EPA Lead-Based Paint Program Frequent Questions (March 14, 2023)

EPA Lead-Based Paint Program
Frequent Questions (March 14, 2023)

About the Lead Frequent Questions and Answers: This document presents the Agency's preliminary
response to the issues presented in these questions. Accordingly, it is a living document and the
answers may be periodically revised and updated. Because the answers are subject to change, it is
recommended that users check back frequently and visit https://www.epa.gov/lead/fqs-rrp-rule for the
most up-to-date responses. The responses are intended solely for guidance and do not alter any
statutory or regulatory requirements. The document does not supersede any statutory or regulatory
provisions. Because the guidance provided in this document often addresses the very specific
circumstances stated in each question, the reader should also consult other applicable documents (e.g.,
15 U.S.C. 2681 et seq., 40 C.F.R. 745.80 et seq., the Preamble to the Final Rule, etc.). These responses
do not necessarily bind EPA or outside parties. EPA evaluates circumstances on a case-by-case basis,
and these answers may not apply to a specific situation. On March 21, 2022, EPA withdrew two frequent
questions concerning property management companies; see 86 FR 60812 or Docket No. EPA-HQ-
QECA-2021-0763 for more information. On March 14, 2023, EPA updated the lead in drinking water
section of the FQs.

Table of Contents

General Information about Lead 3

Testing for Lead 6

Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting 12

General Information about the Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule 12

Renovations Covered by the RRP Rule 18

In General 18

Definition of "Renovation" 21

Minor Repair and Maintenance Activities 26

Renovations for Compensation 31

Target Housing 33

Child-Occupied Facilities 38

Testing Painted Components 39

Emergency Renovations 42

Opt-Out Provision 44

Pre-Renovation Education 44

Work Practice Standards 53

Occupant Protection 53

Containing the Work Area 54

Prohibited and Restricted Practices 62

Waste from Renovations 62

Cleaning the Work Area 64

Cleaning Verification 66

Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements 68

Firm Certification 70

Lead-Safe Certified Firm Logo 77

Renovator Certification and Training 79

Authorized State and Tribal Programs 84

Training Provider Accreditation 85

Enforcement and Inspections 87

Information for Do-lt-Yourselfers 89

Lead Abatement, Risk Assessment and Inspection 89

Applying for Certification or Accreditation 103

Lead-Based Paint Program Fees 108

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EPA/HUD Real Estate Notification & Disclosure Rule	110

Lead in Products	115

Lead in Drinking Water	116

Lead at Superfund Sites	116

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General Information about Lead

Question (23002-22416)

What is lead?

Answer

Lead is a toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around our homes. Lead
also can be emitted into the air from motor vehicles and industrial sources, and lead can enter drinking
water from plumbing materials. Lead-based paint is present in many homes built before 1978.
The federal government banned the use of lead-based paint in housing in 1978. To learn more about
lead, visit http://www.epa.gov/lead.

Question (23002-24471)

Where is lead found?

Answer

Many homes built before 1978 have lead-based paint. In general, the older your home, the more likely it
has lead-based paint. Soil around a home can contain lead from sources like deteriorated exterior paint,
past use of leaded gas in cars, or from past renovation activities. Household dust can pick up lead from
deteriorating lead-based paint, from past renovation projects, or from soil tracked into a home. If you
work with lead, you could bring it home on your hands or clothes. It is important to shower and change
clothes before going home. Launder your work clothes separately from the rest of your family's clothes.
To learn more about sources of lead, visit https://www.epa.goV/lead/learn-about-lead#found.

Question (23002-18139)

I thought lead-based paint had been phased out. How many homes still contain lead-based paint?

Answer

The Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) National Survey of Lead and Allergens in
Housing estimated that 38 million permanently occupied housing units (40% of all housing units) in the
United States contain some lead-based paint that was applied before the residential use of lead-based
paint was banned in 1978. "Housing units" include single-family homes, manufactured housing, and
multi-unit dwellings like apartments. Vacant housing, group quarters (e.g., prisons, hospitals, and
dormitories), hotels, motels, and other short-term housing, military bases, and housing where children are
not permitted to live (e.g., housing designated exclusively for the elderly and those with zero-bedroom
units) are not included in this number. More information on these statistics is available from HUD.

Question (23002-21128)

What are some of the health effects of lead?

Answer

Lead is known to cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to
seizures and death. Children six years old and under are most at risk from exposure lead-based paint
because they crawl on the floor and they put their hands and other items which can have lead-based
paint dust on them into their mouths. Because their bodies are still growing, children tend to absorb more
lead than adults.

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Children exposed to lead can suffer from:

• Lowered IQ

• Damage to the brain and nervous system

• Learning and behavioral difficulties

• Slowed growth

• Hearing problems

• Headaches
Adults can suffer from:

• Reproductive problems (in both men and women)

• High blood pressure and hypertension

• Nerve disorders

• Memory and concentration problems

• Muscle and joint pain

To learn more about health effects of lead, visit https://www.epa.goV/lead/learn-about-lead#effects.

Question (23002-23458)

What should I do if I am concerned about my family's exposure to lead?

Answer

A blood test is the only way to find out whether you or a family member already has lead poisoning. Call
your doctor or local health department to arrange for a blood test. You can protect your family every day
by:

• Regularly cleaning floors, window sills, and other surfaces.

• Washing children's hands, bottles, pacifiers, and toys often.

• Making sure children eat a healthy, nutritious diet consistent with the USDA's dietary guidelines.

• Wiping off shoes before entering the house.

• Using an EPA-certified firm for renovations, or if you are doing the renovation yourself, using
lead-safe work practices (see https://www.epa.gov/lead for more information).

Question (23002-21996)

What information can I get about lead-based paint in a home before I buy or rent it?

Answer

Many houses and apartments built before 1978 have some lead-based paint. Lead from paint chips, and
dust can pose serious health hazards if not taken care of properly. Federal law requires that individuals
receive certain information before renting or buying pre-1978 housing. Sellers and landlords must:

• Disclose information on known lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards in the housing
being sold or rented;

• Provide buyers and renters with any available records or reports pertaining to lead-based paint or
lead-based paint hazards in the housing; and

• Provide buyers and renters with a copy of the pamphlet entitled "Protect Your Family from Lead in
Your Home."

In addition, sellers must give potential buyers an opportunity to check the home for lead-based paint or
lead-based paint hazards. To learn more about the lead disclosure rule for real estate, visit

https :://www. e pa ,.g ov/lle ad/irea l-estate-d i sc llos u ire.

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Question (23002-32411)

Building material reuse stores sometimes accept older materials which have been coated with lead-based
paint and could pose a lead poisoning hazard. In particular, older windows and doors are likely to contain
lead-based paint, and this paint can present very high risks due to friction and impacts causing the paint
to deteriorate and generate lead dust. How can employees of these stores and their customers manage
lead hazards associated with these older building materials?

Answer

As a preliminary matter, your state may have laws or regulations addressing the management, handling
or sale of materials containing lead-based paint. Therefore, building material reuse stores should contact
both their state health department ("h'ttp:://www.cdcgov/irnirnwir/iinteirnatiionall/ireIireshtiniID and state
environmental agency for more specific direction. In addition to complying with all state or local law and
regulations, EPA recommends the following practices to help minimize lead exposure to employees,
volunteers, and customers.

At a minimum, EPA suggests that reuse stores label suspect items to indicate that they may contain lead,
educate staff about lead hazards, and provide outreach materials to customers about lead-safe work
practices. Some useful resources include: Renovate Right (https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-safe-certified-
guide-renovate-right-2). Steps to LEAD SAFE Renovation, Repair and Painting
(https://www.epa.gov/lead/steps-lead-safe-renovation-repair-and-painting-march-2009). and Lead Paint
Safety: A Field Guide for Painting, Home Maintenance, and Renovation Work

(http://www.hud.aov/offices/lead/trainina/LBPguide.pdf). These can be downloaded from EPA's Web site
or ordered from the National Lead Information Center at 1 (800)424-LEAD or
https://www.epa.gov/lead/forms/national-lead-information-center-document-request-form.

EPA suggests that reuse stores assume the presence of lead-based paint in pre-1978 residential building
materials and all other non-residential building materials, or have these materials tested. Lead test kits
that have been recognized by EPA (https://www.epa.gov/lead/epa-recognition-lead-test-kits) are available
at most hardware stores; alternatively, an XRF analyzer can be used to detect lead or a paint chip can be
sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Question (23002-22897)

What is the most significant source of childhood lead exposure in a residence?

Answer

The scientific literature suggests that nationally lead-contaminated paint dust is the most significant
source of childhood lead exposure. Lead dust comes from deteriorating lead-based paint and lead-
contaminated soil that gets tracked into your home. This dust may accumulate to unsafe levels. Common
renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and demolition can also create hazardous lead dust. People,
especially children, can swallow lead dust as they eat, play, and do other normal hand-to-mouth activities.

Question (23002-21129)

What are some of the health effects of lead in children?

Answer

Lead is especially dangerous to children under six years of age. Lead can affect children's brains and
developing nervous systems, causing reduced IQ and learning disabilities, and behavioral problems.
Even children who appear healthy can have dangerous levels of lead in their bodies. To learn more
about the health effects of lead visit http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaqs/tf.asp?id=93&t

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Testing for Lead

Question (23002-16836)

How can I tell if my home contains lead-based paint?

Answer

The older your home, the more likely it contains lead-based paint. For example, 87% of homes built
before 1940 have some lead-based paint, while 24% of homes built between 1960 and 1978 have some
lead-based paint. Lead-based paint may be present in private single-family homes or apartments,
government-assisted, or public housing, and in urban, suburban, or rural settings. If you want to know
whether or not your home contains lead-based paint, EPA recommends one of the following:

• Assume your home contains lead-based paint and take the appropriate precautions. In pre-1978
homes and buildings, this is the simplest and safest approach.

• Hire a certified professional to check for lead-based paint. A certified lead-based paint inspector
or risk assessor can conduct an inspection to determine whether your home or a portion of your
home has lead-based paint and where it is located. This will tell you the areas in your home
where lead-safe work practices should be used for renovation, repair, or painting jobs. A certified
risk assessor can conduct a risk assessment telling you whether your home currently has any
lead hazards from lead in paint, dust, or soil. The risk assessor can also tell you what actions to
take to address any hazards. For help finding a certified risk assessor or inspector, call the
National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323).

A number of lead test kits are available for consumer purchase in most retail hardware stores, however,
the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) states that consumers should exercise caution when
using these lead test kits to evaluate consumer products for potential lead exposures. See
https://www.cpsc.gov/content/cpsc-staff-studv-home-lead-test-kits-unreliable.

To test for lead-based paint in your home, EPA recommends that you hire a certified inspector or risk
assessor. For determining whether lead-based paint is present in pre-1978 housing and childcare
facilities that are subject to renovation, repair and painting regulations, EPA has recognized three lead
test kits, but recognition only applies to use by Lead-Safe Certified renovators.

You may also choose to contact a laboratory recognized under EPA's National Lead Laboratory
Accreditation Program (NLLAP) for lead paint chip, dust or soil sample analysis. A list of available NLLAP
laboratories, including their recognized sample type(s), is available at https://www.epa.gov/lead/natiiorial-
lead-laboratory-accreditation-program-list.

Question (23002-20555)

The lead information pamphlet titled "Renovate Right" states there is a kit consumers can use to collect
samples to send to a lab if they suspect any lead hazards have been left after a renovation. Do samples
like these need to be taken by certified abatement personnel or a dust sampling technician?

Answer

No. When all the work is finished, you may want to know if your home, childcare facility, or school has
been cleaned up properly. One way to check is a lead-dust test. Lead-dust tests are wipe samples sent
to a laboratory for analysis. You have the choice of having a lead-dust test done by a lead professional or
doing the testing yourself. If you choose to do the testing, some EPA-recognized lead laboratories will
send you a kit that allows you to collect samples and send them back to the lab for analysis. Contact the

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National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) for lists of qualified professionals and EPA-
recognized lead labs. A list of available EPA-recognized lead laboratories is also available at
https://www.epa.gov/lead/national-lead-laboratorv-accreditation-program-list.

To learn more about making sure your home, child care facility, or school has been cleaned properly
after a renovation, visit https://www.epa.gov/lead/renovation-repair-and-painting-program-consumers.

Question (23002-32338)

Is lead paint testing required under the Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule?

Answer

No. A firm can either assume lead-based paint is present and follow the requirements of the rule (which
requires no testing), or test and if lead-based paint is found follow the requirements of the regulation.

Question (23002-15211)

Do test results from a certified renovator using an EPA-recognized lead test kit (40 CFR § 745.83) or
performing paint chip sampling (40 CFR § 745.82) become an official part of the lead-based paint testing
record for that house thus negating the need for a certified lead inspector or certified lead risk assessor to
conduct the inspection in that area of the house? Can a certified renovator conduct a complete lead-
based paint inspection and give the property owner as an inspection report?

Answer

The results of paint testing using lead test kits or paint chip sampling are part of the official lead-based
paint testing record for a home, and must be disclosed under EPA's Real Estate Disclosure regulation (40
CFR part 745, subpart F). However, EPA's regulations only provide for a certified inspector or risk
assessor to conduct a lead-based paint inspection and to prepare a lead-based paint inspection
report. Thus, allowing renovators to test components does not negate the requirement that a certified
inspector or risk assessor follow the requirements set forth in § 745.227(b) when conducting a lead-based
paint inspection.

Question (23002-23865)

When testing a work area, does one lead test kit or paint chip sample suffice for any single component?
What if a component's surface area is extensive (i.e., a large wall)?

Answer

The certified renovator is only required to use one lead test kit or paint chip sample for each component,
even if the surface of the component is extensive (e.g., a large wall).

Question (23002-15694)

Does the RRP Rule apply to work on windows that have been installed within the last 20 years in a pre-
1978 housing unit? Would confirmation of the window installation based on property owner
documentation (i.e., receipts, warranty paperwork, contracts) and/or date of manufacture of the windows
be sufficient to exclude this work from the lead-safe work practices and other requirements?

Answer

The RRP Rule applies unless you have determined that all the components affected by the renovation,
including the windows, are free of paint or other surface coatings that contain lead equal to or in excess of
1.0 milligrams per square centimeter (mg/cm2) or 0.5% by weight. This determination must be made

7

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either by a certified inspector or risk assessor, or by a certified renovator using an EPA-recognized lead
test kit or performing paint chip sampling. You must keep records of any lead-based paint free
determination and make the records available to EPA if requested.

Question (23002-23701)

When a certified renovator uses an EPA-recognized lead test kit or performs paint chip sampling to
determine the presence of lead, can the results be grouped? For instance, may the certified renovator
test just one windowsill in a room if all will be affected?

Answer

No. The certified renovator must test each component affected by the renovation. If the components
make up an integrated whole, such as the individual stair treads and risers of a single staircase, the
renovator is required to test only one of the individual components, unless the individual components
appear to have been repainted or refinished separately. Multiple windowsills are not integrated parts of a
whole. They are separate components and must be tested separately.

Question (23002-23255)

What lead test kits are recognized by EPA?

Answer

To date, EPA has recognized three lead test kits for use in complying with the negative response
criterion of the RRP rule. They are the 3M LeadCheck™ kit (for use on ferrous metal, plaster, drywall and
wood), the State of Massachusetts kit (for use on drywall, plaster), and the D-Lead® kit (for use on wood,
drywall, plaster, and ferrous metal). If a substrate material is not listed above (such as stucco, or non-
ferrous metals) then the EPA-recognized lead test kits cannot be used on that substrate to comply with
the testing requirements of the RRP rule.

Question (23002-16393)

How can I obtain 3M LeadCheck™ test kits?

Answer

The 3M LeadCheck™ test kits can be purchased from either 3M™ LeadCheck™ directly or from certain
retail outlets. To order a 3M LeadCheck™ test kit call 800-494-3552.

Question (23002-15505)

Does EPA recognize the 3M LeadCheck™ test kit for use on red paint?

Answer

Yes. EPA recognizes this lead test kit for use on any color paint as long as the lead test kit is used in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Question (23002-18220)

If a certified renovator using an EPA-recognized lead test kit or paint chip sampling determines that the
components that will be affected by a renovation are free of lead-based paint, can a firm that does not
have RRP certification do the actual renovation work? What record-keeping requirements would apply?

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Answer

Where a certified renovator performs paint chip sampling or uses an EPA-recognized lead test kit
following the lead test kit manufacturer's instructions, tests each component affected by the renovation,
and determines that the components are free of paint or other surface coatings that contain lead at
regulated levels, the renovation can be performed by a non-certified firm and without regard to the work
practice standards or record-keeping requirements of the RRP Rule. See 40 CFR 745.82(a)(2).

However, the certified renovator and firm performing the testing are still subject to the recordkeeping
requirements of 745.86(b)(1)(ii) and (iii), and 745.86(a) and (c). Specifically, the certified renovator must
prepare a record that states the brand of lead test kit used or the name and address of the EPA-
recognized laboratory performing the paint chip analysis, a description of the components tested including
their location, and results of the tests. The certified renovator's firm must retain a copy of this record for
three years. EPA further recommends that the firm actually performing the renovation also retain a copy
of these records to demonstrate that compliance with the RRP Rule was not required.

Question (23002-19098)

Is it true that the lead test kits that were recognized by EPA before September 1, 2010, are no longer
recognized since that date?

Answer

No. The lead test kits that were recognized by EPA before September 1, 2010 did not automatically lose
their recognition on September 1, 2010. As discussed in the 2008 RRP rule, prior to September 1, 2010,
manufacturers seeking recognition of their lead test kit had to meet only the negative response criterion.
EPA recognition of lead test kits meeting this criterion will last until EPA publicizes its recognition of a lead
test kit that passes both the negative response and the positive response criteria.

Question (23002-25349)

Will there be any Phase Two lead kits approved as a result of EPA's Environmental Technology
Verification (ETV) evaluations?

Answer

Based on the results of the recent ETV evaluations no new lead test kits were approved that meet both
the negative response and positive response criteria requirements. However, one lead test kit, D-Lead®,
did meet the negative response criterion for drywall, plaster, ferrous metal and wood, and was recognized
for use by certified renovators on August 31, 2010. Thus, after September 1, 2010, EPA will continue to
recognize 3M LeadCheck™, the State of Massachusetts kit, and the newly recognized D-Lead® kit.

Question (23002-16390)

How can I obtain D-Lead® test kits?

Answer

The D-Lead® test kits are available for purchase from certain distributors and retail outlets. A list of
theses distributors and retailers can be found by going to http://www.esca-tech.com. emailing rrp@esca-
tech.com, or by calling (414) 962-3006.

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Question (23002-31777)

My firm is not RRP-certified and does not employ an RRP-certified renovator. If we are asked to perform
a renovation in a pre-1978 home, we first test the home for the presence of lead using an EPA-
recognized lead test kit. If lead is present, we decline the job. If lead is determined not to be present, we
accept and proceed normally. Can we perform these lead tests without being a certified renovator?

Answer

No. When performing a renovation in a pre-1978 home, a firm is exempted from the requirements of the
RRP Rule if a determination has been made that the surfaces affected by the renovation are free of paint
or other surface coatings that contain lead equal to or in excess of 1.0 mg/cm2 or 0.5% by weight.
However, in order for this exception to apply, the determination must be made by a certified lead
inspector or risk assessor, or by a certified renovator using an EPA-recognized lead test kit and following
the lead test kit manufacturer's instructions.

Question (23002-31778)

I am an EPA-certified lead risk assessor. Can I use an EPA-recognized lead test kit (e.g., 3M
LeadCheck™, D-Lead®, etc.) when assessing whether or not a pre-1978 home contains lead-based paint
for purposes of the RRP Rule?

Answer

Yes. In addition to a certified renovator, a person certified by EPA as a risk assessor or lead inspector
may use an EPA-recognized lead test kit to determine that regulated lead-based paint is not present in a
home. Such a report can also be used to confirm that the RRP Rule would not apply to renovation
activities in that home. A list of currently EPA-recognized lead test kits is available at:

https://www.epa.gov/llead/llead-test-kits.

Question (23002-32520)

Can a person who is color blind use the 3M LeadCheck™ test kits?

Answer

A certified renovator seeking to use an EPA-recognized lead test kit for RRP purposes must be able to
use the lead test kit, and interpret the results, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. A
person who is unable to accurately use the product due to some disability cannot, and should not, rely on
any results for RRP purposes.

Question (23002-33650)

Can a homeowner use an EPA-recognized lead test kit to check for lead-based paint?

Answer

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You may also choose to contact a laboratory recognized under EPA's National Lead Laboratory
Accreditation Program (NLLAP) for lead paint chip, dust or soil sample analysis. A list of available NLLAP
laboratories, including their recognized sample type(s), is available at Ihittp:://www2.epa.gov/lead/natiioirtaI-
lead-laboratorv-accreditation-program-list.

Question (23002-20750)

Under the RRP Rule, when testing a property for the presence of lead prior to beginning a renovation
using an EPA-recognized lead test kit, must I test every component affected by the renovation?

Answer

Yes. Because certified renovator training does not cover sampling protocols, certified renovators using
EPA-recognized lead test kits to determine the applicability of the RRP Rule must test each and every
component that will be affected in order to determine that the RRP Rule does not apply to a particular
renovation.

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Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting

General Information about the Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting
(RRP) Rule

Question (23002-22990)

What is the purpose of the RRP Rule?

Answer

The purpose of the Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule is to minimize exposure from lead-based
paint dust during renovation, repair, or painting activities. This is a key effort in reducing the prevalence
of childhood lead poisoning, particularly lead poisoning caused by housing contaminated by renovation
activities. This will also minimize exposure to older children and adults who are also adversely impacted
by lead-based paint dust exposure. Lead paint was used in more than 38 million homes prior to its ban
for residential use in 1978. This paint can form toxic dust when it is disturbed during normal home repair
work. EPA's RRP program is designed to reduce lead contamination by training contractors in relatively
simple lead-safe work practices, and certifying contractors to make sure that they follow lead-safe work
practices. We also encourage consumers to choose firms that are certified.

Question (23002-21795)

What does the RRP Rule require?

Answer

The RRP Rule requires that renovators are trained in the use of lead safe work practices, that renovators
and firms be certified, that providers of renovation training be accredited, and that renovators follow
specific work practice standards. Additional information on this rule can be found at
https://www.epa.gov/lead/renovation-repair-and-painting-program.

