Generally what is covered by the new EPA rule:

• Residential properties and child-occupied facilities (i.e. locations where children under the age of 6 typically visit – schools, day-care centers, places of worship, etc.) built prior to 1/1/1978;
• Within regulated properties; components (i.e. doors, walls, floors, ceilings, trim, etc.) that are coated with paint, stain, shellac or varnish, that has not been certified as lead free (i.e. below regulatory standards); and
• Disturbance of more than 6 square feet of coatings that is located on the interior or more than 20 square feet of coatings that is located on the exterior.

Why the rule does exists:

• The Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 (Congress requirement);
• Title X (a section within 1992 Act);
• EPA regulations (published in April 2008);
• To ensure adequate containment, controls and cleaning is associated with renovations in regulated properties;
• To reduce or eliminate conditions that may contribute to a child’s lead exposure.

What typically must the regulated community do:

• Submit an application plus $ 300 to EPA (become a Certified Firm);
• Comply, as applicable, with state requirements;
• Participate in training to become a Certified Renovator;
• Educate (provide a pamphlet – Renovate Right) their customer as to potential hazards produced during a renovation;
• Purchase and use new equipment [i.e. HEPA vacuums, EPA Recognized Test kits (optional), etc.];
• Document adequate cleaning following the renovation; and
• Maintain records for at least three years.