Topics: Thompson Times, EPA, Law, Lead Paint, New
April 22 - Earth Day - Today the Environmental Protection Agency's "lead paint law" goes into effect. It will have an impact on all pre-1978 homes. Many of you live in pre-1978 homes and we all know people who do.
The Renovate, Repair and Painting Rule will affect you when you go to paint, repair or remodel your pre-1978 home -- unless you do the work yourself. The rule states that contractors working on such homes must:
Okay, okay, you say, but what does that have to do with homeowners? Here's what.
The rule will apply to any work that disturbs more than 6 sq. ft. of painted interior surfaces or more than 20 sq. ft. of painted exterior surfaces. That covers a lot of projects. But minor work and most energy improvements will be exempt.
The EPA will not carry out a public awareness campaign until later this year. Please spread the word to your friends. Ask before hiring any sort of contractor or painter: Are you EPA Lead-Safe Certified? If you get a blank stare, get another contractor. Many months ago we became a Certified Renovator with the EPA so we are ready to take the hassle out of your next project.
Topics: Thompson Times, EPA, Law, Lead Paint, New