Question (23002-24685)

Who is covered by the RRP Rule?

Answer

The rule applies to all firms and individuals who are paid to perform renovation, repair, and painting
projects that disturb paint in pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities. This includes home
improvement contractors, maintenance workers, painters and other specialty trades.

Question (23002-19015)

Is it a violation of the RRP Rule for a homeowner to hire a firm that is not certified?

Answer

The RRP rule does not impose requirements on homeowners. However, the hired firm would be in
violation of the RRP Rule if it was uncertified and performing a covered renovation.

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Question (23002-17725)

How much will it cost contractors to comply with the RRP Rule?

Answer

In order to comply with the RRP rule, renovators will incur costs for EPA certification and costs to take a
training course from an EPA-accredited training provider, as well as for supplies needed in order to carry
out the required lead-safe work practices designed to reduce exposure to lead dust from renovations.

Firm Certification and Training Costs: The rule requires renovation firms to become certified by EPA
or an EPA-approved state RRP program in order to perform renovation, repair or painting activities for
compensation in target housing or child-occupied facilities. EPA is required by law to charge firms a fee
that covers the government's cost of administering the program. Firm certification is valid for five years.
The fee for most firms is $300, which is equivalent to a cost of $60 per year.

In addition, the rule requires that firms use trained certified renovators for certain key parts of the job,
such as containing the work area and conducting cleaning verification after the job's completion. In most
cases, firms have at least one certified renovator on staff. To be a certified renovator, an individual must
take a training course from a private training provider accredited by EPA. The training is valid for five
years. The cost of the training course is set by the private training provider and varies, but averages
$186 (which is equivalent to a cost of about $40 per year). The trained renovators can then provide on-
the-job training to their workers. Firms may also incur additional costs related to training and certification,
such as the time spent on the activities, and for traveling to and from the training. EPA estimates that this
costs $562 per person trained. This includes a tuition cost of $186, the value of time for the eight hours
the renovator is in class ($253), the value of time for two hours traveling to and from class ($63), mileage
costs to drive to and from the training ($49), and lunch while at the training ($9).

Costs Associated with Lead-Safe Work Practices: Aside from the fixed costs for training and
certification, renovators will also incur costs that vary depending on the size, type, and number of jobs
performed.

Lead test kits. Renovators may choose to use lead test kits to determine whether lead-based paint is
present before the start of the job. The total cost of the lead test kits used depends on the number
components tested but is estimated to average $10 per job. The use of lead test kits is optional, but
many renovators find the lead test kits helpful for determining which parts of the job are subject to the
rule's work practice requirements.

Labor, equipment and supply costs. The rule also requires renovators to use work practices in order to
reduce exposure to lead dust. As part of the rulemaking process, EPA estimated the labor, equipment,
and supply costs for these work practices. To calculate the costs for the rule's containment, cleaning,
and cleaning verification requirements, EPA considered nine categories of renovation events (kitchen
renovation, window replacement, painting, etc), for up to three sizes (small, medium, and large square
footage) in up to three different dwelling types (single-family owner, single family rental, and multi-family
rental) and in child-occupied facilities.

EPA first estimated an absolute cost of complying with the lead-safe work practices required by a rule if a
renovator did not use any containment, or perform any cleaning, or cleaning verification prior to the rule.
EPA estimated the labor and materials costs associated with each lead-safe work practice for the various
job types included in the analysis.

However, EPA heard from the industry that renovators had been taking steps to control dust from
renovations prior to the promulgation of the rule. Based on this input, EPA estimated an average
incremental cost of each lead-safe work practice by subtracting the cost already being incurred by
renovators for containment and cleaning from the estimate of the absolute cost of the rule's requirements.

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For typical jobs in single family homes, EPA estimated that the average absolute costs to comply with the
rule ranged from $35 to $376, depending on the size and nature of the job. The average incremental
costs of complying with the rule ranged from $8 to $124. For example:

For a large window replacement job in a single-family home (12 windows), the average cost ranges
between $124 for contractors who already used some of the required work practices, to $376 for
contractors who did not use any of the required work practices.

For a medium sized job removing portions of a wall in a single-family home (such as might be done to
repair water pipes or electrical wiring), the average cost ranges between $41 for contractors who already
used some of the required work practices, to $121 for contractors who did not use any of the required
work practices.

For an exterior painting job involving four exterior walls, the average cost ranges between $90 for
contractors who already used some of the required work practices, to $245 for contractors who did not
use any of the required work practices.

Finally, firms incur a cost for paperwork and recordkeeping, in order to demonstrate compliance with the
RRP rule's training and work practice requirements.

Renovators conduct millions of jobs each year, ranging from simple drywall repairs to complete kitchen
and bath renovations, and from window replacements to building additions. While EPA estimated the
compliance costs for various general sizes and types of work, EPA's cost model is a simplified
representation that cannot capture all of the variations from one job to another. EPA's methodology does
not estimate the cost for any individual job performed by a particular renovator.

The cost for a particular contractor to comply with the rule may be considerably different from the sample
jobs EPA considered, depending on factors such as the size, configuration, or other conditions of the
work area; how the contractor uses his or her discretion to comply with the rule; and the prevailing local
wage rates. Furthermore, EPA only estimated the cost of the work practices required by the rule. Some
contractors may choose to take additional precautions beyond those required by the rule. These steps
may provide extra protection for residents and renovation workers, but they also increase the cost of the
work. And because EPA's estimates reflect the cost to contractors, not the price paid by homeowners,
the estimates do not include the contractor's mark-up for profits.

The purpose of EPA's analysis was to compare the national cost of the rule's requirements to the national
benefits of the rule. The analysis indicated that the requirements of the rule are not excessive or overly
burdensome in light of the importance of avoiding the potentially severe consequences of exposure to
lead-based paint hazards.

Question (23002-23391)

What records will my firm be required to keep?

Answer

The following records must be retained for three years following the completion of a renovation:

• Reports (if any) certifying that lead-based paint is not present

• Records relating to the distribution of the lead pamphlet

• Documentation of compliance with the requirements of the regulation (EPA has prepared a
sample form that is available at https://www.epa.aQv/lead/sample-renovation-recordkeeping-

checklist).

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Question (23002-25279)

Will insurance premiums go up for contractors covered by the rule that work in homes and child-occupied
facilities with lead-based paint?

Answer

The practice of carrying insurance to cover work in older homes from potential lead poisoning damages is
not new. The RRP Rule, because it sets a clear standard of care and allows contractors to demonstrate
that they meet that standard by taking appropriate training and using proper work practices, could
eventually lead to insurance premiums that reflect that proactive stance.

Question (23002-19407)

Is there one document available that includes the latest version of the RRP Rule, with all amendments
added to their associated locations, in complete form, and not including the preamble?

Answer

Yes. Visit the RRP Web site at https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-regulations and click on "40 CFR Part 745
- Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention in Certain Residential Structures".

Question (23002-18597)

If there are differences among EPA's, HUD's, and my State's requirements, which ones do I have to
comply with?

Answer

You must comply with all applicable requirements. The initial 8-hour renovator training course will teach
you how to perform lead-safe work practices safely and effectively in compliance with the EPA RRP Rule
and the HUD Lead Safe Housing Rule. The RRP Rule is not intended to supersede or preempt any more
stringent State or local laws.

Question (23002-19805)

My school district will be performing asbestos abatement in a kindergarten classroom that was built
before 1978. Do the asbestos abatement workers also need to comply with the RRP rule?

Answer

Yes, if the asbestos abatement disrupts over six square feet of painted surface per room in an interior, or
over 20 square feet of painted surface on an exterior, or involves window replacement or demolition of
painted surfaces. If so, the asbestos abatement will need to be performed by a firm certified under the
RRP rule. The firm will be required to assign an RRP-certified renovator to the project, and workers will
need to have been trained by a certified renovator. Of course, the asbestos abatement must be designed
and conducted by persons accredited in accordance with the Model Accreditation Plan.

The asbestos abatement will need to meet the RRP Rule work practice standards as well as the
standards for asbestos abatement. For each element of the job, the contractor will need to determine
which standards are more stringent and comply with those standards. Typically, the asbestos abatement
containment and waste handling requirements are more stringent than the RRP Rule provisions, so
compliance with the asbestos requirements will also serve as compliance with the RRP requirements.
However, both the asbestos air clearance and the RRP cleanup and verification requirements must be

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performed. Because the air clearance process is performed with the critical barriers still in place, it must
be performed before RRP cleanup and verification.

Question (23002-15674)

Does the RRP Rule apply to states and local governments?

Answer

The RRP Rule requires that renovators are trained in the use of lead safe work practices, that renovators
and firms be certified, that providers of renovation training be accredited, and that renovators follow
specific work practice standards. After April 22, 2010 contractors (including renovation, repair and
painting workers, plumbers, electricians, HVAC professionals, etc.) working in pre-1978 homes, schools
and child-care facilities must be EPA certified and trained in lead-safe work practices when conducting
renovation, repair and painting activities that will disturb more than six square feet of painted surfaces on
the interior of a building or more than 20 square feet on the exterior. Window replacements are covered
activities.

Question (23002-18044)

I am planning to renovate my home. How can I find a lead-safe certified firm?

Answer

EPA has a searchable database to help you locate lead-safe certified firms near you at:
http://cfpub.epa.gov/flpp/searchrrp firm.htm. In addition, you can call EPA's lead hotline at 1-800-424-
LEAD (5323) if you have questions.

Question (23002-18095)

I have hired a firm to renovate my home, but now I am concerned about whether the firm is a lead-safe
certified firm. How can I find out?

Answer

EPA has a searchable database to help you locate lead-safe certified firms near you at:
http://cfpub.epa.gov/flpp/searchrrp firm.htm. It is possible that your firm is not yet listed on EPA's web
site but is certified. If you do not find your firm on EPA's web site, you should call EPA's lead hotline at 1-
800-424-LEAD (5323) and speak to an expert who can help you find out whether your firm is certified.

Question (23002-17543)

How long will it take EPA to process my application to be a lead-safe certified firm?

Answer

EPA is required to process your application within 90 days of receipt. In most instances, properly
completed firm applications are processed in about one month.

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Question (23002-18120)

I operate a renovation firm and I have heard that my state will adopt its own lead Renovation, Repair and
Painting program. Do I have to also be certified by EPA?

Answer

As of July 2011, twelve states have their own RRP programs (Alabama, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas,
Massachusetts, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin). If
your firm is located in one of these states, you should contact them for information on their certification
requirements. If you work outside of one of those states, your firm needs to be certified by EPA.

Question (23002-16209)

How can I find a certified renovation firm in my area?

Answer

EPA's website includes a search tool that allows consumers to find certified firms in their area. You can
find this search tool at http:://cfpulb.epa.gov/flpp/seaire	m.htm. Alternatively, you can contact the

National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD for a list of contractors in your area.

Question (23002-25193)

Will a renovator working for a firm that has submitted a certification application to EPA but has not
received its certification be allowed to work on pre-1978 properties assuming compliance with all other
requirement of the RRP Rule?

Answer

No. Beginning April 22, 2010, no firm may perform, offer, or claim to perform renovations covered by the
RRP Rule without certification from EPA.

17

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Renovations Covered by the RRP Rule

In General

Question (23002-17496)

How is window repair or maintenance, as distinct from removal, treated under the RRP Rule? Would the
rule apply to a job that replaced parts or components of a window, such as broken or failed glass,
hardware, or balance systems, where some components might be painted, but the frame of the window
would remain?

Answer

Replacing a pane of glass or fixing a broken window balancer is not a window replacement. However,
this activity would be subject to the rule unless it meets the definition of minor repair and maintenance.
To be considered minor repair and maintenance, the renovation must not disrupt more than six square
feet of painted surfaces per room. Activities such as replacing a piece of glass in a window can disturb
paint. The glazing that holds the pane in place in older windows is painted, and this glazing has to be
removed for the pane to be replaced. Also keep in mind that when calculating the six square feet when a
component is being removed, it's based on the surface area of the component.

Question (23002-15669)

Does the RRP rule apply to renovations done in an apartment between tenants? Does it matter if
children live in other apartments in the building?

Answer

Temporarily unoccupied or vacant housing rental is not exempt from the requirements of the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-19962)

Does the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule prohibit the deconstruction and reuse of old
building materials containing lead-based paint?

Answer

No. The RRP Rule does not prohibit a firm from extracting, salvaging or reusing building materials that
contain lead-based paint. However, the requirements of the RRP Rule may apply to these activities if
they (1) occur in target housing or a child-occupied facility, and (2) disturb more than six square feet of
interior painted surface or more than twenty square feet of exterior painted surface.

Further, the RRP Rule only applies to renovations - the modification of an existing structure that results in
the disturbance of painted surfaces. Demolition of an entire property is not a renovation for RRP
purposes. Therefore, if deconstruction or salvage activities occur in conjunction with total demolition of
the property, the RRP Rule would not apply. Conversely, if only a portion of the property is
deconstructed, and the above two criteria are met, then the activity is a renovation and the requirements
of RRP Rule apply. In such a case, firms must establish containment before deconstruction, and ensure
that components to be reused are free of any lead-based paint dust or debris before they are removed
from the work area.

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Question (23002-19754)

My firm is performing a renovation in an unoccupied home that will be put up for sale when work is done.
Does the RRP Rule apply to this renovation?

Answer

Yes. Temporarily unoccupied or vacant housing is not exempt from the requirements of the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-15688)

Does the RRP Rule apply to office buildings, stores, and other commercial buildings?

Answer

No, unless the renovation is taking place in a child-occupied facility that is located in a commercial
building. "Child-occupied facility" means a building, or portion of a building, constructed prior to 1978,
visited regularly by the same child, under six years of age, on at least two different days within any week
(Sunday through Saturday period), provided that each day's visit lasts at least three hours and the
combined weekly visits last at least six hours, and the combined annual visits last at least 60 hours.
Child-occupied facilities may include, but are not limited to, day care centers, preschools and
kindergarten classrooms. Child-occupied facilities may be located in target housing or in public or
commercial buildings.

With respect to common areas in public or commercial buildings that contain child-occupied facilities, the
child-occupied facility encompasses only those common areas that are routinely used by children under
age six, such as restrooms and cafeterias. Common areas that children under age six only pass through,
such as hallways, stairways, and garages are not included. In addition, with respect to exteriors of public
or commercial buildings that contain child-occupied facilities, the child-occupied facility encompasses only
the exterior sides of the building that are immediately adjacent to the child-occupied facility, or the
common areas routinely used by children under age six.

Areas of a building that fall outside this definition are not "child-occupied facilities" for purposes of the
RRP rule.

Question (23002-15684)

Does the RRP Rule apply to federal employees performing work on federal facilities?

Answer

Yes. Federal agencies and their employees must comply with all Federal, State, interstate, and local
requirements, both substantive and procedural, respecting lead-based paint in the same manner and to
the same extent as any non-governmental entity. In addition, the RRP Rule requires all renovations
performed after April 22, 2010, to be performed by a certified firm. The definition of "firm" includes federal
agencies. Therefore, if the employees of a federal agency are performing renovations, the agency must
be a certified firm and must follow the RRP Rule when performing the renovation.

Question (23002-15691)

Does the RRP Rule apply to renovations that disturb ceramic tile where the glaze on the tile contains lead
at regulated levels?

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Answer

No. Ceramic tile glaze is neither a surface coating nor a painted surface. Therefore, renovations that
disturb ceramic tile glaze are not subject to the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-19759)

My firm repairs windows in which the glass has been cracked or broken by removing and replacing the
sash. For casement windows, we unscrew and remove the hinges on the old window, pull out the old
sash, and install the new sash. For double-hung windows, we release the jambliner, pull out the sash
with the damaged glass, and install the new sash. We may disturb paint on the hinges and screws, but
do not otherwise disturb a painted surface. Is this work subject to the RRP Rule?

Answer

Replacement of a window sash by simply unscrewing hinges or releasing it from a jambliner does not
constitute "window replacement" for purposes of the RRP Rule. Therefore, such tasks may fit within the
definition of minor repair and maintenance i.e., activities that disturb six square feet or less of interior
painted surface, or twenty square feet or less of exterior painted surface.

If unscrewing a hinge or releasing a jambliner disturbs paint on the screws and/or hinges but does not
otherwise disturb a painted surface on the window sash, frame, casing, sill, trim or surrounding walls,
then the activity likely disturbs less than six square feet of painted surface and would not be subject to the
RRP Rule.

Question (23002-32207)

I am removing aluminum siding from a pre-1978 home. The aluminum siding was nailed over the top of
painted wood siding that tested positive for lead. The underlying painted surface is greater than twenty-
square feet. Must I comply with the Rule when removing the aluminum siding?

Answer:

The work practices for exterior projects are based on a performance standard - if the activity disturbs a
painted surface (generally, by creating paint chips or dust) in excess of 20 square feet, the work area
must be contained so that dust or debris does not leave the work area while the renovation is being
performed. In this case, if the removal of the aluminum siding results in the disturbance of paint in excess
of 20 square feet, then the RRP Rule applies. However, if the removal activity could be performed in
such a way that does not disturb 20 square feet of painted surface, then the RRP Rule would not apply.

EPA recognizes that this may be difficult to determine in advance of the renovation activity. However, the
renovator is the person with the expertise and experience to make this determination on a case-by-case
basis. In such a situation, a renovator should consider how factors like the condition of the underlying
paint, or the chosen method of removal may increase or decrease the likelihood for a disturbance of
paint. If there is still uncertainty, EPA recommends that renovators err on the side of caution and be
prepared to contain any dust and debris.

Question (23002-15692)

Does the RRP rule apply to simple painting activities that occur when rental properties turn over?
Approximately half of the rental units in the country get new tenants each year. This means a large
number of properties are being repeated.

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Answer

If there is no surface preparation that disturbs the existing paint prior to painting, the RRP Rule does not
apply. If you disturb paint by scraping or sanding while preparing the surface, the RRP Rule applies.

Question (23002-15696)

Does the RRP Rule apply where no paint at all is present, such as in a 100 year old unfinished
basement?

Answer

No. The RRP Rule applies to activities that result in the disturbance of painted surfaces. Where there is
no paint to disturb, the RRP Rule does not apply.

Definition of "Renovation"

Question (23002-22108)

What is a renovation?

Answer

The RRP Rule covers activities that modify an existing structure and that result in the disturbance of
painted surfaces. All types of repair, remodeling, maintenance, modernization, and weatherization
projects are covered, including projects performed as part of another Federal, State, or local program, if
the projects meet the definition of "renovation". The term "renovation" includes (but is not limited to):

• Removing, modifying or repairing painted surfaces or painted components. Examples include
modifying painted doors, surface restoration, window repair, and surface preparation activity like
sanding and scraping that may generate paint dust.

• Removing building components such as walls, ceilings, plumbing, or windows.

• Weatherization projects such as cutting holes in painted surfaces to install blown-in insulation or
to gain access to attics, or planing thresholds to install weather-stripping.

• Interim controls that disturb painted surfaces.

The RRP Program rule only applies to persons who perform renovations for compensation.

Question (23002-18426)

What is a "whole house gut rehabilitation project" for RRP purposes? What RRP requirements, if any,
apply during a whole house gut-rehabilitation project? If target housing has, at some point after 1978,
been gut-rehabbed, would the RRP Rule apply to subsequent renovations on the property?

Answer

The phrase "gut rehabilitation" may have different meanings across the construction industry. EPA,
however, used the phrase "whole house gut rehabilitation" in a very limited sense to describe only those
activities that demolish and rebuild a structure to a point where it is effectively new construction. At a
minimum, these activities include the removal and replacement of all interior and exterior painted
surfaces, including windows. The term should not be confused with a comprehensive renovation as
described in FQ 23002-23415.

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If an activity meets these narrow criteria (i.e., if a firm demolishes and rebuilds a structure to the extent
that it is effectively new construction), then the activity is not a renovation for purposes of the RRP Rule
and therefore not subject to any RRP requirements.

If, after 1978, target housing has been demolished and rebuilt to the extent that it is effectively new
construction, subsequent renovations on the property would also not be subject to the RRP Rule. In other
words, if target housing has been demolished and rebuilt to the extent that it is effectively new
construction, it is no longer target housing. Conversely, if only a portion of the target housing has
undergone a post-1978 modification (e.g., an overhaul of a kitchen or bathroom), then a subsequent
renovation would still be covered under the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-23415)

What RRP requirements apply to a comprehensive renovation project involving the removal and
replacement of all interior painted surfaces from target housing or a child-occupied facility?

Answer

A project that involves the removal and replacement of all interior painted surfaces but leaves all exterior
painted surfaces intact is considered a renovation for RRP purposes. Therefore, all requirements of the
RRP Rule apply including, but not limited to, those for firm and renovator certification, containment, waste
disposal, cleaning and verification, and recordkeeping. The type of activity described in the question
should not be confused with a "whole house gut-rehabilitation project" that effectively results in new
construction as discussed in FQ 23002-18426.

EPA has recognized the fact that there may be circumstances where it is impossible for firms to meet all
of the requirements under the RRP Rule. To the extent that performance of an RRP requirement would
be impossible, the firm is excused from compliance. However, impossibility of one work practice does not
excuse a firm from complying with other requirements. EPA further recommends that the firm document
and keep records of the specific circumstances surrounding the impossibility.

With respect to the comprehensive renovation activities described in the question, impossibilities may be
more prevalent. For example, during removal of a floor, covering the floor surface with taped-down
plastic sheeting as required by 40 CFR 745.85(a)(2)(i)(D) would be impossible. As described above, the
firm would be excused from this requirement. Nevertheless, the firm must still ensure that the work area
is properly contained. Windows, doors and ducts in the work area must be closed and covered.
Precautions must be taken to ensure that all personnel, tools, and other items are free of dust and debris
before leaving the work area. At the conclusion of each workday and at the conclusion of the renovation,
waste that has been collected from renovation activities must be stored under containment, in an
enclosure, or behind a barrier that prevents release of dust and debris out of the work area and prevents
access to dust and debris, and disposed of properly.

Following the renovation, the work area must also be cleaned until no dust, debris or residue remains. If
no more painted surfaces will be disturbed, then cleaning may take place after either removal of all
components, or after all new surfaces have been installed. Further, should cleaning or verification be
impossible to achieve (for example, due to the nature of the surfaces), a firm must still make their best
effort to collect and remove all paint chips, dust, debris and residue. See FQ 23002-15872.

