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Information Regarding Painting & Renovations of  Homes Built Before 1978

Why Do You Need to Be Concerned About Lead?

Lead is a toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around our homes. Although it is a natural material that is listed on the element chart, lead may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Children six years old and under are most at risk.

The Most Common Source of Lead Poisoning:

Although lead can be found in soil and water, the most common source is from renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and demolition that can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint.

Children most commonly get lead poisoning by ingesting the lead dust or chips, while adults most commonly get lead poisoning by breathing in lead dust.

The EPA Rule and How it Affects You

To protect against these risks, the EPA has issued the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) rule and other actions aimed at preventing lead poisoning.  Here is a brief breakdown of how the rule affects various parties:

Contractors:

Under the rule, beginning in April 2010, all contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb more than 6 square feet (interior) or 20 square feet (exterior) of lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be Certified and must follow specific work practices and procedures to prevent lead contamination.

Certified Renovators:

Individuals who have successfully completed an EPA approved training course on how to safely deal with lead hazards that are encountered while renovating.

Certified Firm:

A contractor who has demonstrated an understanding of the EPA regulations and uses Certified Renovators to complete the work as required by the RRP Rule.

Homeowners:

As a homeowner working on your own home, you are not required to abide by the EPA’s policies for the removal and containment of lead.  However, you are responsible for the safety and well-being of your family and neighbors.  You may also be liable to any future homeowners if you should sell your property.   If you prefer to use a contractor for the work, they must be a Certified Firm.

Childcare Facility, School, & Rental Property Owners:

If your property was built before 1978, you will have to pass the class to become a Certified Renovator if you wish to work on the property yourself.  If you prefer to use a contractor for the work, they must be a Certified Firm.

      
An example of a small indoor lead containment area, as well as the signage that is required to warn of renovation work taking place.

Allrounder provides lead safe renovation & remodeling services in the southeast Twin Cities metro area, including Inver Grove Heights (55076 & 55077), South St. Paul (55075), West St. Paul (55118), Mendota Heights (55120), Sunfish Lake, Eagan (55121, 55122, & 55123), Apple Valley, Rosemount, Woodbury (55125 & 55129), Cottage Grove (55016), St. Paul Park, & Newport (55055)

"I was very impressed with the prep work and taping so that nothing of mine was damaged." --Jody, Inver Grove Heights MN

Lead Safety

If your home was built before 1978, there could be lead based paint present.

 
The EPA has issued the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) rule aimed at preventing lead poisoning during renovation work.

If your contractor is going to disturb lead paint during renovation work, they must be an EPA Certified Firm.

Allrounder is an EPA Certified Firm and our pros have undergone extensive training to protect your family from lead dusts that may be disturbed during remodeling.

"Since our house is old, Allrounder took precautions for lead-based paint disturbance and removal. All the surrounding areas were protected and the cleanup was excellent."         --Megan, St. Paul MN

For More Info:

EPA Flyer (PDF)

EPA Website:  General Lead Info

The EPA's Renovate Right Brochure (PDF)

EPA's Lead Info Website

Lead Free Kids

Remodel Crazy Forum discussions on the RRP Rule