Case Remodeling Advises Birmingham Residents on New Rules for Lead Protection

Birmingham, AL, April 14, 2010 – Case Remodeling notes that if you’re doing a home renovation project on a house built before 1978, you need to be aware of potential lead paint on your walls, windows, or doors. Deteriorating lead paint can be hazardous to those who swallow or inhale it, particularly children under six. Home remodeling activities can disturb existing lead-based paint and create hazardous lead dust and chips. Effective April 22nd, 2010, a new U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule requires certification for contractors performing renovation, repair, and painting projects in homes built before 1978. Contractors, including remodelers, painters, and other specialists, must complete special training and follow specific work practices to contain lead contaminated material. According to Tom Coan, Owner of CASE Remodeling, “If you are hiring a company to do work on your pre-1978 home, ask if they are certified to perform lead-safe work practices and ask to see a copy of their certification”. Before starting work, renovators must give homeowners an EPA pamphlet explaining the dangers of lead paint. The EPA requirements do not apply to minor maintenance when less than six square feet of lead-based paint is disturbed inside a house or less than 20 square feet outside. However, window replacement is not considered minor maintenance. If you plan to do your own renovation work on a pre-1978 home, be sure to visit the EPA’s website (www.EPA.gov) to learn about lead safe practices.