Question (23002-13885)

Are Department of Energy weatherization projects covered under the RRP Rule?

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Answer

The RRP Rule defines "renovation" to include weatherization projects such as cutting holes in painted
surfaces to install blown-in insulation or to gain access to attics, and planing thresholds to install weather
stripping. Other types of weatherization projects, such as window replacement, are also be covered if
they fall within the definition of "renovation."

Question (23002-15670)

When a home or an apartment unit is repainted in preparation for a new tenant, is the painting activity
always considered a "renovation" for purposes of the pre-renovation education requirements even if no
surface preparation activity is performed prior to painting?

Answer

No. The primary determinant of whether a given activity constitutes a "renovation" under the RRP Rule is
whether that activity disturbs a painted surface. The practice of recoating painted surfaces in preparation
for new tenants would not constitute "renovation" unless accompanied by activities that disturb the
painted surface and create paint dust such as sanding, scraping, or other surface preparation activities.
Minor "spot" scraping or sanding can be considered "minor repair and maintenance activities" if no more
than 6 square feet of paint is disturbed in any room or no more than 20 square feet of paint on any
exterior to be painted, and the work does not involve practices prohibited by the Rule, such as power
sanding without a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter attachment. Washing walls or other
components prior to painting likely would not result in a disturbance of painted surface.

Question (23002-18485)

If I am painting a wall on which there are multiple coats of latex paint over the old lead-based paint and
the paint is not peeling down to the lead paint level must I comply with the new regulations?

Answer

Yes, if the painted surface of the wall will be disturbed by the renovation.

Question (23002-15680)

Does the RRP Rule apply to demolishing and disposing of:

•	An entire pre-1978 home or building?

•	An entire, non-attached free-standing structure on the same property such as a garage, shed, or
gazebo?

•	An attached but segregated section of pre-1978 home or building such as a sunroom, addition,
two-story porch, or garage attached by a breezeway?

Answer

The RRP Rule covers renovations, which are defined as modifications of existing structures or portions of
structures. The rule does not apply to demolitions of an entire free-standing building or structure.

The RRP Rule does apply to renovation activities that modify portions of existing structures. Waste from
these activities must be contained to prevent releases of dust and debris before the waste is removed
from the work area for storage or disposal. If a chute is used to remove waste from the work area, it must
be covered.

23

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At the conclusion of each workday and at the conclusion of the renovation, waste that has been collected
from renovation activities must be stored under containment, in an enclosure, or behind a barrier that
prevents release of dust and debris out of the work are and prevents access to dust and debris.

When the firm transports waste from renovation activities, the firm must contain the waste to prevent
release of dust and debris.

Question (23002-14867)

Can you list specific activities deemed a disturbance of painted surfaces?

Answer

As a general matter, EPA believes that activities that create dust or paint chips are activities that disturb
paint. There is no definitive list of activities that disturb painted surfaces. Some examples that can
disturb painted surfaces include, but are not limited to:

• Making cut-outs in walls.

• Replacing a window from the inside or outside.

• Removing paint with a heat gun.

• Scraping paint.

• Removing kitchen cabinets.

• Removing paint by abrasive sanding.

• Removal of large structures, including demolition of interior plaster walls.

• Window replacement.

• HVAC repair or replacement, including duct work.

• Repairs resulting in isolated small surface disruptions, including drilling and sawing into wood and
plaster.

• Scuff-sanding.

These activities and other activities which disturb paint could be relevant to many trades, such as (but not
limited to) renovation, remodeling, general repair, general maintenance, plumbing, electrical work,
carpentry, window installation, painting, weatherization work, and more.

Question (23002-18541)

My firm was hired to scrape and repaint siding on a pre-1978 home. The siding is relatively new and was
installed after 1978 but was nailed overtop of the old lead-based exterior paint. Does the RRP Rule
apply?

Answer

Yes. The RRP Rule applies to a renovation in target housing unless it has been determined that the
components affected by the renovation are free of paint or other surface coatings that contain lead equal
to or in excess of 1.0 milligram per square centimeter (mg/cm2) or 0.5% by weight. Even though you may
only disturb paint on the new siding, the RRP Rule applies unless a trained and certified person
determines that lead-based paint is not present on the surfaces being disturbed. This determination must
be made by a certified inspector, risk assessor or certified renovator using an EPA-recognized lead test
kit or paint chip sampling and lab analysis. Certified inspectors or risk assessors may also use additional
testing methodologies (i.e., XRF analysis, etc.) allowed under their certifications. See 40 CFR
745.82(a)(1). Certified inspectors and risk assessors may determine that a component does not contain
lead-based paint because it has been replaced or installed after 1978.

If the certified inspector, risk assessor or renovator determines that lead-based paint is not present, the
determination must be documented in accordance with the recordkeeping and reporting requirements of

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745.86(b)(1)(ii) and (iii), and 745.86(a) and (c), but the requirements of the RRP Rule do not otherwise
apply. See also FQ 23002-18220.

Question (23002-15683)

My firm is removing and replacing a furnace. The surface area of the old furnace exceeds six square
feet. Does the RRP Rule apply to this activity?

Answer

The RRP Rule applies to modifications of an existing structure, or portions thereof, that result in the
disturbance of painted surfaces. Fixtures such as furnaces, radiators and heating elements, as opposed
to personal property, are part of existing structures for RRP purposes.

In this case, if the surface coating of the furnace will not be disturbed when the furnace is removed, then
the RRP Rule does not apply. If the surface coating will be disturbed, then the RRP Rule applies absent
a determination pursuant to 40 CFR 745.82(a) that the furnace is free of lead-based paint.

Question (23002-18301)

If a homeowner removes all the painted surfaces in a room and then hires a certified firm to remodel the
room, does the renovator need to follow the RRP Rule?

Answer

No. Projects that do not disturb a painted surface are not subject to the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-19760)

My firm replaces garage doors. We unbolt the door from its hardware and remove it without penetrating,
scraping, or removing paint. Is this work subject to the RRP Rule?

Answer

If unbolting and removing the door does not disturb a painted surface in the hinges, door, or frame, the
RRP Rule does not apply. For more information on what types of activities disturb paint, go to the
following question: 23002-14867.

Question (23002-14025)

Are renovations that disturb stucco subject to the RRP Rule? Does it matter whether the stucco has been
painted?

Answer

The RRP Rule applies to work that disturbs painted surfaces. Therefore, renovations that disturb stucco
are subject to the RRP Rule only if the stucco has been painted.

Question (23002-23787)

When installing a roof, my firm does not create dust by directly sanding or cutting painted surfaces, but
we do hammer the unpainted side of the lumber from above. Does the RRP Rule apply to this work?

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Answer

The RRP Rule applies to work that disturbs painted surfaces. If hammering painted components, even
on the unpainted side, disturbs paint, creating dust or chips, the RRP Rule applies.

Question (23002-15689)

Does the RRP Rule apply to removing a roof that is not painted?

Answer

The RRP Rule applies to work that disturbs painted surfaces. Where there is no paint to disturb, the RRP
Rule does not apply.

Question (23002-19751)

My firm installs replacement doors. We simply remove the hinge bolts, take away the old door, unscrew
and remove the hinges, and install the new door and hinges. We may disturb paint on the hinges and
bolts but do not otherwise disturb a painted surface. Is this work subject to the RRP Rule?

Answer

Because doors are not cut-outs, the entire surface area is not counted for purposes of calculating the six
square feet threshold of minor maintenance and repair—unless removing the door also disturbs any paint
on the door (e.g., because of the deteriorated condition of the paint or any dust-generating activities).
Therefore, if unbolting and unscrewing a door disturbs paint only on the bolts, screws and/or hinges, but
does not otherwise disturb a painted surface on the door, frame, trim or surrounding walls, then the
activity likely disturbs less than six square feet of painted surface and would not be subject to the RRP
Rule.

Question (23002-31781)

My firm has been hired to replace windows in a home built before 1978. The existing windows are mil-
finish (ie: not painted) aluminum. We plan to use the "insert" method of replacement where we remove
the existing sash and attach the new window's frames inside the old frames. Because we will not disturb a
painted surface (our work remains inside the mil finished aluminum), is this activity subject to the RRP
ruling?

Answer

No. The activity described above does not disturb a painted surface. Therefore, the requirements of the
RRP Rule do not apply.

Minor Repair and Maintenance Activities
Question (23002-18381)

If a renovator disrupts six square feet or less of painted surface per room in several rooms inside one
property, does the RRP Rule apply?

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Answer

No, as long as no prohibited work practices are used and the work does not involve window replacement
or demolition of painted surfaces. The exception to the RRP rule for work that disrupts six square feet or
less of painted surface applies to each individual room and is inclusive of all work done in the room in any
30-day period.

Question (23002-18379)

If a renovator disrupts 20 square feet or less of painted surface per side on several sides of the exterior of
one property, does the RRP Rule apply?

Answer

Yes. To qualify for the exception for minor repair and maintenance activities, the total amount of exterior
paint disrupted must be 20 square feet or less. In addition, the job must not use prohibited practices or
involve window replacement or demolition of painted surfaces.

Question (23002-19749)

My firm installs carpets. Sometimes there is no need to remove an existing carpet before installing the
new carpet, but sometimes there is. How do I know when I need to comply with the RRP Rule?

Answer

If when installing the carpet, you disrupt six square feet or less of painted surface per room, the job is not
covered by the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-18484)

If I am insulating a multi-family building, does the standard for interiors of six square feet or less of
disrupted painted surface, or the standard for exteriors of 20 square feet or less of disrupted painted
surface apply to the whole building or can it be applied to each separate unit?

Answer

For interiors, the exception for work that disrupts six square feet or less of painted surface applies to each
individual room and is inclusive of all work done in the room in any 30-day period. For exteriors, to qualify
for the exception for minor repair and maintenance activities, the total amount of exterior paint disrupted
must be 20 square feet or less. In addition, the job must not use prohibited practices or involve window
replacement or demolition of painted surfaces.

Question (23002-15677)

Does the minor maintenance exception mean that if I drill one-inch holes in a painted surface to blow
insulation into an enclosed wall cavity, I could drill 864 holes in the interior or 2880 holes on the exterior
before I had to comply with the RRP Rule? Or does it mean that the work is covered by the RRP Rule
once I insulate more than 6 square feet of interior wall area (basically one hole) or more than 20 square
feet of exterior wall area?

Answer

The exception is based on the area of paint disrupted, which in this example is based on the combined
areas of the holes drilled in the wall.

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Question (23002-18429)

If an electrician or plumber, working in a different room from the contained renovation project, needs to
drill or cut a hole six square feet or less in size to chase a wire or pipe, does the RRP rule apply to that
work?

Answer

As long as six square feet or less of painted surface in that room is disrupted with 30 days, including the
work done by the electrician or plumber, and the job does not use prohibited practices or involve window
replacement or demolition of painted surfaces, the minor repair and maintenance exception to the RRP
rule applies.

Question (23002-18383)

If a renovator removes less than six square feet of crown molding, is that considered demolition? Does it
matter whether the molding will be discarded, replaced with new molding, or reinstalled?

Answer

It depends on how the molding is removed. If a renovation activity removes or otherwise disrupts a
painted component in a way that destroys or ruins the component, the activity is a demolition.

Question (23002-18515)

If I use a hammer to make a hole is a wall that is two feet on each side, does the RRP Rule apply?

Answer

Yes. Although making the hole disrupts less than six square feet of painted surface, using a hammer to
make the hole is demolition of the surface, so the minor repair and maintenance exception does not
apply. Making the hole using a cut-out technique that does not destroy the section of the wall that is
removed is not demolition, and the minor repair and maintenance exception would apply.

Question (23002-19724)

My company installs new or replacement seamless gutters. We install the gutters using self-tapping 3/16"
to %" screws and the cumulative size of the total number of holes is only a couple of square inches. If the
job does not involve sanding, scraping, repainting, repair, replacement or reconditioning of the fascia
surface, is it covered by the RRP Rule?

Answer

Minor repair and maintenance activities are not subject to the requirements of the RRP Rule. For exterior
renovations, minor repair and maintenance activities are those activities that disrupt 20 square feet or
less of painted surface, and do not use prohibited practices or involve window replacement or demolition
of painted surfaces.

If the job described, when combined with other renovation work on the exterior of the building, does not
disrupt more than 20 square feet of painted surface, and does not use prohibited practices or involve
window replacement or demolition of painted surfaces, it is a minor repair and maintenance activity that is
not subject to the requirements of the RRP rule.

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Question (23002-19163)

Is replacing a pane of glass or fixing a broken window balancer a renovation covered by the RRP Rule?

Answer

It depends. Replacing a pane of glass or fixing a broken window balancer can disturb paint. If the job
disrupts more than six square feet of painted surface per room, the job is not considered minor repair and
maintenance and it is covered by the RRP Rule. When removing a component, calculate the six-square
foot area based on the surface area of the component.

Question (23002-15404)

Does drilling holes in window frames to install window treatments such as shades and shutters qualify as
minor repair and maintenance?

Answer

Yes, as long as the installation does not disturb more than six square feet of painted surface per room
within a 30-day period.

Question (23002-14294)

As a floor covering installer I use an undercut saw to remove a small amount of wood at the bottom of
baseboards and door casings. I am only disturbing the paint in the 1/8 inch cut of the blade. How do I
calculate the area of the paint that is affected for purposes of the minor repair and maintenance
provision?

Answer

A job is considered minor repair and maintenance, rather than a renovation covered by the RRP Rule, if it
disrupts six square feet or less of painted surface per room in a 30-day period. Calculate the area of
painted surface disrupted based on the surface area of the component that is disrupted. For example,
cutting a 1-inch strip off a door that is 36 inches wide would disrupt 36 square inches of painted surface,
regardless of the width of the cut made by the saw blade.

Question (23002-23857)

When replacing an old wood door and frame with a new steel entry door and frame, how do I determine
whether the job qualifies as a minor repair and maintenance activity? Do I calculate the amount of
painted surface disrupted using the standard for interior renovations (six square feet or less in the room
where the door is located) or for exterior renovations (20 square feet or less)?

Answer

If replacing the door and frame disrupts more than 6 square feet of interior painted surface in the room
where the door is located, or more than 20 square feet on the exterior of the building, the job does not
qualify as a minor repair and maintenance activity, and the RRP Rule applies. Calculate the area of
painted surface disrupted based on the surface area of the component that is disrupted. In addition, to
qualify as a minor repair and maintenance activity, the job must not use prohibited practices or involve
window replacement or demolition of painted surfaces.

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Question (23002-31779)

My firm removes and replaces garage doors. The garage doors are typically made up of multiple panels,
each of which has an exterior painted surface area of less than 20 square feet. Aggregated, the exterior
painted surface area of all the panels exceeds 20 square feet. If we disturb the paint on just one of the
door panels, is that activity subject to the RRP Rule?

Answer

An activity that disturbs less than 20 square feet of exterior painted surface and otherwise meets the
definition of minor repair and maintenance is not subject to the RRP Rule. However, the RRP Rule
provides that when removing painted components, or portions of painted components, the entire surface
area removed is the amount of painted surface disturbed.

In this case, application of the RRP Rule is dependent on how much of the garage dooryour firm intends
to remove and replace. If you disturb a painted surface on a single panel while removing and replacing
the entire garage door (i.e., all the panels), you must aggregate the surface area of all the panels.
Similarly, if you disturb a painted surface on a single panel while removing and replacing more than one
panel, you must aggregate the surface area of those panels being removed to determine whether or not
the RRP Rule applies. If, however, you disturb a painted surface on a single panel while removing and
replacing only that panel, and the activity disturbs less than 20 square feet of exterior painted surface and
otherwise meets the definition of minor repair and maintenance (e.g., not demolition or using prohibited
practices), such an activity would be considered minor repair and maintenance, and therefore would not
be subject to the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-32366)

Please provide guidance on how the Agency will interpret the term "minor repair and maintenance
activities." Is the replacement of a window measuring less than six square feet considered minor repair
and maintenance? If I use a torch to burn off less than 20 square feet of paint on exterior fixtures, is that
considered minor repair and maintenance? What does EPA mean by demolition? How is the size of the
disrupted surface calculated? If I sand five square feet of paint on one wall on one day, and five square
feet on a different wall in the same room on the next day, are both projects considered minor repair and
maintenance?

Answer

"Minor repair and maintenance" is defined in 40 CFR 745.83 as activities that disrupt less than 6 square
feet or less of painted surface per room for interior activities or 20 square feet or less of painted surface
for exterior activities where none of the work practices prohibited or restricted by § 745.85(a)(3) are used
and where the work does not involve window replacement or demolition of painted surface areas. Even if
an entire window measures less than six square feet, the replacement of any size window is a renovation,
not minor repair and maintenance, because it is specifically excluded from the definition of "minor repair
and maintenance." Similarly, because torch burning is prohibited by 745.85(a)(3), no activity involving
torch burning can be considered minor repair and maintenance. For the purposes of the definition of
minor repair and maintenance, EPA considers demolition to be an activity that removes or otherwise
disrupts a painted component in a way that destroys or ruins the component.

The definition of "minor repair and maintenance" provides some guidance on how to measure the surface
disrupted: "When removing painted components, or portions of painted components, the entire surface
area removed is the amount of painted surface disturbed." In other cases, when painted surfaces are
being disturbed or disrupted, but not completely removed, the disrupted surface area is the area being
actively disturbed. For example, when spot sanding to prepare a surface for painting, the area of the
surface that was actually sanded is the surface area disrupted.

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Finally, the definition of "minor repair and maintenance" states that "jobs, other than emergency
renovations, performed in the same room within the same 30 days must be considered the same job for
the purpose of determining whether the job is a minor repair and maintenance activity." Therefore,
sanding five square feet of paint in the same room on two different days within the same 30-day period
must be considered the same job, which would be a renovation because it does not meet the definition of
"minor repair and maintenance."

Renovations for Compensation
Question (23002-32214)

Is work done by friends, a brother-in-law, or volunteers covered by the RRP Rule if no one is
compensated?

Answer

No. The RRP Rule only applies to renovations performed for compensation. Compensation includes pay
for work performed, such as that paid to contractors and subcontractors; wages, such as those paid to
employees of contractors, building owners, property management companies, child-occupied facility
operators, State and local government agencies, and non-profits; and rent for target housing or public or
commercial building space.

Even if you are not required to comply with the RRP Rule, it is important to be aware that renovation
activities can create hazardous lead dust and chips. The key to protecting yourself and your family during
renovation is to use lead-safe work practices. Information on these practices is available in the EPA Small
Entity Compliance Guide to Renovate Right, available in English and Spanish by visiting
https://www.epa.gov/lead/small-entitv-compliance-guide-renovate-right-epas-lead-based-paint-
renovati o irt - ire pa i r-a irt d.

Question (23002-19773)

My non-profit home repair organization performs renovations using mostly volunteers. We do some
painting and scraping but we do mostly roof repair and interior work (bathrooms, kitchens, etc.).

Obviously, we want to be in compliance with the law and we want our volunteers, staff and homeowners
to be safe. Equally, we want to make sure that we are able to continue to offer this valuable service to
our community. Is my organization's work covered by the RRP Rule?

Answer

The RRP rule covers renovations performed for compensation. If the organization is compensating
anyone for the work (for example, a paid supervisor), then the renovation is covered by the RRP Rule.
This is the case even though the organization has non-profit status.

The organization may also need to become certified as a firm. Beginning April 22, 2010, an organization
that performs, offers, or claims to perform renovations covered by the RRP Rule must be certified by
EPA. A non-profit organization that offers to renovate the property of a third party for compensation, or
that performs the renovation, must be certified as a firm. The organization must comply with all the
requirements of the rule that apply to firms performing renovations. This includes having a certified
renovator direct the work and provide on-the-job training to all uncertified workers, including volunteers.

Question (23002-17957)

How will the RRP Rule affect the work of non-profit or not-for-profit groups? Will the rule apply, for
example, to church groups who, as part of their missionary work, are making improvements for low-
income residents?

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Answer

The RRP Rule applies to renovations performed for compensation. Compensation includes pay for work
performed, such as that paid to contractors and subcontractors; wages, such as those paid to employees
of contractors, building owners, property management companies, child-occupied facility operators, State
and local government agencies, and non-profits; and rent for target housing or public or commercial
building space. Donations, including donations of materials or of the time of volunteers, are not
compensation. If the organization is compensating anyone for the work (for example, a paid supervisor),
then the renovation is covered by the RRP Rule. This is the case even though the organization has non-
profit or not-for-profit status.

Question (23002-18382)

If a renovator is only reimbursed for materials, would that be considered compensation?

Answer

No. Compensation includes pay for work performed, such as that paid to contractors and subcontractors;
wages, such as those paid to employees of contractors, building owners, property management
companies, child-occupied facility operators, State and local government agencies, and non-profits; and
rent for target housing or public or commercial building space. Reimbursement for the cost of materials is
not compensation.

Question (23002-23856)

When repainting rental housing, if the landlord supplies the paint and materials, and the tenant does the
labor without receiving money, credit toward rent, or other compensation, does the RRP Rule apply?

Answer

No. The RRP Rule only applies to renovations performed for compensation.

Question (23002-19765)

My local community has formed a "Long Term Recovery Committee" to assist in the rebuilding and
recovery efforts following a natural disaster. The committee, which is a coalition of member agencies
from the faith community, nonprofit agencies, government programs, businesses and individual donors,
gathers monetary and material donations and provides assistance to families with unmet needs via
volunteer work crews and/or contracted skilled labor. Are the rebuilding and recovery efforts organized
by this committee subject to the RRP Rule?

Answer

It depends. Renovation activities that are performed for free by committee volunteers are not covered
under the Rule because they are not "renovations performed for compensation." Donations, such as
donations of materials or of the time of volunteers, are not compensation. Conversely, renovation
activities that are performed by renovators or firms who are compensated for their services are subject to

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all requirements under the Rule. This applies if the committee is compensating anyone for the work (ex.
a paid supervisor), even if the committee has non-profit or not-for-profit status.

Question (23002-32412)

I have a for-profit business where I purchase residential properties and renovate them. I initially try to
rent the property, but if I can't find tenants, then I try to sell the property. I pay for and perform all of the
work myself, and keep all profits from the sale or lease. Is this type of renovation work on pre-1978
properties covered by the Renovation Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule?

