Lead Renovation, Repair & Paint Rule

 

Lead Renovation, Repair & Paint Rule

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting rule governing the work of professional remodelers in homes where there is lead-based paint took effect April 22, 2010. Various regional offices of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have begun inspections and enforcement actions on the Lead: Renovation, Repair, and Painting rule. 
 
Remodelers working in pre-1978 homes must follow the rule or risk fines and litigation for regulation violations.
 
The rule addresses remodeling and renovation projects disturbing more than six square feet of potentially contaminated painted surfaces for all residential and multifamily structures built prior to 1978. It requires a cleaning inspection after the work is completed and grants the remodeler flexibility in determining the size of the work area, which can reduce the size of the area subject to containment. The EPA rule also lists prohibited work practices including open-torch burning and using high-heat guns and high-speed equipment such as grinders and sanders unless equipped with a HEPA filter. Additionally, the rule establishes required lead-safe work practices, including posting warning signs for occupants and visitors; using disposable plastic drop cloths; cleaning the work area with HEPA vacuuming and wet washing; and individual certification through a training course. The full rule and brochures for consumers and renovators can be downloaded from the EPA’s Web site.
 
A 2006 NAHB study on lead-safe work practices showed that a home was better off after a remodel than before, as long as the work was performed by trained remodelers who clean the work area with HEPA-equipped vacuums, wet washing and disposable drop cloths.
 
Click Here to view a summary of the Lead Rule.
Click Here to view HBASE Member Firms Certified with EPA.
 
Be aware and be ready. Start by looking over these resources from the NAHB.
Sample Contract Language for Lead Paint Renovation - NAHB Login Information Required
Renovate Right - This pamphlet has been updated by the EPA in July, 2011. If you are still referencing the original pamphlet from April, 2010, please review the updated version.