By: Dennis Norman
Last year, March 31, 2008 to be exact, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a new rule requiring the use of lead-safe practices in the renovation, repair and painting of homes built before 1978 as well as some other facilities such as schools and day care.
The new rule applies to contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes. The rule requires contractors to become certified and require specific work practices when working. In order to become certified contractors will have to complete a renovator training course accredited by the EPA or a state program and obtain a renovator certification from the EPA or state program.
This rule does not go into effect until April 22, 2010 however there are some components of it that are in effect now. For example, as of December 22, 2008 contractors are required, prior to performing renovations in pre-1978 housing, provide to property owners and occupants a copy of the EPA publication “Renovate Right”.
Even though this rule applies to contractors and not to property owners I would suggest that landlords get with their contractors and maintenance people to make them aware of this new rule. Two months from today training providers are allowed to apply to the EPA for accreditation to provide renovator training. As soon as they receive accreditation contractors can then begin their training. The EPA has a guide available for property owners and contractors that you may want to read and share with your contractor.
The requirements for disclosure by the contractor under this rule does not relieve the property owner of their responsibiity to make written disclosure of lead-based paint hazards to tenants as well as proivde them with a copy of EPA publication “Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home”.
If your response to anything in the prior paragraph was “what”, “huh” or “oh no” I would suggest you quickly read the EPA requirements for disclosure and start clicking the links in the paragraph above to get the forms and booklets you need to use. Then start praying…the penalty for non-disclosure can be a fine of $10,000.
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