Answer

Yes. Individuals who buy, renovate, and sell pre-1978 residential properties for a profit (i.e., house
flippers) or lease pre-1978 residential properties (i.e., landlords), and do the renovation work themselves,
are performing renovations for compensation and are therefore subject to all requirements under the RRP
Rule. You must be a trained and certified renovator in order to perform the work, and certified as a lead-
safe firm. See FQ #23002-18512 for more information related to landlords performing their own
renovations in pre-1978 housing.

Similarly, businesses that buy, renovate, and sell pre-1978 residential properties and use their own
employees to do the renovation work are performing renovations for compensation and are subject to all
requirements under the RRP Rule. The business must be a lead-safe certified firm, and employ at least
one certified renovator to perform the covered renovations.

However, individuals or businesses that buy, renovate, and sell pre-1978 residential properties (i.e., flip
houses) do not need to be certified if they hire an outside renovation firm to perform all the work. The
outside renovation firm hired must be a lead-safe certified firm, perform the renovation using a trained
and certified renovator, and is otherwise responsible for meeting all work practice and recordkeeping
requirements.

Target Housing
Question (23002-17116)

How does a firm or renovator document or confirm the age of the structure? Is a signed statement by the
occupant sufficient? Can publicly available information such as tax records, etc. be sufficient?

Answer

Renovation firms are responsible for determining the age of the property. The property owner is likely to
be a good source of information on the age of a home or other building, but the firm may not rely on the
statement of the property owner as to the construction date of the building if there is evidence to the
contrary. If in doubt, renovation firms can use tax assessments, property records, and similar information
to determine the date of construction. Finally, the renovation firm may always assume that a home or
child-occupied facility was constructed before 1978.

Question (23002-15716)

Does the term "target housing" mean just low-income housing, or any home built before 1978 regardless
of the financial status of the occupants?

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Answer

"Target housing" means any housing constructed prior to 1978, except housing for the elderly or persons
with disabilities (unless any child who is less than six years of age resides or is expected to reside in such
housing) or any 0-bedroom dwelling. The income of the occupants of the housing is not relevant.

Question (23002-18146)

I understand that the RRP Rule does not apply to housing for the elderly. Does this term refer to specific
built houses in 55+ communities or does it refer to all residential homes with this demographic living
there?

Answer

"Housing for the elderly" means retirement communities or similar types of housing reserved for
households composed of one or more persons 62 years of age or more at the time of initial occupancy.
Housing for the elderly is not subject to the RRP Rule unless a child who is less than six years of age
resides or is expected to reside in the housing.

Question (23002-18144)

I understand that the RRP rule does not apply to dormitories. Does the rule apply to a unit of student
housing made up of two bedrooms, a living room, and kitchen?

Answer

Yes. While the RRP rule does not apply to zero-bedroom housing, the type of housing described is not
zero-bedroom housing. Zero-bedroom housing means a residential dwelling in which the living area is
not separated from the sleeping area. Examples include efficiencies, studio apartments, and dormitory
housing. In the example given, the bedrooms provide sleeping areas that are separate from the living
area, so the housing does not meet the definition of zero-bedroom housing and the RRP rule applies.

Question (23002-17978)

I am a contractor a couple years from retirement and I am closing down my business. I do not plan to
become certified under the RRP Rule. My understanding is that I can continue working on homes built
after 1978?

Answer

The RRP Rule does not apply to renovations in housing built in 1978 or later.

Question (23002-19840)

Older hotels built before 1978 are knocking down walls, combining two hotel rooms, and making their
units two-room or even three-room suites. My understanding has been that single hotel rooms are
considered zero-bedroom dwellings. Does the RRP Rule apply when one-room units are converted to
two-room suites?

Answer

Yes. A renovation performed for the purpose of converting a building, or part of a building, into target
housing or a child-occupied facility is a renovation for purposes of the RRP Rule.

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Hotel suites that provide a sleeping area that is separate from the living area are covered by the RRP
Rule because they are not zero-bedroom dwellings. A zero-bedroom dwelling is a residential dwelling in
which the living area is not separated from the sleeping area. The term includes efficiencies, studio
apartments, dormitory housing, military barracks, and rentals of individual rooms in residential dwellings.

Question (23002-22024)

What is "housing for persons with disabilities"?

Answer

"Housing for persons with disabilities" means housing that is designed to meet the special needs of
persons with disabilities and that is reserved for such persons. A person with a disability may include a
person who has a disability attributable to a mental or physical impairment, or a person with a chronic
mental illness. EPA recommends that you check with state or local housing authorities if it is unclear
whether a particular property meets this definition.

Question (23002-22148)

What is a studio apartment?

Answer

A studio apartment is an apartment in which the living area is not separated from the sleeping area.

Question (23002-18378)

If a renovation is taking place in a home built in 1950, but in an addition that was built in 1980, does the
RRP Rule apply to the renovation?

Answer

For purposes of the RRP Rule, only a certified renovator, inspector or risk assessor can make this
determination. Certified renovators must base their findings on the results of an EPA-recognized lead
test kit or paint chip sampling. See 40 CFR 745.82(a)(2) and (3). Certified inspectors or risk assessors
may also base their findings on the results of an EPA-recognized lead test kit, or can use the additional
testing methodologies (ex. XRF analysis, etc.) allowed under their certifications. See 40 CFR
745.82(a)(1). Notably, certified inspectors and risk assessors may determine that a component does not
contain lead-based paint because it has been replaced after 1978.

Any firm performing paint chip sampling or testing for the presence lead-based paint for RRP purposes
must keep a copy of the written determination and make the records available to EPA if requested.

Question (23002-14024)

Are renovations in short-term lodgings, such as hotels and motels, time share properties, and homeless
shelters, covered by the RRP Rule?

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Answer

Yes, if the property renovated is not a zero-bedroom dwelling. A zero-bedroom dwelling is a residential
dwelling in which the living area is not separated from the sleeping area. The term includes efficiencies,
studio apartments, dormitory housing, military barracks, and rentals of individual rooms in residential
dwellings.

The short-term nature of a property's occupancy does not in itself exempt it from the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-15690)

Does the RRP Rule apply to renovations in mobile homes?

Answer

Yes, if the mobile home meets the definition of target housing. "Target housing" is any housing
constructed before 1978, except housing for the elderly or persons with disabilities (unless any child who
is less than six years of age resides or is expected to reside in the housing), or a zero-bedroom dwelling.
A zero-bedroom dwelling is a residential dwelling in which the living area is not separated from the
sleeping area.

Question (23002-31782)

Are renovations performed on detached garages, sheds and other detached outbuildings on the property
subject to the RRP Rule?

Answer

Yes. EPA interprets target housing to include pre-1978 buildings or structures that are (1) located on the
residential portion of the property, and (2) associated with the residential use of the property. As a
practical matter, the entire property of most urban and suburban residential lots is normally considered to
be associated with residential use.

In the case of real property that is used for nonresidential as well as residential purposes, a judgment
should be made as to which part of the property is associated with residential use. For example, if the
structure is in such close proximity that the renovation would pose a risk to those using the property for
residential purposes, the structure would be considered associated with the residential use of the property
and the RRP Rule would apply.

Question (23002-31783)

My firm plans on doing renovation work on a storage building which is detached from, but a part of, an
apartment complex. The apartment complex was constructed prior to 1978 and would be considered
target housing. The storage building, however, was constructed after 1978. Will our work on the storage
building be covered under the RRP Rule?

Answer

The RRP Rule does not apply to renovations of a detached post-1978 building or structure, even if the
building or structure is located on the residential portion of the property or associated with the residential
use of the property.

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Question (23002-32492)

Are prison facilities and juvenile detention centers built before 1978 considered target housing?

Answer

Target housing means any housing constructed prior to 1978. Certain parts of prison facilities and
juvenile detention centers that house incarcerated persons are housing. However, as a practical matter,
EPA believes that the most parts of prisons and juvenile detention centers that would be considered
housing are also zero-bedroom dwellings (i.e., a residential dwelling in which the living area is not
separated from the sleeping area) and therefore not subject to the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-32518)

Does zoning affect the target housing determination? For example, would a pre-1978 house that is
zoned for commercial or office use, but used for residential purposes be considered target housing?

Answer

In determining whether a pre-1978 property is target housing, it is the actual or intended use of the
property that matters, not its zoning classification. Therefore, a pre-1978 house that is used or intended
to be used as a residence, even if only temporary, is target housing regardless of its zoning classification.
The actual or intended use of a property is often made apparent by the type of building features it
contains. Residential use, for example, is likely when the building contains a kitchen, bathroom(s),
bedroom(s), living room, etc.

Question (23002-32519)

How would RRP classify a pre-1978 property that is used for both residential and non-residential
purposes? For example, would RRP apply to renovations in a pre-1978 house that is partially used as a
residence and partially used as a legitimate commercial business?

Answer

EPA has interpreted target housing to include pre-1978 buildings or structures that are (1) located on the
residential portion of the property, and (2) associated with the residential use of the property. In other
words, if a portion of residential property is used for nonresidential purposes, the portion will nonetheless
be considered target housing if it is associated with residential use. The portion would be considered
associated with the residential use of the property if it is in such close proximity that the renovation would
pose a risk to those using the property for residential purposes.

In the above example, if the room or structure containing the commercial business was (1) on the
residential portion of the property, and (2) was in such close proximity to the residential use of the
property that a renovation would pose a risk to the residents, the room or structure would be considered
target housing and the RRP Rule would apply.

Question (23002-33291)

Are sleeping areas in building built before 1978, such as those in fire and police stations, considered
target housing?

Answer

Firehouses and police stations are not target housing. Therefore, places of temporary rest for employees
in these buildings, such as sleeping rooms, are not subject to the RRP Rule.

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Question (23002-33649)

How do the RRP requirements apply to renovations on a pre-1978 building that contains both multi-room
apartments (i.e., target housing) and zero-bedroom dwellings?

Answer

In pre-1978 buildings that contain a mix of target housing and zero-bedroom dwellings, the RRP rule
applies only to renovations performed in target housing and common areas. Common areas are those
portions of a property generally accessible to residents/users of target housing, and can exist on both the
interior and exterior of the building. They include, but are not limited to, hallways, stairways, laundry and
recreational rooms, playgrounds, community centers and boundary fences.

Therefore, in a building that contains both multi-room apartments (i.e., target housing) and zero-bedroom
dwellings (i.e., non-target housing), the RRP Rule applies to renovations in the multi-room apartments
and to renovations on those portions of the property that are generally accessible to all residents/users of
the building. The RRP rule does not apply to work performed in the zero-bedroom dwellings.

Child-Occupied Facilities
Question (23002-18778)

Is a health care facility or hospital covered under the RRP Rule if it meets the definition of a child-
occupied facility?

Answer

Yes. The RRP Rule defines a child-occupied facility as a building, or portion of a building, constructed
prior to 1978, visited regularly by the same child, under six years of age, on at least two different days
within any week (Sunday through Saturday period), provided that each day's visit lasts at least three
hours and the combined weekly visits last at least six hours, and the combined annual visits last at least
60 hours.

Question (23002-18212)

If a building contains a child-occupied facility, must all renovations in the building follow the RRP Rule?

Answer

Not necessarily. "Child-occupied facility" means a building, or portion of a building, constructed prior to
1978, visited regularly by the same child, under six years of age, on at least two different days within any
week (Sunday through Saturday period), provided that each day's visit lasts at least three hours and the
combined weekly visits last at least six hours, and the combined annual visits last at least 60 hours.
Child-occupied facilities may include, but are not limited to, day care centers, preschools and
kindergarten classrooms. Child-occupied facilities may be located in target housing or in public or
commercial buildings.

With respect to common areas in public or commercial buildings that contain child-occupied facilities, the
child-occupied facility encompasses only those common areas that are routinely used by children under
age six, such as restrooms and cafeterias. Common areas that children under age six only pass through,
such as hallways, stairways, and garages are not included. In addition, with respect to exteriors of public
or commercial buildings that contain child-occupied facilities, the child-occupied facility encompasses only

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the exterior sides of the building that are immediately adjacent to the child-occupied facility or the
common areas routinely used by children under age six.

Areas of a building that fall outside this definition are not "child-occupied facilities" for purposes of the
RRP rule.

Question (23002-22691)

What is the definition of a child under six years of age?

Answer

A child under six years of age is a child that is less than 72 months old.

Question (23002-13611)

A child's consecutive visits to a particular building (such as a hospital) can technically qualify that building
as a child-occupied facility, even if the visits were an isolated or rare event. How long does such a
building remain a child-occupied facility?

Answer

A building, or portion of a building, is defined as a child-occupied facility when visited regularly by the
same child, under six years of age, on at least two different days within any week, provided that each
day's visit lasts at least three hours and the combined weekly visits last at least six hours, and the
combined annual visits last at least 60 hours. The determination of whether a building is a child-occupied
facility (i.e., whether a child under age six regularly visits the building as set forth above) requires an
accounting of annual visits. Therefore, whenever a building meets the definition of a child-occupied
facility, it remains so for at least a period of one year. After that period, it may be determined that the
building no longer meets the definitions of a child-occupied facility.

Question (23002-33342)

What is a child-occupied facility?

Answer

A child-occupied facility is a building, or a portion of a building, constructed prior to 1978, visited regularly
by the same child, under six years of age, on at least two different days within any week (Sunday through
Saturday period), provided that each day's visit lasts at least three hours and the combined weekly visits
last at least six hours, and the combined annual visits last at least 60 hours. Child-occupied facilities may
be located in public or commercial buildings or in target housing.

Testing Painted Components
Question (23002-18782)

Is a lead-based paint inspection, performed by a certified inspector or risk assessor, that includes a
written determination that various building components are free of paint or other surface coatings
containing lead equal to or in excess of 1.0 milligrams per square centimeter (mg/cm2) or 0.5% by weight
sufficient to determine compliance with requirements of the RRP rule?

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Answer

The RRP Rule does not apply to target housing where a certified inspector or risk assessor has
determined that the components affected by the renovation are free of regulated lead-based paint or that
a property is free of lead-based paint for the purposes of the Lead Disclosure Rule.

The RRP Rule does not require certified inspectors or certified risk assessors to test each and every
component that will be affected by a renovation. Certified inspectors or risk assessors are free to conduct
representative sampling, so long as the components to be tested are chosen in accordance with
documented methodologies, such as the HUD Guidelines. However, because certified renovator training
does not cover representative sampling protocols, certified renovators using EPA-recognized lead test
kits or performing paint chip sampling to determine the applicability of the RRP Rule must test each and
every component that will be affected in order to determine that the RRP Rule does not apply to a
particular renovation.

Question (23002-18015)

I am an owner/agent for an apartment community built prior to 1978. In 2004, testing of a random sample
of units was completed by a certified testing firm. The results were negative for lead paint but positive for
lead dust. With the positive lead dust result, are we required to comply with the RRP Rule?

Answer

No. As long as the determination that the units are free of lead-based paint was made by an inspector or
risk assessor certified by EPA or by an authorized State or Tribal program, renovations in the building are
not covered by the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-32215)

When testing a property for the presence of lead prior to beginning a renovation using an EPA-recognized
lead test kit, must I test every component affected by the renovation?

Answer

Yes. Because certified renovator training does not cover sampling protocols, certified renovators using
EPA-recognized lead test kits or performing paint chip sampling to determine the applicability of the RRP
Rule must test each and every component that will be affected in order to determine that the RRP Rule
does not apply to a particular renovation.

Question (23002-18218)

If a certified inspector or risk assessor determines that a component was installed post-1978 and is
therefore free of lead-based paint, can the renovation firm rely on this determination?

Answer

Yes, as long as the renovation firm has obtained a copy of the determination. The firm must retain a copy
of the determination for three years after completion of the renovation.

Question (23002-18347)

If a property is tested by a certified renovator, inspector, or risk assessor and found to be free of lead-
based paint, does any testing need to be done again if work is done on the property several years later?

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Answer

Where a certified renovator uses an EPA-recognized lead test kit or performs paint chip sampling to
determine that a component is free of lead-based paint, or a lead-based paint free determination is made
by a certified inspector or risk assessor, firms performing renovations on the same components may rely
on these results as long as the records are still available. Lead-based paint free determinations by a
certified inspector or risk assessor are valid for both the Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule and
the RRP Rule and they do not expire.

Question (23002-33377)

I'm a certified renovator using an EPA-recognized lead test kit to determine whether or not I have to
follow the Renovation Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule work practices. What components must test
negative for lead-based paint in order to qualify for the exclusion in 40 CFR 745.82(a)(2)?

Answer

Generally, a certified renovator using an EPA-recognized lead test kit must test each building component
to be disturbed. The only exception to this requirement is when the components make up an integrated
whole. In such a case, one or more component(s) may represent a system of components, unless it is
obvious to the renovator that the components have been repainted or refinished separately.

A staircase, for example, is made up of numerous repeating components which can be grouped together
as integrated wholes for testing purposes. For these purposes, staircase components can be grouped
into the following integrated wholes: (1) treads and risers, (2) balustrades, (3) newel posts, (4) railing
caps, and (5) stringers. A single individual staircase component (e.g., a baluster) may represent the
remaining staircase components of the same group (i.e., the rest of the balustrades on the staircase)
unless it is obvious to the renovator that the components have been repainted or refinished separately.
Therefore, where an entire staircase is to be disturbed, EPA believes it will be necessary to test five
surfaces: one tread or riser, one balustrade, one newel post, one railing cap, and one exposed stringer.
So long as it is not obvious that the components have been repainted or refinished separately, a negative
test for lead-based paint on an individual staircase component in each of these groups would mean that a
renovation on that particular staircase could be performed without regard to the RRP work practices.

EPA also believes it appropriate to apply the integrated whole concept to windows and doors. For testing
purposes, window and door components can be grouped into the following integrated wholes: (1) the
window or door assembly and (2) the window or door trim. Window assembly components include the
sashes, stops, head, jambs, sill or stool, and trough; door assembly components include the door slab(s),
jambs, head, sill and threshold. As a practical matter, it is likely that interior and exterior surfaces of
window and door assemblies were repainted or refinished separately and should be tested separately.
Therefore, where both the window/door assembly and trim will be disturbed (e.g., a full-frame
window/door replacement), EPA believes that it will be necessary to test four surfaces: one interior
window/door assembly component, one interior window/door trim, one exterior window/door assembly
component, and one exterior window/door trim. However, if you only disturb paint on the interior or
exterior of a window then you only need to test the assembly and trim on that side. If it is not obvious that
the components have been repainted or refinished separately, a negative test for lead-based paint on a
component in each of these groups would mean that a renovation on that particular window or door could
be performed without regard to the RRP work practices.

NOTE: Each window, door and staircase to be disturbed must be separately tested, even if in the same
room. Also, negative testing results must still be documented in accordance with the recordkeeping and
reporting requirements of 745.86(b)(1)(ii) and (iii), and 745.86(a) and (c). See also FQ 23002-18220.

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Emergency Renovations

Question (23002-37000)

A home sustained flooding as a result of a hurricane. Once the flood water recedes, my firm must make
the necessary renovations including tearing out wet drywall before mold begins to grow. How do the
record keeping requirements apply to an emergency renovation? How should my firm fill out the record
keeping checklist if not all of the requirements are followed?

Answer

Emergency renovations (other than interim controls performed in response to a child with an elevated
blood lead level) are exempt from the training, certification, sign posting, waste handling and containment
requirements of the RRP Rule only to the extent necessary to respond to the emergency. Firms must
nonetheless comply with the cleaning requirements (performed by certified renovators and trained
workers), cleaning verification (performed by certified renovators), and record keeping requirements of the
RRP Rule.

The RRP Rule's record keeping provision recognizes that records kept for an emergency renovation may
very well differ from a more typical renovation. Specifically, if the renovation firm was unable to comply
with all of the requirements of the RRP Rule due to an emergency, the firm must document the nature of
the emergency and the provisions of the rule that were not followed, in addition to the other rule
provisions that must be documented for an emergency renovation. For example, if the firm did not post
warning signs or remove or cover all objects in the work area, it should clearly state in its records that
these activities were not followed due to the emergency. With regard to the record keeping checklist, the
firm should leave unchecked each task that was not performed due to the emergency. The
documentation of the nature of the emergency and the work practices that were not followed may be
written as a notation on the checklist, for example, or otherwise recorded (e.g., by attaching it to the
checklist).

Although the emergency provision exempts certain RRP work practices, firms should perform as many of
these lead-safe work practices as possible when conducting activities that must be immediately
undertaken to respond to the emergency. For example, if the firm can contain the work area and still
address the emergency, it should do so. Once the urgent safety and public health hazards and threats of
significant property damage have been attended to (e.g., when the wet drywall is removed in the above
scenario) the emergency provision can no longer be utilized and any additional renovation activities would
be subject to all the requirements of the rule.

Question (23002-32367)

What is an "emergency renovation" for purposes of the RRP Rule?

Answer

Emergency renovations are those performed in response to situations necessitating immediate action to
address safety or public health hazards or threats of significant damage to equipment and/or property.
The need for immediate action relieves firms from the pre-renovation education requirements. Likewise,
emergency renovations are exempt from the warning sign, containment, waste handling, training, and
certification requirements to the extent necessary to respond to the emergency. The cleaning, cleaning
verification, and recordkeeping requirements still apply.

Once the portion of the repair that addresses the source of the emergency is completed, however, the
justification for the exemption from the rule is no longer operative; therefore, any additional renovation
activity needed to return the renovation work area to its pre-emergency condition would be subject to the
requirements of the rule. Thus, for example, repairing a hole in a wall after a broken water pipe has been

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repaired would be subject to the rule, as would repainting any water-stained walls or ceilings resulting
from the pipe break.

Question (23002-16822)

How do I know if a child has an EBL prior to my work if they haven't had their blood lead tested recently?

Answer

It is never the renovation firm's responsibility to determine whether a child has an elevated blood lead
(EBL) level.

Question (23002-15678)

Does the RRP rule apply to contractors working on homes damaged by a hurricane or other natural
disaster?

Answer

Damage from a major storm or other natural disaster could result in the need for emergency renovations.
Certain requirements of the RRP Rule do not apply to emergency renovations, which are renovation
activities that were not planned but result from a sudden, unexpected event that, if not immediately
attended to, presents a safety or public health hazard, or threatens equipment and/or property with
significant damage. The information distribution requirements do not apply to emergency renovations.
Weather-based emergency renovations are also exempt from the warning sign, containment, waste
handling, training, and certification requirements to the extent necessary to respond to the emergency.
These emergency renovations are not exempt from cleaning requirements, cleaning verification
requirements, or recordkeeping requirements.

