In the world of contractors and remodeling, there are a lot of legal issues to keep up on. As a contractor, it’s your responsibility to comply with regulations regarding lead paint when remodeling. You can learn everything you need to know about what’s really happening with enforcement by the EPA (and various states) at the 2020 Home Remodeling Legal Conference this December. In the meantime, here is some information to get you started.
Lead Paint Enforcement
Laws involving lead paint aren’t meant to make a contractor’s job more difficult. They are meant to protect the contractor, his or her employees, and any clients that are involved in the project, especially children and pregnant women. Lead poisoning is linked to various developmental, behavioral, and physical health problems, especially in young children, though anyone exposed can suffer the effects of it. This is what makes it essential for contractors to comply with the law.
Firms that are required to certify in lead-safety practices include painters, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and any others who work on child-occupied facilities that were built prior to 1978. This includes homes, apartment buildings, daycare centers, schools, and more. When these contractors do not comply with regulations and laws, the EPA takes action and typically ends up citing the firm. In some locations, enforcement is handled by the state.
How Regulations Impact Contractors and Home Remodelers
Contractors and home remodelers are impacted by lead paint laws in positive ways. Some are unaware they have a responsibility to comply with legal regulations, and that’s when they are impacted negatively. This is why it’s so important to keep up on changes in laws and procedures.
Those who know and understand regulations will ensure all individuals who work on a remodeling project are certified and trained. They will ensure compliance with the standards set forth by the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program. They will understand recordkeeping requirements and meet them. Contractors also have a responsibility to re-certify when their current certifications are expired.
Learning More
If you’re looking for more information about lead paint laws for contractors, contact NAPAC by calling 267-214-6229 or sending us an email. NAPAC members receive the highest discounts on training, forms, and pamphlets from Kachina Lead Paint Solutions that are needed in order to be in compliance. To learn about lead paint safety laws and a lot more, join us December 12th and 13th at the 2020 Home Remodeling Legal Conference.
