Lead Based Paint Renovations & Repairs

April 2010 brings in a new slate of regulations for contractors who get paid for any renovations or repairs on older homes or residential/institutional facilities where children might be present. Both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Housing & Urban Development (HUD) have launched a massive educational and compliance compaign addressing the issue of disturbing lead based paint in renovations of properties that were built prior to 1978.

This new layer of regulations for renovations in older properties is because lead based paint dust is extremely toxic to young children. The old thinking was lead based paint was dangerous because children would nibble on the old sweet taasting paint. Now they know the paint dust is infinitely more dangerous because is inhalable, nearly invisible, and it will settle everywhere.

Any homeowner or building manager of an older property who is planning to hire a contractor to do renovations where over six square feet of surface area will be disturbed must get a contractor who is certified to do Lead Based Paint Renovations & Repairs. This would include things like replacing doors & windows, stripping or sanding down old surfaces, or knocking out walls.

The contractor(s) must contain the work area, minimize dust and clean up thoroughly. A certified contractor will document the work process and be able to provide proof the project was completed according to EPA guidelines. The property owner needs to keep this documentation for future disclosure and reference in the event the property is sold.

The Las Cruces Building Industry Association, BIASNM, will be hosting a course on May 13, 2010 to educate contractors about the new standards and get them qualified as EPA Lead Certified Renovators.