Question (23002-19734)

My company only does emergency renovation work. According to your guidelines emergency projects
are exempt from the warning sign, containment, waste handling, training, and certification requirements to
the extent necessary to respond to the emergency. Emergency renovations are NOT exempt from the
cleaning and cleaning verification requirements. Does this mean that my firm does not need to be
certified and my company doesn't need a certified renovator? Does this also mean that my employees
would only have to be trained on cleaning and cleaning verification guidelines?

Answer

No. Emergency renovations (other than interim controls performed in response to a child with an
elevated blood lead level), are exempt from the training, certification, sign posting, waste handling and
containment requirements of the RRP Rule only to the extent necessary to respond to the emergency.
For example, most property management companies that do their own maintenance are likely to have at
least one trained and certified renovator on staff to perform renovations, so these companies should be
able to comply with the training and certification requirements on all renovations. A firm that performs
only emergency renovation work by definition can anticipate the need to perform emergency renovations
and should be able to comply with the training and certification requirements of the RRP Rule.

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Opt-Out Provision

Question (23002-32216)

What was the "opt-out" provision and when was it revoked?

Answer

On April 22, 2010, EPA issued a final rule revoking the opt-out provision of the 2008 RRP Rule. The rule
was published in the Federal Register on May 6, 2010, and took effect on July 6, 2010.

As originally published in 2008, the RRP Rule allowed homeowners to "opt out" of the requirement to hire
a trained renovator who follows the RRP work practices if the homeowner certifies that (1) the renovation
will occur in the owner's residence, (2) no child under age six or pregnant women resides there, (3) the
housing is not a child-occupied facility, and (4) the owner acknowledges that the renovation firm will not
be required to use the work practices contained in the RRP Rule.

Under the 2010 RRP Rule, homeowners are no longer permitted to "opt out" of having a renovation
performed without the RRP work practices.

Pre-Renovation Education
Question (23002-18832)

Is an electronic version of the lead information pamphlet sent to the customer via e-mail an acceptable
means of distributing the information?

Answer

The distribution of the lead information pamphlet (40 CFR § 745.83) via e-mail is an acceptable means of
distributing the pamphlet as long as the requirements of the Electronic Signatures in Global and National
Commerce Act ("Act") (15 U.S.C. § 7001 et seq.) are met. The Act requires that the recipient of the
pamphlet, among other things, consents electronically to email delivery and in a manner that
demonstrates that the recipient can access the information in the form it will be provided. In addition, the
recipient must be allowed to withdraw this consent and be informed of the procedures for withdrawing
consent. Further, the recipient must be provided with a statement of the hardware and software
requirements for accessing and retaining the pamphlet.

Question (23002-21374)

What are the pre-renovation education requirements for a vacant apartment?

Answer

Firms performing renovations must provide pre-renovation education to the owner of the unit and to an
adult occupant. If the unit is not occupied, providing pre-renovation education to the owner of the unit is
sufficient. For additional information on these requirements, visit https://www.epa.gov/lead/small-entitv-
compliance-guide-renovate-right-epas-lead-based-paint-renovation-repair-and.

Question (23002-19756)

My firm performs renovations in large apartment complexes that often consist of several separate
buildings. If a renovation is to be performed in a common area in one building, are we required to provide
pre-renovation education to all tenants in all buildings?

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Answer

When renovations are to be performed in common areas of multi-unit target housing, the RRP Rule
requires that the firm notify in writing both the owner of the building and each "affected unit." See
745.84(b)(1) and (2). Common areas are those portions of a property generally accessible to
residents/users, and can exist on both the interior and exterior of the building.

Generally, the exterior of a building in a multi-building complex is likely to be accessible to all
residents/users in all buildings. Therefore, if a renovation is to be performed on an exterior common area,
all units would probably be "affected units" and require notification. Conversely, the interior of a building
is likely only to be accessible to the residents/users of that particular building. If a renovation is to be
performed in an interior common area of one building in a multi-building complex, then only the units
located in that building would be "affected" and require notification.

Firms may choose to comply with this requirement by mailing or hand delivering the "Renovate Right"
pamphlet and information to each "affected unit," or by posting informational signs while the renovation is
ongoing describing the general nature and location of the renovation and anticipated completion date.
For additional information on these options, visit https://www.epa.gov/lead/small-entitv-compliance-guide-
renovate-right-epas-lead-based-paint-renovation-repair-and. As a practical matter, when "affected units"
are difficult to determine, it may be easier or more efficient for firms to meet the pre-renovation education
requirements by posting informational signs in the appropriate locations.

Question (23002-18349)

When multiple contractors are involved in a single renovation, must every contractor provide pre-
renovation education? Can a certified firm assign its responsibility to a property management company?

Answer

All firms performing, offering or claiming to perform renovations are responsible for ensuring compliance
with the pre-renovation education requirements of the RRP Rule. However, it is unnecessary for the
same notifications and information to be given out repeatedly during a single renovation. Accordingly, a
firm may discharge the task by reaching agreement on who will provide the required pre-renovation
education, including an agreement to assign the task to a property management company. However,
even with such an agreement in place, each firm remains responsible for ensuring that the pre-renovation
education requirements are met.

Note: Firms may reach a similar agreement on who will prepare, retain and make available the necessary
records. See FQ 23002-18287.

Question (23002-23854)

When renovating a common area in an apartment building, must my firm provide pre-renovation
education to all tenants?

Answer

Yes. Firms performing renovations in common areas of multi-unit housing must comply with the
information distribution requirements before beginning renovation activities. The firm must provide the
owner of the common area being renovated (generally the building owner) with the "Renovate Right"
pamphlet and obtain a written acknowledgement of receipt. The firm must also provide the occupant of
each individual unit affected by the renovation with information describing the general nature and
locations of the renovation and the anticipated completion date. The firm may comply with this
requirement either by mailing or hand-delivering the pamphlet and information to each unit, or by posting
informational signs while the renovation is ongoing describing the general nature and locations of the

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renovation and the anticipated completion date. For additional information on these requirements, visit
https://www.epa.gov/lead/small-entitv-compliance-guide-renovate-right-epas-lead-basecl-paint-

renovati o irt - ire pa i r-a irt d.

Question (23002-17773)

How can a firm comply with the pre-renovation education requirements if the owner desires that the
renovation begin immediately?

Answer

If the renovation is taking place in an owner-occupied dwelling unit, a firm must simply provide the owner
with a copy of the pamphlet, and either (1) obtain, from the owner, a written acknowledgement that the
owner has received the pamphlet, or (2) obtain a certificate of mailing at least seven days prior to the
renovation.

If the owner does not occupy the dwelling unit (ex. the unit is leased), the firm must also provide an adult
occupant with a copy of the pamphlet, and either (1) obtain from the adult occupant a written
acknowledgement that the adult occupant has received the pamphlet, or (2) obtain a certificate of mailing
at least seven days prior to the renovation. If an adult occupant is unavailable for signing an
acknowledgment, a firm may employ the self-certification procedures described in 40 CFR 745.84(a)(2)(i),
which require the firm to sign and date a statement attesting to the unavailability of the occupant and to
the delivery of the pamphlet to the dwelling.

As a reminder, if the work to be performed is an "emergency renovation," as defined in 40 CFR 745.82(b),
the firm need not comply with the pre-renovation education requirements.

Question (23002-15799)

EPA's pamphlet titled Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care
Providers and Schools is currently not published in a Braille format. If working in target housing occupied
by persons who are blind, how should a firm comply with the pre-renovation information distribution
requirements?

Answer

In addition to distributing the regular pamphlet, a firm working in such an environment should take extra
precaution to ensure that the owner and occupants are aware of and understand the various dangers
associated with lead. If necessary, a firm should be prepared to verbally convey the information in the
pamphlet. Furthermore, because posted signs are not likely to warn blind occupants, a firm should also
take necessary steps to inform them of the location of the work area and advise them to stay outside of
the work area until the renovation is complete. Finally, a firm must prepare, sign and date a statement
describing the steps performed to notify occupants of the renovation and to provide them with the
pamphlet and information therein.

Question (23002-19753)

My firm is going to perform renovations in a school during the students' summer break. During the
regular school year, the work area would fall under the definition of a child-occupied facility. However, no
children under age six will be present during this multiple month break period. Do we still have to comply
with the pre-renovation education requirements? If so, how should the information be distributed?

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Answer

Yes. Even though the renovations will be taking place during a time when no children will be present, the
building (or portion of the building) will remain a child-occupied facility. Breaks, such as those for summer
or winter, are mere temporary disruptions in regular visits by children.

To provide the required information to the parents and guardian of children using the child-occupied
facility, a firm must either (1) mail or hand deliver the pamphlet and the renovation information to each
parent or guardian of a child using the child-occupied facility or (2) post informational signs describing the
general nature and locations of the renovation and the anticipated completion date. These signs must be
posted in areas where they can be seen by the parents or guardians of the children. The signs must also
be accompanied by a posted copy of the pamphlet or information on how interested parents or guardians
can obtain a free copy from the renovation firm.

Question (23002-18346)

If a project disturbs six square feet or less of interior surface or twenty square feet or less of exterior
surface, is it necessary for a firm to comply with the pre-renovation education requirements, such as
distributing the pamphlet?

Answer

No. A project that disturbs six square feet or less of interior painted surface or twenty square feet or less
of exterior painted surface is not considered a "renovation" under the Rule. It is considered a minor
maintenance and repair activity. As long as this type of disturbance does not involve any prohibited work
practice, window replacement or demolition of painted surfaces, a firm need not comply with the pre-
renovation education requirements.

Question (23002-32354)

I regularly perform renovations and repairs to common areas in a large apartment complex. Must I
provide separate notice to the tenants for each one of these activities or is there any way to avoid such
duplication?

Answer

EPA recognizes that neither residents nor owners/managers/renovators are well-served if duplicative
notifications are frequently issued for similar renovation activities. There are several options
owners/managers/renovators may use to most efficiently provide residents in both single-family and multi-
family housing with the necessary information.

(A) Informational Signs - Owners/managers/renovators may provide notice of renovation
activities in common areas to affected tenants by posting signs. Signs must be posted while the
renovation is ongoing and they must describe the general nature and locations of the renovation
and the anticipated completion date. These signs must be posted in areas where they are likely
to be seen by the occupants of all of the affected units. The signs must be accompanied by a
posted copy of the "Renovate Right" pamphlet or information on how interested occupants can
review a copy of the pamphlet or obtain a copy from the renovation firm at no cost to the
occupants.

(B) Category Notices - When renovation activities fall within distinct categories which are
performed on a cyclical or recurring basis (e.g., hallway painting), they may be grouped into a
single notice which describes the categories and provides a description of the locations affected.
To fulfill the requirement for providing timing information for the renovations,
owners/managers/renovators may either list the expected starting and ending dates, or employ
one of the other methods for meeting the timing requirements described below.

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(C) Bi-monthly Notices - Section 745.84(a) of the RRP Rule requires that notifications be given
no more than 60 days before renovation activities begin. To minimize the number of notices
required, owners/managers/renovators may group all of the renovation activities expected to
occur over a 60-day period into a single notice distributed bi-monthly (every other month).
Renovation activities which were expected to occur within a given 60-day period, but which were
canceled or postponed, would simply be addressed in the subsequent bimonthly notice.

Including renovation notices in, or as an attachment to, a pre-existing newsletter is acceptable
provided that the cover of the newsletter prominently indicates that lead-based paint renovation
notices are contained in or attached to the newsletter.

Descriptions of Renovation Timing — Section 745.84(b)(2) of the RRP Rule requires that notices contain
the "expected starting and ending dates" of the proposed common area renovations. Although providing
specific dates is preferable wherever possible, the Agency is aware that unexpected events or
circumstances often result in delays and/or cancellations of planned renovation activities. To provide
sufficient flexibility without unduly compromising residents' rights to information on the timing of
renovations in common areas, owners/managers/renovators may employ the following terminology to
address the following timing scenarios to avoid the needing to issue supplemental notices:

- "On or about" — acceptable when the expected starting or ending dates occurs one week before
or after the date given.

- "Early [insert month name]" - acceptable when the expected starting or ending dates occurs
during the first half of the specified month.

- "Late [insert month name]" — acceptable when the expected starting or ending dates occurs
during the second half of the specified month.

- "Ongoing for the 12-month period beginning [insert month name]" - acceptable when the
renovation commences within 60 days of the issuance of the notice and continues throughout the
12-month period. If an interruption of more than 60 days occurs anytime after commencement of
such activity, a new notice will be required before the activity may restart.

Descriptions of Renovation Ending Dates - Due to the inherent difficulties in estimating the duration of
many renovation activities, owners/managers/renovators are encouraged to make allowances for
unexpected delays when providing descriptions of ending days under Section 745.84(b)(2) of the RRP
Rule. Any estimated ending date with a rational basis is acceptable.

Question (23002-32355)

Must notifications for common area renovations always be provided to every unit in a multifamily housing
complex?

Answer

Not necessarily. When renovations are to be performed in common areas of multi-family housing (i.e.,
those portions of the property generally accessible to all residents/users), the RRP Rule requires that
each "affected unit" be notified in writing. See 745.84(b)(2). As a general matter, all units in the housing
are "affected unit(s)" and therefore must be provided with notice of a common area renovation.

However, in a minority of cases, certain areas of a property that meet the definition of common area may
in fact be used almost exclusively by an identifiable subset of tenants. For example, a common area
inside one building of a multi-building apartment complex is likely to be used exclusively by tenants of
only that building. See FQ 23002-19756. If a renovation is to be performed on such a common area,
EPA believes it appropriate to provide notice only to the truly affected units: the subset of tenant users.

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Firms may notify residents/users either by distributing written notice to each affected unit or by posting
informational signs. Signs must be posted while the renovation is ongoing and they must describe the
general nature and locations of the renovation and the anticipated completion date. These signs must be
posted in areas where they are likely to be seen by the occupants of all of the affected units. The signs
must be accompanied by a posted copy of the pamphlet or information on how interested occupants can
review a copy of the pamphlet or obtain a copy from the renovation firm at no cost to occupants.

Question (23002-32356)

The RRP Rule requires delivery of the "Renovate Right" pamphlet to the owner and occupants of target
housing. My firm was hired to perform a renovation in a pre-1978 apartment building. Is delivery of the
pamphlet to the property manager sufficient for purposes of delivery to the owner of the building?

Answer

Yes. Property managers are acting in the capacity of agents for the building owners. For this reason, a
property manager may receive, and acknowledge receipt of, the lead hazard pamphlet on behalf of the
owner.

In situations where property managers or their employees are performing the renovations themselves,
they are acting both as a "firm performing the renovation" and as agents for the owner. Documents in the
possession of an agent are also deemed to be in the possession of the person or entity represented by
the agent. Thus, no separate action is required to satisfy the requirement to deliver the "Renovate Right"
pamphlet to the owner.

Question (23002-32357)

May I use the pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home" to meet my obligations for pre-
renovation education under the RRP Rule?

Answer

No. As of December 22, 2008, only the pamphlet "Renovate Right" may be used to comply with the pre-
renovation education requirements of the RRP Rule. "Protect Your Family" is still available for use during
real-estate sales and lease transactions and for general information.

Question (23002-32358)

If a renovation is to be performed on a private balcony of a single unit in a multi-unit target housing
building, does that activity trigger the common area notification requirements?

Answer

A determination of whether the balcony renovation falls within a common area depends upon the scope of
the renovation activity. A common area is a portion of a building that is generally accessible to all
residents/users. Thus, if the work area established to contain dust and debris from the renovation activity
is entirely within the confines of the private balcony, then the renovation is not generally accessible to
residents/users, not within a common area, and therefore not subject to the common area notification
requirements. However, if the work area is not entirely within the confines of the balcony (e.g., the
renovation will result in the release of dust, paint chips, or other construction debris to the ground beneath
the balcony), the firm must comply with the pre-renovation education requirements for common area
renovations.

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Question (23002-32359)

Can notices for multi-family housing common area renovations be delivered to the mailboxes of dwelling
units, or only to the actual units themselves?

Answer

Should a firm decide to comply with the pre-renovation education requirements by hand delivering or
mailing "Renovate Right" pamphlets and notices, they may do so either through delivery of the notices
directly to tenant units or through delivery to tenant mailboxes. If mailbox delivery is used, both hand
delivery and delivery via U.S. mail are acceptable; however, U.S. mail deliveries must be sent seven days
prior to the commencement of renovations and documented with a certificate of mailing.

As a practical matter, it may be easier or more efficient to provide notice of renovations in multi-family
housing common areas by posting signs. Signs must be posted while the renovation is ongoing and
describe the general nature and locations of the renovation and the anticipated completion date. These
signs must be posted in areas where they are likely to be seen by the occupants of all of the affected
units. The signs must be accompanied by a posted copy of the pamphlet or information on how
interested occupants can review a copy of the pamphlet or obtain a copy from the renovation firm at no
cost to occupants.

Question (23002-32360)

If a firm completely blocks access to a common area for the duration of a renovation, does the renovator
still have to provide notifications to all tenants?

Answer

When tenant accessibility to a work site within a common area can be precluded for the duration of a
renovation, EPA considers that work site to be temporarily excluded from the common area of the
building for pre-renovation education purposes because it is not accessible to the residents and users of
the building. To qualify for this exclusion, however, the work site must be in an area which is enclosed by
a wall, fence, or other permanent or temporary physical barrier which truly prevents access by tenants
and other building users. Rope, tape lines, pylons, and similar work area designation devices which can
be easily surmounted or bypassed are not acceptable barriers for this purpose.

Question (23002-32361)

Does a renovator need to attempt personal delivery of the lead information pamphlet to a tenant more
than one time before utilizing the "self-certification of pamphlet delivery" option?

Answer

Personal delivery of the lead information pamphlet is preferable, wherever possible, because EPA
believes that tenants will be more likely to read the information if it is handed directly to them. It also
affords tenants an opportunity to raise concerns and ask questions about the renovation. EPA
recognizes, however, that personal delivery will not always be a viable option, especially when a
renovation needs to be commenced on short notice and an adult occupant of the apartment is not
available. Thus, the RRP Rule permits the person delivering the pamphlet to "self-certify" the delivery (40
C.F.R. 745.84(a)(2)(i)). Although it is recommended that delivery be attempted on more than one
occasion, a single good faith delivery attempt is acceptable for purposes of the RRP Rule.

NOTE: the self certification provisions apply only to pamphlet deliveries to rental units; renovators cannot
self-certify a pamphlet delivery to the owner of the dwelling unit. Pamphlet deliveries to unit owners must
be made directly to the owner, an agent of the owner, or via mailing.

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Question (23002-32362)

In a typical co-operative apartment building, occupants do not own the individual units; rather they "own"
an undifferentiated share in the entire building and then "rent" back a specific unit from the co-operative
corporation. Similarly, in a typical condominium building, owners of individual units jointly own the
common areas of the building. For purposes of the pre-renovation education requirements, who are the
"owners" in such situations?

Answer

EPA recognizes that co-operative apartments ("co-ops") and condominiums ("condos") can be structured
in a variety of ways. For example, in the case of co-ops, a corporation (sometimes referred to as a "co-op
association") is often established and owns all the units and common areas comprising the co-op; in such
circumstances, individual unit "shareholders" own shares in the corporation and also own occupancy
rights or lease a unit from the corporation. In the case of many condos, individuals hold title to their
individual units, and all condo unit owners jointly own the common areas (with a condo association
established to represent the interests of all the unit owners).

For purposes of the pre-renovation education requirements, the following general principles will be
applied:

(a)	If title to a building is held by a corporation which leases back dwelling units to individual corporation
shareholders, as in typical co-op apartment buildings, the corporation/association will generally be
considered to be the "owner" of the entire building, and individual resident shareholders, or persons who
rent from individual shareholders, will generally be considered to be tenants.

(b)	In buildings where individuals hold title to specific dwelling units and jointly hold title to common areas
of the building, as in typical condo buildings, the individual owners each will be considered to be the
owners of his/her individual units, and the association (or its equivalent body composed of, or
representing, the group of owners) will be considered the owner of the common areas of the building.

See the table below for more specific guidance on meeting the pre-renovation education requirements as
they relate to various renovation scenarios in co-ops and condos.

COMPLIANCE WITH RRP PRE-RENOVATION EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
FOR COOPERATIVE APARTMENTS AND CONDOMINIUMS

RENOVATION
LOCATION

RULE REQUIREMENT

COMPLIANCE FOR
CO-OPS

COMPLIANCE FOR
CONDOS

Renovations inside
Individual Unit

1.	Deliver Pamphlet to
Owner

§745.84(a)(1)

2.	Deliver Pamphlet to
Adult Occupant
(Tenant)

§745.84(a)(2)

1.	Deliver Pamphlet to
Co-op Corp./Assoc.
or Property Manager

2.	Deliver Pamphlet to
Resident Co-op Share
holder or Adult
Occupant

1.	Deliver Pamphlet to
Condo Unit Owner
(Or Agent of Owner)

2.	If Condo is Leased,
Deliver Pamphlet to
Adult Occupant

Renovations in a
Common Area

1.	Deliver Pamphlet to
Owner

§745.84(b)(1)

2.	Deliver Notice to
Each Unit

§745.84(b)(2)

1.	Deliver Pamphlet to
Co-op Corp./Assoc.
or Property Manager

2.	Deliver Notice to
Each Unit

1.	Deliver Pamphlet to
Condo Association

or Property Manager

2.	Deliver Notice to
Each Unit

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Notice of renovation activities in common areas can also be provided by posting signs. Signs must be
posted while the renovation is ongoing and they must describe the general nature and locations of the
renovation and the anticipated completion date. These signs must be posted in areas where they are
likely to be seen by the occupants of all of the affected units. The signs must be accompanied by a
posted copy of the pamphlet or information on how interested occupants can review a copy of the
pamphlet or obtain a copy from the renovation firm at no cost to occupants.

Question (23002-32363)

I am planning on sending the pamphlet via the United States Postal Service's certificate of mailing
delivery method to a tenant who occupies a unit scheduled to be renovated. Does the tenant's name
need to be addressed on the mailing, or is it acceptable to address the envelope to Attn:
Tenant/Occupant?

