232Th), and 194.56 Bq kg-1 (40K)-while sealers consistently showed the lowest.Calculated annual EDs for all samples, including the highest at 0.4 mSv y--1 (T9), remained well below the international safety limit of 1 mSv y--1.Importantly, the activities of the majority of radionuclides in the compounds were found to be below their resp. dose limits, confirming compliance with global safety standardsThe calculated radiol. hazard metrics, including annual ED and associated economic costs, highlighted the importance of minimizing overall radiation exposure by prioritizing lower radioactivity finishing materials, especially when combined with other high-activity construction materials.This research establishes the first comprehensive database of radioactivity levels in Brazilian surface finishing materials and offers practical guidance for enhancing building safety standards