Learn more about the Renovation Repair & Painting Rule

EPA Will Strictly Enforce New Lead Paint Regulations

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has created a new rule called the Renovation Repair & Painting Rule which became effective in April 2010. This new rule states that any contractor whether it’d be a painter, plumber, remodeler or electrician, who disturbs a minimum of six square feet of paint while working in a home built before 1978 or even a school or daycare center must be Lead-Safe Certified prior to doing the work.

Those contractors who are not certified with the proper training will put the health of themselves, their employees and even the customers at risk, which may come to lawsuits and sever penalties for the contractor. The fine can be $37,500 per violation, up to five years in prison and a felony conviction. Along with the firm certification, at least one employee will also need to be certified as a Certified Renovator and if you are working in HUD assisted properties then everyone must be RRP certified.

Contractors are warned that over the next year, the EPA will be strictly enforcing the new rule and following through with the penalties as necessary. Contractors have until October 1, 2010 to register for a Lead RRP certification training course. After that the EPA will be looking for ones who are not compliant with the rule.

So why is this important? Lead is a toxic metal that was used primarily before 1978 in products found in and around most homes. Lead may cause behavioral problems and learning disabilities and also seizures and even as severe as death. The elderly and children six years old and under are most at risk.

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