Answer

The tenant's name and address must be indicated on the mailing. The RRP Rule requires a renovator to
provide the "Renovate Right" pamphlet to an adult in each unit. Therefore, the name and address of an
adult occupant in each unit must be indicated on the mailing. The renovator must also retain a receipt of
a certificate of mailing from the Post Office at least seven days before any renovation activities and retain
a record of notification for 3 years. See 40 CFR 745.84(a)(2) and 745.84(a)(2)(ii).

Question (23002-32364)

Under the Pre-Renovation Education Rule, I have the option of using a certificate of mailing to notify the
owner or occupant. What is the difference between a certificate of mailing and certified mail?

Answer

A certificate of mailing is a receipt showing evidence of mailing, while certified mail provides proof of
mailing and delivery of mail. When using the certificate of mailing option, no record is kept at the mailing
office and a receipt is not obtained when mail is delivered to the addressee. In contrast, the certified mail
option provides a receipt to the sender and a record of delivery is maintained by the Postal Service. For
additional information on sending the pamphlet via mail see FQ 23002-32363. If an individual chooses to
mail the pamphlet, a certificate of mailing is the minimum requirement (see 745.84(a)(1)(ii) and
745.84(a)(2)(ii)). An individual utilizing the mailing option also has the option to use the certified mail
process instead of the certificate of mailing.

Question (23002-32365)

If a renovation is to be performed on a common area in a pre-1978 building that contains a mix of studio
apartments (0-bedroom dwellings) and apartments with one or more bedrooms, what pre-renovation
education requirements would apply?

Answer

With respect to apartments with one or more bedrooms, the renovator must provide written notification to
an adult occupant of each dwelling no more than 60 days before any renovation activity commences.
See 40 CFR 745.84(b)(2). As a reminder, notice of renovation activities in common areas may be
provided to affected tenants by posting signs. Signs must be posted while the renovation is ongoing,
describe the general nature and locations of the renovation and the anticipated completion date, and be
posted in areas where they are likely to be seen by the occupants of all of the affected units. The signs

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must be accompanied by a posted copy of the pamphlet or information on how interested occupants can
review a copy of the pamphlet or obtain a copy from the renovation firm at no cost to occupants.

The studio apartments, however, are exempt from the RRP Rule because they fall under the definition of
a 0-bedroom dwelling: a residential dwelling in which the living area is not separated from the sleeping
area. Therefore, the renovator is not required provide the studio apartment occupants with notice of the
common area renovation.

As a practical matter, occupants of 0-bedroom dwelling are likely to receive notice anyways, given the
preference for providing notification for common area renovations by posting signs.

Question (23002-19755)

My firm is replacing windows in a condominium. Is this type of exterior work considered work in a
common area, and if so, must other owners and occupants be informed about the job?

Answer

Exterior renovations of multi-unit target housing are considered renovations of a common area. A
common area is a portion of a building that is generally accessible to all residents or users of the building.
Renovations in common areas of multi-unit target housing, such as condominiums, must be performed in
accordance with the requirements of the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-33372)

When a unit is not occupied by its owner, 40 CFR 745.84(a)(2) states that the "Renovate Right" pamphlet
must be provided to an adult occupant prior to beginning any covered renovation activities. What does
EPA consider an "adult" for these purposes?

Answer

For purposes of receiving the pamphlet pursuant to the pre-renovation education requirements, EPA
believes that "adult" means a person who has reached 18 years of age.

Work Practice Standards
Occupant Protection
Question (23002-23855)

When renovating the exterior of a high-rise building, does the requirement to close and seal doors and
windows within 20 feet of the renovation include closing those openings two-plus floors above the floor
where work is to be performed?

Answer

Not necessarily. When establishing containment for an exterior renovation on a multi-story building, you
must close all doors and windows within 20 feet of the renovation on the same floor as the renovation,
and close all doors and windows on all floors below that are the same horizontal distance from the
renovation. In certain situations, the renovation firm must take extra precautions in containing the work
are to ensure that dust and debris from the renovation does not contaminate other areas of the property.

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The conditions at your renovation site may be such that closing and sealing doors and windows on floors
above the renovation is necessary to prevent these areas from being contaminated by dust and debris.

Containing the Work Area
Question (23002-32337)

What is the "work area?"

Answer

The "work area" is the area established by a certified renovator to contain the dust and debris generated
from a renovation. In other words, the work area is defined by the containment measures established by
the certified renovator. While a renovator has some discretion in setting up a sufficient amount of work
area containment, the RRP Rule sets forth minimum requirements for both interior and exterior
renovations.

For interior renovations, cover the floor surface, including installed carpet, with taped-down plastic
sheeting or other impermeable material in the work area 6 feet beyond the perimeter of surfaces
undergoing renovation or a sufficient distance to contain the dust, whichever is greater. Floor containment
measures may stop at the edge of the vertical barrier when using a vertical containment system
consisting of impermeable barriers that extend from the floor to the ceiling and are tightly sealed at joints
with the floor, ceiling and walls.

For exterior renovations, cover the ground with plastic sheeting or other disposable impermeable material
extending 10 feet beyond the perimeter of surfaces undergoing renovation or a sufficient distance to
collect falling paint debris, whichever is greater, unless the property line prevents 10 feet of such ground
covering. Ground containment measures may stop at the edge of the vertical barrier when using a vertical
containment system. If the renovation will affect surfaces within 10 feet of the property line, the renovation
firm must erect vertical containment or equivalent extra precautions in containing the work area to ensure
that dust and debris from the renovation does not contaminate adjacent buildings or migrate to adjacent
properties. Vertical containment or equivalent extra precautions in containing the work area may also be
necessary in other situations in order to prevent contamination of other buildings, other areas of the
property, or adjacent buildings or properties.

Question (23002-32217)

In exterior containment if a large tree or shrub is within the work area can the plastic be placed around the
base and would the plant, however large, need to be covered also need to be covered?

Answer

The RRP Rule does not specifically address containment of trees or shrubs, but if dust, debris, or residue
remains in the tree or shrub at the conclusion of the job, the site will not pass visual inspection. The work
practices for exterior projects are based on a performance standard — the certified renovator or a worker
under the direction of the certified renovator must contain the work area so that dust or debris does not
leave the work area while the renovation is being performed. In addition, at the end of the job, a certified
renovator must perform a visual inspection to determine whether dust, debris or residue is still present on
surfaces in and below the work area, including windowsills and the ground. If dust, debris or residue is
present, these conditions must be eliminated and another visual inspection must be performed.

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Question (23002-23220)

What is your recommendation if work has started and it begins to rain? What do we do with the water
that is on the plastic in the containment area?

Answer

Before beginning the renovation, the firm must isolate the work area so that no dust or debris (including in
the wastewater) leaves the work area while the renovation is being performed. In addition, the firm must
maintain the integrity of the containment by ensuring that any plastic or other impermeable materials are
not torn or displaced and taking any other steps necessary to ensure that no dust or debris, including
water, leaves the work area while the renovation is being performed.

Some recommended options to prevent contaminated water from leaving the work site include:

Stop work and clean up the work site before rain begins. Proceed with interior work only.

Cover the area with a tarp to deflect the rainwater away from the work site.

Collect the water and dispose of it. Check with your local water treatment authority for local requirements
for handling and disposing of wastewater.

Question (23002-23297)

What mil plastic is considered impermeable?

Answer

The regulation does not specify a particular thickness of plastic sheeting considered to be impermeable,
but rather includes a performance standard. The performance standard requires firms to isolate the work
area, prevent dust and debris from exiting, and ensure plastic sheeting is not torn or displaced. Certain
guidance materials recommend the use of 6 mil plastic sheeting, such as HUD's Guidelines for the
Evaluation and Control of Lead-Based Paint in Hazards in Housing. However, for the purpose of
Renovation, Repair, and Painting regulation, a contractor should choose one or more layers of plastic
sheeting of a sufficient thickness to prevent puncture based on the circumstances of the particular project.

Question (23002-15162)

Do I need to cover a closet door with plastic?

Answer

Yes, if the door is inside the work area. When containing the work area during an interior renovation, the
firm must close windows and doors in the work area. Doors must be covered with plastic sheeting or
other impermeable material.

Question (23002-21413)

What are the requirements for covering doorways used to access the work area?

Answer

Doors used as an entrance to the work area must be covered with plastic sheeting or other impermeable
material in a manner that allows workers to pass through while confining dust and debris to the work area.

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Question (23002-18246)

If a door is outside the work area but used by workers to enter and exit the room, does the door need to
be covered with plastic?

Answer

If the work area is smaller than the entire room, and the door is not within the work area, you do not need
to cover the door with plastic. However, all personnel, tools, and other items, including the exterior of
containers of waste, must be free of dust and debris when leaving the work area.

Question (23002-19009)

Is interior containment required as well as exterior containment for an exterior window removal?

Answer

Yes, if exterior window removal creates dust and debris on the interior of the building. Before beginning
the renovation, the firm must isolate the work area so that no dust or debris leaves the work area while
the renovation is being performed. If removing windows from the exterior creates dust and debris on the
interior as well as the exterior of the building, then the firm must follow the requirements in the RRP Rule
for both interior and exterior containment. Window replacement typically disturbs paint on both the
interior and exterior of a building.

Question (23002-23847)

When must scaffolding and vertical shrouding be used on an exterior renovation when other buildings are
in close proximity to the work area?

Answer

The certified renovator or a worker under the direction of the certified renovator must contain the work
area so that dust or debris does not leave the work area while the renovation is being performed. The
certified renovator must be on site while the containment is established and is responsible for ensuring
that dust or debris does not spread beyond the work area. The extent to which scaffolding and vertical
shrouding are needed to meet this standard will depend on the conditions at the work site.

When performing exterior renovations, you must cover the ground with plastic sheeting or other
disposable impermeable material extending 10 feet beyond the perimeter of surfaces undergoing
renovation or a sufficient distance to collect falling paint debris, whichever is greater, unless the property
line prevents 10 feet of such ground covering. Ground containment measures may stop at the edge of
the vertical barrier when using a vertical containment system. If the renovation will affect surfaces within
10 feet of the property line, the renovation firm must erect vertical containment or equivalent extra
precautions in containing the work area to ensure that dust and debris from the renovation does not
contaminate adjacent buildings or migrate to adjacent properties. Vertical containment or equivalent
extra precautions in containing the work area may also be necessary in other situations in order to
prevent contamination of other buildings, other areas of the property, or adjacent buildings or properties.

Question (23002-18508)

If I paint without disturbing the surface of the existing paint, can I use a tarp instead of six mil plastic?

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Answer

Yes. Projects that do not disturb a painted surface are not subject to the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-19908)

Plastic can be a slip hazard in some jobs, such as handling granite counter tops. This creates a more
immediate safety concern than protecting the floor from dust. Can't I just clean the floor at the end of the
job?

Answer

No. For interior renovations, before beginning the renovation the renovation firm must cover the floor
surface, including installed carpet, with taped-down plastic sheeting or other impermeable material in the
work area six feet beyond the perimeter of surfaces undergoing renovation or a sufficient distance to
contain the dust, whichever is greater.

You must comply with this requirement unless it is impossible to do so, for example, during portions of a
renovation project that involve removing flooring, sanding a hardwood floor, or removing or installing
carpeting. However, the RRP Rule allows you to place another, less slick, disposable surface (such as
paper) on top of the plastic sheeting as long as the plastic sheeting remains intact. Remove and dispose
of both surfaces at the completion of the job.

Even when plastic is used to cover the floor, you must also clean the floor at the end of the job.
Thoroughly vacuum using a HEPA vacuum. The HEPA vacuum must be equipped with a beater bar
when vacuuming carpets and rugs. Mop uncarpeted floors thoroughly, using a mopping method that
keeps the wash water separate from the rinse water, such as the two-bucket mopping method, or using a
wet mopping system.

Question (23002-16472)

How can I use plastic sheeting in exterior renovations without creating a safety hazard? Moisture on the
plastic from precipitation can cause plastic sheeting to become slippery.

Answer

For exterior renovations, cover the ground with plastic sheeting or other disposable impermeable material
extending 10 feet beyond the perimeter of surfaces undergoing renovation or a sufficient distance to
collect falling paint debris, whichever is greater, unless the property line prevents 10 feet of such ground
covering. Ground containment measures may stop at the edge of the vertical barrier when using a vertical
containment system. However, the RRP Rule allows you to place another, less slick, disposable surface
(such as paper) on top of the plastic sheeting as long as the plastic sheeting remains intact. Remove and
dispose of both surfaces at the completion of the job.

Question (23002-15754)

During exterior power washing, instead of plastic, can landscaping fabric or a similar material be used to
capture any paint chips or other debris, but permit the water to seep through?

Answer

No. Landscaping fabric is not an impermeable material.

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Question (23002-18677)

In Chapter Four of the EPA Certified Renovator Initial course, there is a PowerPoint slide showing plastic
sheeting being taped to the floor at several corners, but not around the entire perimeter of the plastic.
Must the plastic be "sealed" to the floor on all four edges by tape or just "secured or held" to the floor by
tape at several locations?

Answer

It depends on the specifics of the renovation job. The RRP Rule requires the renovation firm to cover the
floor surface, including installed carpet, with taped-down plastic sheeting or other impermeable material in
the work area 6 feet beyond the perimeter of surfaces undergoing renovation or a sufficient distance to
contain the dust, whichever is greater Floor containment measures may stop at the edge of the vertical
barrier when using a vertical containment system consisting of impermeable barriers that extend from the
floor to the ceiling and are tightly sealed at joints with the floor, ceiling and walls. It is up to the certified
renovator to determine how to cover the floor in such a way that dust and debris are captured by the
containment and the site can be cleaned at the end of the job.

Question (23002-15698)

Does the RRP rule require people working on a renovation to wear respirators, Tyvek(R) suits or other
personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Answer

EPA would like to clarify the requirements for personal protective equipment. The Occupational Safety
and Health Administration (OSHA) has requirements for personal protective equipment, EPA does not.
For many years, EPA has recommended the use of personal protective equipment as a way to protect
workers and to help ensure that leaded dust and debris does not leave renovation or abatement work
sites. EPA recommends that renovators make use of the minimum respiratory protection recommended
by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for environments where lead is
present, but respiratory protection is not required by the EPA regulations. In addition, disposable
clothing, if removed and disposed of before the workers leave the work site, can provide additional
protection for workers' families by ensuring that no leaded dust or debris is carried home on worker
clothing. However, EPA does not require this and allows renovators to use other methods to ensure that
dust and debris does not leave the work area, including the HEPA vacuuming of clothing, tools, and other
items before they leave the work area.

Question (23002-19757)

My firm is replacing windows on the second floor of a 90-year-old home. The windows are built into a bay
that projects out from a steeply pitched slate roof. When setting up exterior containment for this job, does
the RRP Rule require me to install plastic on the roof under the windows?

Answer

No. The RRP Rule does not require you to install plastic sheeting on the roof. You must cover the ground
with plastic sheeting or other disposable impermeable material in accordance with the containment
requirements at 40 CFR 745.85(a)(2).

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Question (23002-23858)

When replacing an unpainted roof, sometimes sections of paint-covered lumber under the roof need to be
removed as well. If my firm removed damaged lumber from only certain sections of the roof, does only
this area need to be contained while we fix the lumber?

Answer

Yes. The renovation firm is responsible for containing the work area so that no dust or debris resulting
from the disturbance of a painted surface leaves the work area while the renovation is being performed.
Containment is not required for portions of the renovation outside this area that do not disturb painted
components. For exterior renovations, cover the ground with plastic sheeting or other disposable
impermeable material extending 10 feet beyond the perimeter of surfaces undergoing renovation or a
sufficient distance to collect falling paint debris, whichever is greater, unless the property line prevents 10
feet of such ground covering. Ground containment measures may stop at the edge of the vertical barrier
when using a vertical containment system. If the renovation will affect surfaces within 10 feet of the
property line, the renovation firm must erect vertical containment or equivalent extra precautions in
containing the work area to ensure that dust and debris from the renovation does not contaminate
adjacent buildings or migrate to adjacent properties. Vertical containment or equivalent extra precautions
in containing the work area may also be necessary in other situations in order to prevent contamination of
other buildings, other areas of the property, or adjacent buildings or properties.

Question (23002-20687)

To avoid harming the homeowner's grass and landscaping, may my firm fold up the plastic sheeting used
for containment at night and re-use it the next day?

Answer

Yes, as long as your firm does so in a way that contains any dust and debris on the plastic. One way to
accomplish this is to collect and remove the paint chips and debris from the plastic sheeting at the end of
each day, mist the sheeting, and fold it dirty side inward.

Question (23002-23786)

When I replace windows, I set up interior vertical containment barriers that extend from floor to ceiling and
completely enclose the interior area in which I physically work. If these barriers are set up at a distance
less than six feet from the perimeter of the work surface, must I still extend the containment on the floor
beyond the vertical barrier to meet the six-foot requirement?

Answer

No, provided that the vertical containment system consists of impermeable barriers that extend from the
floor to the ceiling and are tightly sealed at joints with the floor, ceiling and walls (40 CFR §
745.85(a)(2)(i)(D)). This type of vertical containment acts as the functional equivalent of a wall for
purposes of defining the work area. If the vertical containment meets these criteria the floor containment
measures may stop at the edge of the vertical barrier.

Unlike permanent walls, however, vertical containment barriers are subject to all containment cleaning
requirements including misting, inward folding, sealing, and proper disposal following the renovation. A
firm must also thoroughly clean an additional two feet beyond the vertically contained work area. Finally,
during ingress or egress from the vertical enclosure, a firm must take precaution to ensure that dust and
debris on personnel, tools, and other items do not escape the work area.

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Question (23002-23675)

What, if any, additional requirements or liabilities exist if a homeowner independently removes the
protective barriers and containment measures implemented by the firm during a renovation?

Answer

Before a firm begins a renovation, they are required to comply with all information distribution
requirements under the Rule and to post signs that clearly define the work area and warn occupants and
other persons not involved in renovation activities to remain outside of the work area. A firm that fails to
comply with these requirements is liable under the Rule.

If, however, a firm does comply with these requirements and a homeowner or other person nevertheless
removes the barriers, a firm must cease renovations until the necessary containment measures are re-
established. A firm should also take additional steps to warn occupants or other persons of the dangers
of entering the work area or removing barriers.

Question (23002-19758)

My firm removes and replaces windows from the exterior of a building or residence. To contain dust in the
work area, we cover the entire interior surface of the window with impermeable plastic sheeting and affix
the sheeting to the surrounding interior wall. This creates a pocket, accessible only from the exterior,
from which the window is removed and replaced. All removal and replacement work is performed from the
exterior, and we still apply the exterior containment measures as provided in the Rule. Does the interior
containment method described meet the requirements under the Rule?

Answer

No. Although EPA encourages your firm to continue to use this method of supplemental containment, the
minimum requirements of the RRP rule must still be met. Specifically, the floor surface must be covered
with taped down plastic sheeting or other impermeable material six feet the perimeter of the work surface,
or a distance sufficient to contain the dust, whichever is greater. Alternatively, your firm can install vertical
containment measures as described more fully in FQ 23002-23786.

Question (23002-18500)

If I mist and HEPA vacuum the plastic sheeting used by my firm for interior containment, can I move and
re-use plastic sheeting on the same day and job?

Answer

No. The Rule does not contemplate a permissible method of moving and re-using plastic sheeting used
for interior containment.

Question (23002-32208)

My firm replaces windows. Various obstacles make it difficult to set up the ten-foot exterior ground
containment in a way that would enable our renovators to perform the work and still effectively contain
dust. In these cases, we lay the ground containment, but also use vertical containment measures to
completely enclose the area in which we work. Is this a permissible method of exterior containment? If
the vertical containment is set up at a distance of less than ten feet from the work surface, must we still
extend the ground containment beyond the vertical barrier to meet the ten-foot requirement?

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Answer:

The work practices for exterior projects are based on a performance standard — the work area must be
contained so that dust or debris does not leave the work area while the renovation is being performed.
EPA recognizes that proper use of exterior vertical containment measures may be a more effective
method for containing the work area than use of the traditional ground containment alone, as outlined in
the regulations.

With proper techniques, a firm may meet the performance standard by using vertical containment in
conjunction with ground containment. Vertical containment means a vertical barrier consisting of plastic
sheeting or other impermeable material over scaffolding or a rigid frame, or an equivalent system of
containing the work area (40 CFR § 745.83). Properly constructed vertical containment, for example, might
consist of a rigid box-like framework wrapped in impermeable plastic sheeting and anchored to the
ground and home. When placed on top of ground containment, such containment should effectively limit
the travel of dust and debris to the interior of the enclosure. Whatever construction techniques are used,
the containment must completely isolate the work area and prevent any dust and debris from leaving the
work area to satisfy the performance standard.

If exterior vertical containment is erected at a distance of less than ten feet from the work surface, the
ground containment need not necessarily extend the full ten feet. Ground containment measures may
stop at the edge of the vertical barrier when using a vertical containment system.

Question (23002-20753)

Under the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule, in exterior containment if a large tree or shrub is
within the work area can the plastic be placed around the base and would the plant, however large, also
need to be covered?

Answer

The RRP Rule does not specifically address containment of trees or shrubs, but if dust, debris, or residue
remains in the tree or shrub at the conclusion of the job, the site will not pass visual inspection. The work
practices for exterior projects are based on a performance standard — the certified renovator or a worker
under the direction of the certified renovator must contain the work area so that dust or debris does not
leave the work area while the renovation is being performed. In addition, at the end of the job, a certified
renovator must perform a visual inspection to determine whether dust, debris or residue is still present on
surfaces in and below the work area, including windowsills and the ground. If dust, debris or residue is
present, these conditions must be eliminated and another visual inspection must be performed.

Question (23002-20640)

The RRP Rule provisions require exterior containment. At what point is the wind too strong to allow work
to continue?

Answer

The work practices for exterior projects are based on a performance standard — the certified renovator or
a worker under the direction of the certified renovator must contain the work area so that dust or debris
does not leave the work area while the renovation is being performed. The certified renovator is
responsible for determining when the wind is so strong that no form of containment is adequate to keep
dust or debris from leaving the work site, and therefore work must stop until conditions improve such that
containment can be maintained.

