The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently instituted federal regulations that affect remodeling contractors who work on homes built prior to 1978. The new regulations require that contractors be certified through the EPA to work in homes with lead based paints and finishes. The requirements are designed with the safety of the homes occupants in mind; especially children who are under the age of 6 years.
Lead based paint was used in paints and finishes as a color enhancer and hardener. It was discovered in the early 1900’s however that lead is toxic. Lead based paint is attributed to causing ADHD and mental retardation in children who either eat the lead chips (from flaking paint) or from inhaling dust caused by renovation activities.
In adults lead poisoning causes severe joint pain, headaches, and loss of sexual desire just to mention a few.
The new EPA regulations provide that non-certified contractors caught remodeling homes that contain lead can be fined up to $37,500 per day until they either pull off the project or get certified. If they are caught and continue to work after they have been cited, the $37,500 per day fine will continue each and every day until they comply.
In Utah, only 1 in 293 contractors are EPA Certified Renovators. If you live in a home built prior to 1978 and intend to remodel or renovate, for the sake of the health of you and your family, please be sure to hire a Certified Renovator.
If you have questions about lead based paint, remodeling an older home, or about having lead testing done, please contact me and I’ll be happy to help.
Kelly Anderson
Ironwood Custom Builders, Inc
[email protected]
www.IronwoodCustomBuilders.com
801-2052-2817
