Lead Safe Renovator

Pre-renovation Lead Information Rule

The Pre-Renovation Lead Information Rule, also known as Section 406(b) of the Toxic Substances Control Act, is a rule requiring people performing renovation for compensation to distribute a lead hazard information pamphlet prior to commencing the renovation. Under the rule, one is considered a “renovator” if their job is for compensation and will require them to disturb more than 2 square feet of paint in pre-1978 housing. This is not dependent upon whether what they do is typically considered a renovation. Whether the activity involves plumbing, drywalling, painting, or electrical work, if more than 2 square feet of paint must be disturbed, this rule applies.

The term “compensation” extends beyond money. Providing services in exchange for other goods or services (e.g., bartering) is included within the term. This rule applies to owners renovating their own apartment buildings using maintenance staff, as well as neighborhood handymen providing services to others. Work that is performed for free (no exchange of money, goods or services) or work performed by do-it- yourselfers in their own home is not covered by this rule.

What does this mean to you the Homeowner?

This rule goes into affect on April 22, 2010

This means this means is ANY contractor/handyman/electrician/plumber that does work which cuts holes or disturbs more than 2 square feet of drywall, trim or ceilings in house from 1978 or prior MUST be a “Certified Renovator” And THEY must “WORK IN A LEAD SAFE MANNER”.

When a renovating activity is performed, the renovator must give the owner of the housing a copy of the lead hazard information pamphlet and get their acknowledgment of receipt. If the housing is tenant occupied, then in addition to giving a copy of the pamphlet to the owner, a copy must be provided to the tenant and their signature must be obtained as well.

How do you know if your contractor is a “Certified Renovator”?

All certified Renovators must carry a certificate of completion and they have been assigned a number from the EPA. On Renovation projects this MUST be kept on the job site. All jobs pre 1978 MUST start and finish with the “Certified Renovator” present.

Tools of the EPA Certified Renovator

Home remodeling and repair projects can create various kinds of waste and debris including paint chips, door frames, windows, carpet, chemical strippers, wastewater, sponges, filters, and duct tape. If the home was built before 1978, the paint chips, dust, and other debris may contain lead. In this case, all wastes should be kept out of the reach of children and pets until pick-up or disposal. Drop cloths, sponges, gloves, and disposable, non-washable work clothes used during remodeling and clean-up should be sealed in heavy-duty garbage bags. These materials may be covered with lead dust and paint chips. Larger pieces of demolition debris should be wrapped in two layers of 6 mil plastic and sealed with duct tape.

Home Equity Builders, Inc.

We at Home Equity Builders have passed all the EPA regulations and have 3 staff members who have achieved the EPA Certification status. Our company is currently in process awaiting approval from the EPA as ALL companies must also be approved!

The EPA and OSHA will be the governing body that enforces these regulation and stiff penalties will be levied upon folks who do not adhere to these regulations.

Home Equity will as always keep all clients, their children and pets safe during our renovations and look forward to serving you!