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Prohibited and Restricted Practices

Question (23002-17026)

How do RRP requirements apply to pressure washing? What containment and other preparation are
required?

Answer

Pressure washing is not a prohibited practice under the RRP Rule. Pressure washing is subject to the
same containment requirements as other permissible work practices. Before beginning the renovation,
the firm must isolate the work area so that no dust or debris (including in the wastewater) leaves the work
area while the renovation is being performed. In addition, the firm must maintain the integrity of the
containment by ensuring that any plastic or other impermeable materials are not torn or displaced and
taking any other steps necessary to ensure that no dust or debris leaves the work area while the
renovation is being performed. The firm must also ensure that containment is installed in such a manner
that it does not interfere with occupant and worker egress in an emergency.

In addition, it is important to properly dispose of wastewater used during pressure washing. Check with
your local water treatment authority for more information.

Question (23002-19748)

My firm drills a series of 1/2-inch diameter holes in sheet rock to dry it out where rooms have been
flooded. Is drilling these holes a prohibited practice?

Answer

No. The requirement for HEPA exhaust control does not apply to the use of all power tools. Specifically,
HEPA exhaust control is not required when using a power drill to drill holes in sheetrock. When using a
power drill with a drill bit to cut through sheetrock, the speed associated with the contact between the bit
and the paint is not of the same magnitude as the contact speed generated by the machines identified in
the regulation. The RRP Rule prohibits the use of machines designed to remove paint or other surface
coatings through high-speed operation such as sanding, grinding, power planing, needle gun, abrasive
blasting, or sandblasting, is prohibited on painted surfaces unless such machines have shrouds or
containment systems and are equipped with a HEPA vacuum attachment to collect dust and debris at the
point of generation. These machines must be operated so that no visible dust or release of air occurs
outside the shroud or containment system.

Waste from Renovations
Question (23002-24833)

Why are gloves, which are exposed to large amounts of lead dust, not required to be disposed of under
the RRP Rule?

Answer

The RRP Rule requires the renovation firm to use precautions to ensure that all personnel, tools, and
other items are free of dust and debris before leaving the work area. Workers with contaminated clothing
can take that contamination home to their own children, and taking contaminated equipment to another
jobsite could potentially create a lead hazard at a new site. There are several ways of ensuring that
gloves and other clothing are free of dust and debris before leaving the work area. For example, tacky
mats may be put down immediately adjacent to the plastic sheeting covering the work area floor to

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remove dust and debris from the bottom of the workers' shoes as they leave the work area. If workers
wear shoe covers, they may remove them as they leave the work area. Clothing and materials may be
wet-wiped and/or HEPA-vacuumed before they are removed from the work area. While the rule does not
specifically address gloves, if they are contaminated with lead dust or debris that cannot be removed,
EPA recommends that they not be removed from the work site during the job and that they be disposed of
as part of final cleanup.

Question (23002-20763)

Under the RRP Rule, what type of container is adequate for on-site storage of debris? Must the container
be covered and locked? Must it be placed behind a locked barrier?

Answer

At the conclusion of each workday and at the conclusion of the renovation, waste that has been collected
from renovation activities must be stored under containment, in an enclosure, or behind a barrier that
prevents release of dust and debris out of the work area and prevents access to dust and debris. Using a
covered container is one way to prevent release of dust and debris. Locking the container and placing it
behind a locked barrier are good examples of ways to prevent access to the dust and debris.

Question (23002-14730)

Can non-certified workers transport debris off site under the RRP Rule if they have had documented on-
the-job training in this activity by the certified renovator?

Answer

Yes. The RRP Rule requires the certified renovator to regularly direct the work being performed by other
individuals to ensure that the work practices are being followed, including ensuring that dust or debris
does not spread beyond the work site. The certified renovator is responsible for providing training to non-
certified workers on the work practices they will be using in performing their assigned tasks, including
transporting waste off site.

Question (23002-33373)

How should lead-containing wastes from RRP renovations be handled and disposed?

Answer

While at the work site, wastes must be collected at the conclusion of each workday and at the conclusion
of the renovation and stored under containment, in an enclosure, or behind a barrier that prevents release
of dust and debris out of the work area and prevents access to dust and debris.

Similarly, while transporting the waste out of the work site for disposal or storage, waste must be
contained to prevent releases of dust and debris.

Finally, contractors may dispose of lead-containing wastes from residential renovations in a municipal
solid waste landfill (MSWLF) or a municipal solid waste combustor. Dumping and open burning of
residential lead-based paint waste is not allowed.

Note: As a general matter, all debris, paint chips, dust, and sludges that exceed the toxicity characteristic
regulatory limit of five mg/L lead in the waste leachate are considered "hazardous" and subject to more
stringent RCRA hazardous waste management and disposal requirements. However, pursuant to 40

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CFR 261.4(b)(1), household wastes (i.e., those derived from households) are excluded from the universe
of RCRA hazardous wastes. In 2000, EPA issued a memorandum clarifying that the household
hazardous waste exclusion applies to waste generated by either contractors or residents performing lead-
based paint activities (abatement) or renovations in residences. Wastes from non-residential renovations
may still be subject to RCRA hazardous waste requirements.

Question (23002-20756)

Under the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule, how should I dispose of contaminated water
used in two-bucket mopping?

Answer

EPA recommends contacting your local water treatment authority and asking about local requirements for
handling and disposing of waste water.

Cleaning the Work Area
Question (23002-20634)

The RRP rule requires HEPA vacuums to be used for cleaning up the dust created by renovations. What
should I look for when purchasing a HEPA vacuum?

Answer

According to the definition in 40 CFR 745.83:

HEPA vacuum means a vacuum cleaner which has been designed with a high-efficiency
particulate air (HEPA) filter as the last filtration stage. A HEPA filter is a filter that is capable of
capturing particulates of 0.3 microns with 99.97% efficiency. The vacuum cleaner must be
designed so that all the air drawn into the machine is expelled through the HEPA filter with none
of the air leaking past it. HEPA vacuums must be operated and maintained in accordance with
the manufacturer's instructions.

Therefore, renovation firms should look for a vacuum cleaner that was designed to be operated with a
HEPA filter, rather than a shop vacuum that can be fitted with a HEPA filter in place of the original basic
filter. A vacuum retrofitted with a HEPA filter is not necessarily properly sealed or designed so that all of
the intake air goes through the HEPA filter. EPA also recommends that renovation firms ask the
manufacturer or retailer whether the machine has been tested to ensure that it achieves the high
efficiency required of a HEPA filter (capturing 99.97% of 0.3 micron particles).

Question (23002-20761)

Under the RRP Rule, do paint chips and debris need to be removed from protective sheeting prior to
misting, removing, folding and sealing the sheeting even if such chips and debris can be effectively
contained by the sheeting or the sealed container the sheeting is contained in for disposal?

Answer

Yes. After the renovation has been completed, the firm must clean the work area until no dust, debris, or
residue remains. The first cleaning step required by the RRP rule is to collect all paint chips and debris
and, without dispersing any of it, seal this material in a heavy-duty bag. The purpose of this step is to

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prevent accidental spreading of lead-contaminated paint chips and dust off of the protective sheeting.
Only when this step is completed may you remove the protective sheeting, following the directions
specified in the rule.

Question (23002-18385)

If a renovator uses the required practices to remove containment and clean a work area, then performs
successful cleaning verification, can the balance of the project then be done using uncertified workers
and without reference to the work practices required by the RRP Rule?

Answer

Yes, as long as the balance of the project can be completed without disturbing a painted surface.

Question (23002-23884)

When waste from renovations has been removed from the work area and placed in on-site storage, may
the waste be stored in a covered waste container or must it all be bagged for disposal?

Answer

Properly implemented, either option can meet the requirements of the RRP Rule. At the conclusion of
each workday and at the conclusion of the renovation, waste that has been collected from renovation
activities must be stored under containment, in an enclosure, or behind a barrier that prevents release of
dust and debris out of the work area and prevents access to dust and debris. Storing the waste in a
covered waste container is one way to meet this requirement if the waste container prevents release of
dust and debris. Containing the waste in closed trash bags can also prevent release of dust and debris.
Locking the dumpster and placing it behind a locked barrier are good examples of ways to prevent access
to the dust and debris.

Question (23002-13864)

Are components removed from the home to be cleaned up and reused subject to the waste handling
requirements in the rule?

Answer

While components to be reused rather that disposed of are not considered waste for the purposes of the
RRP Rule, it is likely that, even if they do not contain lead-based paint, they are contaminated with dust or
debris from the project. The renovation firm must use precautions to ensure that these components are
free from dust and debris before they are removed from the work area. EPA also recommends that these
materials be stored on-site or transported off-site in a way that prevents access to dust and debris or
release of dust and debris.

Question (23002-24718)

Who is responsible for controlling dust and debris from renovation waste once the waste container or
truck used to transport the waste leaves the renovation site?

Answer

When a renovation firm transports waste from renovation activities, the firm must contain the waste to
prevent release of dust and debris. The RRP Rule does not address the responsibilities of other entities.

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EPA recommends consulting with state and local waste disposal authorities to learn about any additional
requirements.

Question (23002-15872)

For purposes of cleaning the work area following a renovation, is the interior floor of a garage considered
interior or exterior space?

Answer

In general, the interior floor of a garage is considered an interior space for purposes of post-renovation
cleanup. EPA recognizes the fact that it may occasionally be impossible for firms to meet all of the
cleaning and verification requirements under the Rule for garage floors such as those that are composed
of dirt or gravel. In such a case, EPA recommends that a firm document and keep records of the specific
circumstances surrounding the impossibility. A firm must also make their best effort to collect and remove
all paint chips, dust, debris and residue. Furthermore, a firm must still comply with all feasible work
practice standards and take precautions to ensure that the work area is properly contained.

Question (23002-31780)

My firm has signed a contract to replace the windows on a pre-1978 home. We have tested for the
presence of lead-based paint and found the results to be positive. However, the homeowner has already
scraped and repainted their house but did not follow lead safe work practices. The result of their activity
is paint chips scattered throughout the landscaping. How best should I proceed?

Answer

A firm working on a property that is already contaminated with paint chips, dust, debris and residue must
proceed by containing the work area for the renovation, and complying with all cleaning requirements
under the Rule for that work area. Paint chips, dust, debris and residue that fall within the work area must
be eliminated. If paint chips, dust and debris exist beyond the work area, but were not a product of the
firm's window replacement activities, EPA recommends that the firm document and keep record of the
conditions.

Cleaning Verification
Question (23002-20755)

Typically, interior clearance is achieved by means of dust wipe sampling by a certified inspector or risk
assessor using single surface dust wipes. This is required on all HUD jobs. EPA rules at 40 CFR
745.227(e)(8)(ii) allow for composite sampling in clearance testing. Under the RRP Rule, is composite
sampling acceptable for clearance in lieu of cleaning verification?

Answer

Yes. Under the RRP Rule, cleaning verification need not be performed if the contract between the
renovation firm and the person contracting for the renovation or another Federal, State, Territorial, Tribal,
or local law or regulation requires:

• The renovation firm to perform dust clearance sampling at the conclusion of a renovation covered
by this subpart.

• The dust clearance samples are required to be collected by a certified inspector, risk assessor, or
dust sampling technician.

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• The renovation firm is required to re-clean the work area until the dust clearance sample results
are below the clearance standards in 40 CFR 745.227(e)(8) or any applicable State, Territorial,
Tribal, or local standard.

Clearance must be performed following the procedures in 40 CFR 745.227(e)(8), which allow the use of
composite sampling. Not all laboratories will analyze composite samples, so check with your laboratory
before collecting them.

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Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements

Question (23002-18219)

If a certified renovator is an employee of the certified firm, can the firm maintain all required records
(those required of the firm and of the certified renovator); understanding that the certified renovator must
also keep a copy of his certification as well as employee training records/documentation on the jobsite?

Answer

The renovation firm is the entity responsible for retaining and making available to EPA all records
necessary to demonstrate compliance with the RRP Rule for a period of three years following completion
of the renovation. The certified renovator is responsible for preparing the records demonstrating that the
renovation was conducted in compliance with the work practice standards.

Certified renovators must have with them at the work site copies of their initial course completion
certificate and their most recent refresher course completion certificate. Certified renovators are also
responsible for providing training to non-certified workers on the work practices they will be using in
performing their assigned tasks. The renovation firm must keep records showing what training was
provided to workers, but these records need not be available at the work site.

Question (23002-32219)

What records must a subcontractor keep?

Answer

If the certified renovator assigned to the project is assigned by the subcontractor, the certified renovator is
responsible for preparing the records demonstrating that the renovation was conducted in compliance
with the work practice standards, including training provided to non-certified workers. All renovation firms
involved in a project share the responsibility for retaining and making available to EPA all records
necessary to demonstrate compliance with the RRP Rule for a period of three years following completion
of the renovation. That does not mean that all of the firms involved in a project must retain a copy of the
records. The records may be held by only one of the firms. However, firms that choose not to hold
copies of the records, but rather to rely on other contractors involved in the renovation (e.g.,
subcontractors) to do that, must be able to access the records and make them available in a timely
manner when requested by the EPA.

Question (23002-18103)

I hear new recordkeeping requirements will take effect soon. What are they and when must my firm
begin to comply with them?

Answer

Beginning July 6, 2010, when the final invoice for the renovation is delivered, or within 30 days of the
completion of the renovation, whichever is earlier, the renovation firm must provide information
demonstrating compliance with the training and work practice requirements of the RRP Rule to the owner
of the building being renovated and, if different, to the occupants of the renovated housing or the operator
of the child-occupied facility. For renovations in common areas of target housing, the renovation firm
must provide the occupants of the affected housing units with instructions on how to review or obtain this
information from the renovation firm at no charge to the occupant. These instructions must be included in
the pre-renovation education notice provided to each affected unit or on the signs posted in the common

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areas. Similar requirements apply for renovations in child-occupied facilities. The renovation firm is
required to provide interested parents or guardians of children using the child-occupied facility instructions
on how to review or obtain a copy of these records at no cost to the parents or guardians. This could be
accomplished by mailing or hand delivering these instructions, or by including them on the signs posted
as part of pre-renovation education.

Question (23002-18287)

If a general contractor and one or more subcontractors are involved in a single renovation project, which
persons or entities are responsible for preparing, retaining and making available the necessary records?

Answer

The certified renovator, whether assigned by a general contractor or subcontractor, is responsible for
preparing the records demonstrating that the renovation was conducted in compliance with the work
practice standards, including training provided to non-certified workers.

All renovation firms involved in a project share the responsibility for retaining and making available to EPA
all records necessary to demonstrate compliance with the RRP Rule for a period of three years following
completion of the renovation. That does not mean that all of the firms involved in a project must retain a
copy of the records. The records may be held by only one of the firms. However, firms that choose not to
hold copies of the records, but rather to rely on other contractors involved in the renovation (e.g.,
subcontractors) to do that, must be able to access the records and make them available in a timely
manner when requested by the EPA.

Question (23002-20760)

Under the RRP Rule, can the required records and documentation be stored electronically rather than as
paper copies?

Answer

Yes. The renovation firm is responsible for retaining and making available to EPA all records necessary
to demonstrate compliance with the RRP Rule for a period of three years following completion of the
renovation. The RRP Rule does not specify the format in which records must be kept.

Question (23002-20759)

Under the RRP Rule, can the certified renovator comply with the rules by keeping records regarding his
certification and employee training electronically, provided he can display them on a hand held device or
laptop on the job site?

Answer

Yes. The RRP Rule does not specify the format in which these documents must be kept, but they must
be available at the work site. Documents are not available if they cannot be viewed. Certified renovators
must have with them at the work site copies of their initial course completion certificate and their most
recent refresher course completion certificate.

Certified renovators are also responsible for providing training to non-certified workers on the work
practices they will be using in performing their assigned tasks. The renovation firm must keep records
showing what training was provided to workers, but these records need not be available at the work site.

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Firm Certification

Question (23002-19747)

My firm acts as a general contractor - we subcontract the entire renovation job to other companies rather
than using our own employees. Does my firm need to be a certified firm under the RRP Rule?

Answer

Yes. Beginning April 22, 2010, no firm may perform, offer, or claim to perform renovations covered by the
RRP Rule without certification from EPA. A general contractor that subcontracts the entire renovation job
to other firms must be certified as a firm for two reasons. First, the contractual agreement between the
general contractor and the subcontractor is based on the general contractor's offer to renovate the
property of a third party for compensation. The RRP Rule requires a contractor that makes such an offer
to be certified as a firm. Second, once the offer is accepted, the general contractor is obligated to
perform a renovation in accordance with the terms of the contract, whether written or oral. Even if the
general contractor chooses to fulfill its obligation to perform the renovation by hiring subcontractors, the
general contractor is performing a renovation for purposes of the RRP rule and must comply with all the
requirements of the rule that apply to firms performing renovations.

Question (23002-14295)

My firm acts as a general contractor - we subcontract the entire renovation job to other companies rather
than using our own employees. Does my firm need to have a certified renovator at the job site?

Answer

Not necessarily. All firms performing renovations, including general contractors, must ensure that all
individuals performing renovation activities on behalf of the firm are either certified renovators or have
been trained by a certified renovator.

A firm acting as a general contractor may satisfy this requirement by hiring another certified firm that also
takes responsibility for ensuring that all individuals performing the renovation activities are either certified
renovators or have been trained by a certified renovator.

With respect to assigning a certified renovator who is responsible for any OJT and regularly directing
other workers, a firm acting as a general contractor may satisfy this requirement by hiring another certified
firm that in turn assigns a certified renovator to the job. However, this does not discharge the general
contractor's liability to ensure compliance with the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-18512)

If I rent out apartments built before 1978, do I need to get firm and renovator certification if I do my own
work on it? What if I hire a renovation firm to do the work?

Answer

With respect to landlords, EPA believes that there are two circumstances where work being done in pre-
1978 apartment is for compensation such that the landlord must be a certified firm and use (or be) a
certified renovator. First, if the landlord does the renovation him or herself, then the landlord must have
firm and renovator certification. Second if an employee of the landlord does the renovation work, then the
landlord must have firm certification and the employee must be a certified renovator. However, if the
landlord hires a renovation firm to perform the renovation, the landlord does not need firm or renovator
certification, but the firm hired by the landlord must be certified and must perform the renovation using a

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certified renovator that directs and provides on-the-job training to any workers that are not certified
renovators.

Question (23002-15340)

DOE provides weatherization grants to states, which in turn provide grants to non-profit sub-grantees.
These sub-grantees fall into one of three categories:

1. The sub-grantee uses its own employees to perform all the weatherization services in the home,

2. The sub-grantee uses a combination of its own employees and contractors to perform
weatherization services, or

3. The sub-grantee has no employees that perform weatherization services; instead, every service
is performed by a hired contractor.

Must these sub-grantees be RRP-certified firms?

Answer

Beginning April 22, 2010, no firm may perform, offer, or claim to perform renovations covered by the RRP
Rule without certification from EPA. Sub-grantees that use their own employees to perform any or all of
the weatherization services in the home, such as the sub-grantees in the first two categories, must be
RRP certified firms.

As to the sub-grantee in the third category, the need for certification depends on whether the sub-grantee
offers, through the grant proposal, to renovate the property of a specific homeowner or other third-party.
In this case, the sub-grantee is an offeror and grant money is "compensation" for RRP purposes. Once
the offer is accepted (i.e., the grant is issued) a contract is formed under which the sub-grantee is
obligated to perform the renovation. Even if the sub-grantee chooses to fulfill its obligation to perform the
renovation by contracting out the work, the sub-grantee is "offering to perform a renovation" for purposes
of the RRP rule. Accordingly, the sub-grantee must be a certified firm and comply with all other
applicable RRP requirements.

Conversely, if the sub-grantee does not "perform, offer, or claim to perform" a renovation - through a grant
proposal or otherwise - the sub-grantee need not be certified. For example, a grant proposal would not
constitute an "offer" if the issuance of the grant would not obligate the sub-grantee to renovate the
property of a specific third-party. If the grant proposal is not a legally binding offer, the sub-grantee
becomes a mere purchaser of renovation services when it uses the grant money to hire a renovation firm.
In such a case, only the renovation firm - the offeror - must be certified

Question (23002-21691)

What do you need to do to become a certified firm?

Answer

Firm certification is easy and straightforward - you need only submit a short application and fee to EPA.
The form, and associated material, is available on EPA's website at https://www.epa.gov/lead/getceirtiified.
Certified firms will be able to advertise that they are certified by EPA under the RRP program, and will
also be given rights to use EPA's new "Lead-Safe Certified Firm" logo.

Remember, to fully comply with this regulation, some of your key employees may need to obtain
individual certification (by taking a one-day certification course) in addition to your firm certification. Visit
https://www.epa.gov/lead/getcertified to learn how to become a certified renovator.

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Question (23002-18528)

If my firm already has abatement certification, is separate RRP certification necessary?

Answer

RRP firm certification is not required to perform lead abatements. However, if your firm performs, offers,
or claims to perform renovations as well as abatements, after April 22, 2010 it must be a certified
renovation firm.

Question (23002-18123)

I own a sole proprietorship, and I plan to get trained and certified as a certified renovator. Will that be
sufficient since I have no employees?

Answer

No. Beginning April 22, 2010, all firms performing renovations covered by the RRP rule must be certified.
"Firm" means a company, partnership, corporation, sole proprietorship or individual doing business,
association, or other business entity; a Federal, State, Tribal or local government agency; or a nonprofit
organization.

Question (23002-20758)

Can a certified renovator supervise workers of a different company, or must each firm involved in a
project furnish a certified renovator?

Answer

All firms performing renovations must ensure that all individuals performing renovation activities on behalf
of the firm are either certified renovators or have been trained by a certified renovator. The RRP Rule
does not prohibit firms from reaching agreement on which will supply the certified renovator who is
responsible for ensuring compliance with the RRP Rule and who directs and trains non-certified workers.
All firms remain liable for ensuring compliance with the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-14050)

Are state and local government employees who often do renovation work required to be certified?

Answer

If the state or local government uses its own employees to do the work, the state or local government
must be a certified firm and at least one of the employees assigned to each job must be a certified
renovator. If the state or local government hires a renovation firm to perform the renovation, the state or
local government does not need firm or renovator certification, but the firm the state or local government
hires must be certified and must perform the renovation using a certified renovator that directs and
provides on-the-job training to any workers that are not certified renovators.

Question (23002-18288)

If a general contractor hires a subcontractor to work at a renovation site, does the subcontractor need to
be a certified firm if the subcontractor does not disturb any paint?

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Answer

Firms performing tasks that disturb no painted surfaces whatsoever do not need to be certified. However,
since conditions at the job site may be difficult to predict, EPA strongly recommends that all firms involved
in the renovation be certified and use properly trained and certified personnel. For example, a firm hired
to install an HVAC system after demolition of painted surfaces has taken place may find that to complete
the job painted surfaces need to be disturbed. The HVAC firm may not engage in activities that disturb
painted surfaces if it is not certified.

As every renovation job is different, it is up to the firm acting as the general contractor to determine what
activities are within the scope of the renovation and to ensure that other firms are properly trained and
certified for the tasks they will be performing. All firms, including the firm acting as the general contractor,
are responsible for making sure the renovation is performed in accordance with the work practice
standards, including keeping containment intact and making sure lead dust and debris do not leave the
worksite. General contractors should keep in mind that if a firm hires a subcontractor that fails to follow
the work practice standards or otherwise violates the RRP rule, the firm that hired the subcontractor is
also responsible for the violation.

Question (23002-21581)

What changes in a renovation firm's status require an amendment of certification and how much will it
cost?

Answer

In accordance with § 745.89(c), any change to the information reported to EPA in a firm's most recent
certification application must be reported in an amended certification application. There is no fee
associated with the submission of an amended certification.

Question (23002-18350)

If a property owner and a property management company have entered into a consent agreement related
to Section 1018 (lead hazard disclosure) that does not admit an actual violation, is the property
management company required to acknowledge a lead-based paint violation when completing the
application for firm certification?

Answer

No.

Question (23002-18573)

If the demolition, cleanup, and cleaning verification portion of a renovation project is performed under the
direction of a certified renovator using trained workers, can uncertified workers complete the job if further
disturbances of painted surfaces will not occur? For example, a certified firm establishes containment
and removes wall and ceiling board to the rough framing members. Cleaning and verification take place
and containment is removed and properly disposed of. At that point, can non-certified firms perform
electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or drywall work?

Answer

Yes. Activities that do not disturb paint, such as applying paint to walls that have already been prepared,
are not regulated by the RRP Rule if they are conducted after post-renovation cleaning verification has
been performed.

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Question (23002-15697)

Does the RRP Rule require a certified state lead inspector or risk assessor, who does not do renovation
work, to become a certified renovation firm in order to take dust wipe samples?

Answer

No. A certified inspector or risk assessor may make determinations regarding the presence of lead-
based paint at a renovation site without becoming certified as a renovation firm.

Question (23002-19197)

Is the fee for firm certification waived for self- employed individuals or landlords?

Answer

No. Congress requires EPA to impose a fee on certified contractors that is sufficient to recover the costs
of administering and enforcing the RRP Rule. All applicants for firm certification must submit the required
fee as part of their application. A firm's certification is effective for five years.

Question (23002-14558)

Can contractors submit their application to EPA before they complete the required training, or must the
application be submitted after the training is complete? Is there a proof of training required by the EPA in
order for the contractor's application to be approved?

Answer

The firm certification process does not include the submission of renovator training credentials, so a firm
can apply for certification before completing required training. As part of the application, the firm is
required to certify it will comply with the requirements of the RRP Rule, including ensuring that all
individuals performing renovations activities on behalf of the firm are either certified renovators or have
been trained by a certified renovator.

Question (23002-19659)

Must maintenance workers at kindergartens and elementary schools become certified renovators if they
perform renovations covered by the RRP Rule in the portions of the school that are child-occupied
facilities? Are the schools or school systems then required to become certified renovation firms?

Answer

On or after April 22, 2010, all renovations covered by the RRP Rule must be directed by certified
renovators and must be performed by certified renovators or individuals trained by a certified renovator.
The RRP rule requires any firm, including a local government agency that performs, offers, or claims to
perform renovations to be certified by EPA.

Question (23002-18285)

If a firm does business in several states, must they become certified in all states in which they manage a
target property or is this requirement satisfied by certifying the firm in the state in which they are
headquartered?

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Answer

The RRP Rule applies in states and tribal areas that are not operating EPA-authorized programs. A firm
with Federal certification under the RRP Rule may perform, offer, or claim to perform renovations in any
of these states. In states and tribal areas with EPA-authorized programs, check with the state or tribal
agency administering the program to learn about the certification requirements in that state or tribal area.
EPA encourages authorized state and tribal programs to accept certifications issued under the Federal
program and under other state and tribal programs, but this is not required.

Question (23002-19776)

My non-profit organization receives grants to arrange for renovations in older housing, such as
weatherization projects or general modernization. Typically, these grants come with eligibility conditions
for properties and/or property owners and tenants, but specific properties or projects are not identified.
My organization is responsible for locating eligible properties and recipients and hiring firms to perform
the eligible renovations. Must my non-profit organization become an RRP-certified firm?

Answer

No, as long as your organization does not perform covered renovations using its own employees or offers
to renovate the properties of specifically identified third parties in exchange for a grant, your organization
does not need to become an RRP-certified firm. You should make sure that any firms you hire are
certified renovation firms.

Question (23002-19775)

My non-profit organization applies for and receives grants to renovate older homes. We do not perform
the renovations ourselves, we hire renovation contractors to perform them on our behalf. We identify the
properties to be renovated and the specific projects in the grant application. If we are successful in
obtaining the grant, the funding would obligate us to arrange for the renovation of the specific properties
named in the grant application. Must my non-profit organization become an RRP-certified firm?

Answer

Yes, even though your organization's employees do not actually perform the renovation activities, your
organization must be an RRP-certified renovation firm because your organization, through the grant
process, is offering to perform renovations for compensation, i.e., the grant.

Question (23002-17979)

I am a facilities manager for a church with daycare and preschool programs. I recently became a certified
renovator. If my staff and I do our own painting and remodeling work, do we need to be a certified firm?

Answer

Yes, if you perform, offer, or claim to perform renovations in a portion of the building that is a child-
occupied facility. The RRP Rule defines a child-occupied facility as a building, or portion of a building,
constructed prior to 1978, visited regularly by the same child, under 6 years of age, on at least two
different days within any week (Sunday through Saturday period), provided that each day's visit lasts at
least three hours and the combined weekly visits last at least six hours, and the combined annual visits
last at least 60 hours.

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or commercial buildings that contain child-occupied facilities, the child-occupied facility encompasses only
the exterior sides of the building that are immediately adjacent to the child-occupied facility or the
common areas routinely used by children under age six.

Areas of a building that fall outside this definition are not "child-occupied facilities" for purposes of the
RRP rule.

Question (23002-18225)

If a company has several legal entities, does each entity have to become a certified firm?

Answer

Yes, if the corporate structure is such that the parent company is not liable for actions of the separate
legal entities.

Question (23002-19722)

My company has two stores in different states. Must each store be a separate certified firm?

Answer

It depends on the company's structure. If each store is a separate legal entity, then each store must be a
certified firm. If the parent company retains liability for the actions of each store, the parent company's
firm certification covers both stores.

Question (23002-18047)

I am the owner of my renovation firm, but I am not a certified renovator. May I be the "attesting individual"
named on the RRP firm certification application?

Answer

Yes. The attesting individual need not be a certified renovator.

Question (23002-31784)

My firm performs renovations covered by the RRP rule, but solely in the capacity of a subcontractor. If
the general contractor is a certified firm, does my firm also have to be certified, or can we just provide the
certified renovator?

Answer

All firms performing, offering, or claiming to perform renovations covered by the RRP rule must be
certified. In this case, both the general contractor and subcontractor must become certified firms.

Question (23002-33318)

What is the difference between Abatement Certification and Renovation (RRP) Certification?

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Answer

Renovation (RRP) certification is appropriate for firms who disturb paint in pre-1978 residences and child-
occupied facilities simply as a consequence of doing other work. It covers a broad range of firms
including renovators, carpenters, painters, electricians, plumbers, handymen, and more. These firms do
NOT need abatement certification.

Lead-Safe Certified Firm Logo
Question (23002-16813)

How do I get my Lead-Safe Certified Firm Logo?

Answer

Your customized firm logo will be emailed to you in your certification approval package. Approval
packages are emailed from lead.paint@epa.gov. To help ensure receipt of email correspondence, we
recommend you add the lead.paint@epa.gov email address to your contacts to ensure it arrives in your
inbox rather than a SPAM folder.

After your application is approved, you can also access EPA's E-Enterprise portal and download a copy
of your logo. Just go to erprise portal and login with your CDX username and password, then

go to the "progress tracker" section. There you will be able to download your customized program logo.

Question (23002-16027)

How and where can I use the Lead-Safe Certified Firm Logo?

Answer

The Lead-Safe Certified Firm Logo must be reproduced so that all of its components are legible, including

your firm's certification number. The Logo must not be altered or distorted in any way.

You MAY -

• Use the Logo to identify your firm as an RRP-certified firm. Firms that are not RRP-certified may
not use the Logo.

• Use the Logo in brochures, advertisements, Web sites, proposals, bills, signs, uniforms, vehicles
and other materials promoting or identifying your firm.

• Use the Logo on documents or other materials in black and white or color (two-color or four-color
versions are available).

You MAY NOT -

• Use the Logo in any manner that would imply EPA endorsement of a company, its products or
services.

• Reduce the Logo to a size smaller than one-inch-wide by 0.687 inches in height.

• Allow a firm that is not RRP-certified (including your subcontractors) to use the Logo.

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EPA will monitor the use of all Logos. If necessary, EPA will address failure to comply with these Logo
Guidelines. To report a non-compliant use of the Logo, please contact EPA at 1-800-424-LEAD.

Question (23002-14639)

Can I get the Lead-Safe Certified Firm Logo file in different resolution or in black and white?

Answer

Yes, please submit your request using our Contact Us page at https://www.epa.gov/lead/foirinis/cointact-
us-about-lead.

Question (23002-18056)

I can't open the Lead-Safe Certified Firm Logo file I have been sent. What format is it in?

Answer

The Logo is in a standard .jpg file. It is approximately 900KB to ensure clarity. If this size is too large, or
a different format is needed, please submit your request using our Contact Us page at

https://www.epa.gov/llead/foirinis/contact-us-albout-llead.

Question (23002-14652)

Can I receive an .eps, .ai, .ait or modifiable format of the Lead-Safe Certified Firm Logo?

Answer

No, EPA will only send formats that cannot be manipulated (i.e., .bmp, .pdf, .tif etc.)

Question (23002-14618)

Can I change the colors of the Lead-Safe Certified Firm Logo to match my company's current materials?

Answer

No, the Lead-Safe Certified Firm Logo may only be presented in Pantone 362C (green) and Pantone
660C (blue), or in black and white.

Question (23002-33374)

Are trainers authorized to use the EPA Lead-Safe Certified Logo?

Answer

Accredited training providers may use the logo on their site and marketing materials as long as it is used
as a tool to guide renovators through the firm certification process (i.e., explain the difference between
firm certification and individual training). Training providers may inform students that only certified firms
will be provided a customized logo exclusively for their use to advertise their businesses once their firm
has been certified. Training providers may distribute the logo only to principal instructors affiliated with the
accredited provider, and only for the purpose of training as described above. Training providers may

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NOT distribute the logo to unaffiliated entities. Upon request, EPA will provide to the accredited training
provider the logo for their use. Requests can be made to the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-
424-LEAD.

Question (23002-33375)

May principal instructors, working under the umbrella of an accredited training provider, independently
advertise, provide training, or use the EPA Lead-Safe Certified logo?

Answer

No. Principal instructors that advertise, provide training, and use the logo must do so under the name of
the accredited training provider for whom they work. They may also state that the organization which
employs them is assisting with the training.

Renovator Certification and Training
Question (23002-23546)

What training requirements apply to non-certified workers who have previous EPA/HUD lead-safe work
practices training or accredited abatement supervisor or worker training?

Answer

The RRP Rule requires certified renovators to provide on-the-job training (OJT) to non-certified workers
on the work practices they will be using in performing their assigned tasks. The amount of OJT needed
and the topics that need to be covered depend on the knowledge and experience of each worker. OJT
for a worker who has successfully completed prior EPA/HUD lead-safe work practices training, accredited
abatement supervisor or worker training, or HUD's Lead Maintenance course training, might not have to
cover basic lead-safe work practices information. It likely would need to address project-specific
information (such as the worker's tasks on the job, the operation of new equipment the worker is to use,
work area exit locations, and waste disposal locations), as well as any new lead-safe work practices
information that was not covered in the worker's course training and that is pertinent to the worker's tasks.

The certified renovator is responsible for ensuring compliance with the work practice standards at all
renovations to which he or she is assigned. The certified renovator is also responsible for preparing the
records demonstrating that the renovation was conducted in compliance with the work practice standards,
including the requirement to provide OJT to non-certified workers. The renovation firm must keep records
showing what training was provided to workers. It would be advisable for the records to reflect any prior
training non-certified workers had taken.

Question (23002-19615)

Must a certified lead abatement professional also become trained and certified to do renovation or repair
work?

Answer

Yes. Because some skills are different (such as cleaning verification), RRP training and certification is
required even if someone already has abatement certification.

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Question (23002-16220)

How can I find an accredited renovation trainer?

Answer

The list of accredited training providers is available on EPA's RRP Web site at
http://cfpub.epa.gov/flpp/searchrrp traininq.htm, or from the National Lead Information Center, 1-800-
424-LEAD.

Question (23002-20530)

The certified renovator is required to have proof of their certification at the worksite. If the certified
renovator provides on-the-job training to workers, does there need to be documentation of that training at
the work site too?

Answer

No. Certified renovators must have with them at the work site copies of their initial course completion
certificate and their most recent refresher course completion certificate. Certified renovators are also
responsible for providing training to non-certified workers on the work practices they will be using in
performing their assigned tasks. The renovation firm must keep records showing what training was
provided to workers, but these records need not be available at the work site.

Question (23002-19182)

Is the certified renovator assigned to a specific project responsible for the work practices of other
contractors on the project if the certified renovator is an employee of the general contractor of the project?

Answer

All firms performing renovations must ensure that all individuals performing renovation activities on behalf
of the firm are either certified renovators or have been trained by a certified renovator. A firm acting as a
general contractor may satisfy this requirement by hiring another certified firm that takes responsibility for
ensuring that all individuals performing the renovation activities are either certified renovators or have
been trained by a certified renovator. With respect to assigning a certified renovator who is responsible
for any OJT and regularly directing workers who are not certified renovators, a firm acting as a general
contractor may satisfy this requirement by hiring another certified firm that in turn assigns a certified
renovator to the job. However, this does not discharge the general contractor's liability to ensure
compliance with the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-20939)

What about a situation where the homeowner is acting as their own general contractor and hires multiple
companies to do different portions of the work? In this situation, would each business participating be
required to follow the rules and assign a separate certified renovator to supervise their portion of the work
including separate containment?

Answer

While the homeowner may be performing the role of general contractor by hiring firms and organizing
their work, the homeowner is not performing, offering, or claiming to perform a renovation and therefore
does not need to be a certified firm. The firms hired by the homeowner to perform renovation tasks are
responsible for complying with all aspects of the RRP Rule that are applicable to their work, including firm
certification. The RRP Rule does not prohibit firms from reaching agreement on which will supply the

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certified renovator who is responsible for ensuring compliance with the RRP Rule and who directs and
trains non-certified workers. However, all firms share liability for ensuring compliance with the RRP Rule.

Question (23002-14757)

Can renovator training courses, both initial and refresher courses, be taught online or via distance
learning?

Answer

The final Renovation, Repair and Painting regulation, like the abatement program, permits the use of
alternative training techniques (e.g., video training, computer-based training) as a supplement to the
hands-on skills assessment, or as a substitute for the lecture portion of the training course requirements
outlined in § 745.225.

In addition, § 745.225 of the final rule requires all training programs, including those using alternative
training methods, to meet the minimum hourly requirements for hands-on activities in their training
courses. Under § 745.225, all training programs are also required to administer a course test and conduct
a hands-on skills assessment.

To ensure the quality of such alternative programs, the final rule requires training providers who opt to
use alternative techniques to submit all materials as specified in § 745.225 as a part of their application
for accreditation. These materials include copies of the course agenda, and student and instructor
manuals.

The accreditation of alternative training programs will be based on EPA's review of the training materials
submitted under § 745.225, including the course agenda and manuals. In its review, the Agency will
consider on a case-by-case basis the provisions made by a training program to ensure the quality of its
course materials. Based on that review, the Agency may accredit programs offering alternative training
and instructional methods.

Question (23002-18377)

If a remodeling company that is a certified firm uses all contractual workers rather than employees, must
each contractual worker be a certified renovator, or can the workers be trained on the job by a certified
renovator employed by the firm?

Answer

Firms hiring contractual workers may provide the certified renovator that oversees the renovation project
and provides on-the-job training to contractual workers and other non-certified workers.

Question (23002-18001)

I am a renovator and I want to comply with EPA's Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule. What do I
need to do?

Answer

EPA's RRP rule sets up requirements for firms and individuals performing renovations in pre-1978
housing and child-occupied facilities, such as schools and daycares.

• Firms must be EPA certified. To become EPA certified, renovation contractors must submit an
application and fee payment to EPA (https://www.epa.gov/lead/epa-lead-safe-certification-

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program'). Once certified, the firm will be able to advertise that they are certified by EPA under the
RRP program, and will also be given rights to use EPA's "Lead-Safe Certified Firm" logo.

• Renovations covered by the rule must be performed or directed by a Certified Renovator.
Individuals can become a lead-safe certified renovator by successfully completing a one-day
training course in lead-safe work practices. The training courses are offered by EPA-approved
private training providers; there is no additional fee to EPA. You can find a training provider in
your area by using EPA's search tool at h tt p:: // cfp u lbe p a.. g o v/f I p p/s e a ire h ir ir p training.htm.

Training providers must be accredited to provide the specialized, one-day lead-safe work practices
training. Classes teach the specific work practices that contractors need to protect themselves and their
clients from lead contamination, and to allow them and their firm to work legally. Certification is
immediate upon successful completion of the training class.

Question (23002-17981)

I am a firm and there are no training providers offering classes near me. What do I do?

Answer

More than 340 EPA-accredited training providers have indicated to EPA that they are willing to travel to
offer training classes. You can find a list of training providers, including those who are willing to travel, by
using EPA's search tool at http://cfpub.epa.gov/flpp/searchrrp training.htm.

Question (23002-32128)

May I as a training provider issue a certificate without a picture to a trainee who has successfully
completed the course but objects to having his or her picture taken (or objects to possessing a
photograph of him/herself) on religious grounds?

Answer

Yes. Training providers may provide a person who objects to having his or her picture taken because of
sincerely held religious beliefs with the equivalent of a certificate without a picture. Specifically, the
training provider may provide an "Acknowledgement of Completion" that the person has successfully
completed the training (containing all the information that a certificate would except for a picture). EPA
recommends that training providers include the phrase "photo exception" in the normal place for a picture.
Further, training providers should use special coding when assigning Part 5 of the unique certificate
number. See for example, R-I-56789-10-E0025. Part 5 ("E0025" in the example) represents the unique
number assigned by the trainer. The number is sequential and will always begin with the letter E. The
first number E0001 should be assigned to the first "photo exception" student completing training in a
given calendar year. More general information about creating the unique identification number is
available at: http://epa.gOv/lead/trainerinstructions.html#certificate.

EPA further recommends that training providers document the trainee's objection by having the trainee
sign a statement containing the following: "My refusal to be photographed is grounded upon a sincerely
held religious belief. I understand that if challenged, I may be found in noncompliance unless I can
demonstrate the sincerity of my religious beliefs." Training providers should submit a copy of this
statement to EPA in lieu of a photograph. For anyone who can demonstrate that his or her refusal to be
photographed is grounded upon a sincerely held religious belief this acknowledgement will be treated as
the equivalent of a certificate.

NOTE: Training providers may now use CDX to submit post-training notifications to EPA that contain the
above-described numbering protocol.

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Question (23002-35001):

I'm a certified renovator and am planning to take refresher training course soon to keep my certification
current. How long will my new certification last?

Answer:

Renovators who recertify by taking a refresher training course from an accredited training provider will
have certification that lasts for a period of five years from the date of training.

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Authorized State and Tribal Programs

Question (23002-18511)

If I completed renovator training in an authorized state, what do I need to do to work for an EPA certified
firm in EPA-administered jurisdictions?

Answer

There are no additional requirements. To become a certified renovator or certified dust sampling
technician, an individual must successfully complete the appropriate course accredited by EPA or by an
EPA-authorized State or Tribal program. The course completion certificate serves as proof of
certification.

For a list of states, tribes and territories authorized by EPA to administer their own programs, please refer
to the "firm certification" tab on this page https://www.epa.gov/lead/renovation-repair-and-painting-
program-contractors.

Question (23002-19752)

My firm is certified by an authorized state. Does this certification allow my firm to work in EPA-
administered jurisdictions?

Answer

No. You must apply for and receive EPA certification before offering, performing, or claiming to perform
renovations covered by the RRP Rule in EPA-administered jurisdictions.

Question (23002-19132)

Is my EPA renovator certification accepted in all states and tribal areas?

Answer

Not necessarily. Whether to accept certification from another jurisdiction is up to the individual state or
tribal area. EPA cannot compel states or tribes to adopt programs identical to the Federal program or to
establish reciprocity provisions. However, EPA continues to encourage states and tribes that may be
considering establishing their own renovation programs to keep reciprocity in mind as they move forward.

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Training Provider Accreditation

Question (23002-15092)

Do all renovation course instructors need to be approved as principal instructors? For example, to reach
a 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio with 18 people in the class, may we have one principal instructor who
teaches the entire lecture and is assisted by two additional hands-on instructors (who are not approved
as principal instructors)?

Answer

Every accredited training program must employ a qualified training manager, and it is the job of the
training manager to designate a qualified principal instructor for each course. The principal instructor is
responsible for the organization of the course and oversees the teaching of all course material. The
training manager may designate expert guest instructors as needed to provide instruction specific to the
lecture, hands-on activities, or work practice components of a course. In this case, where the principal
instructor will teach the entire course, qualified guest instructors may assist with the hands-on aspects of
the course material.

Question (23002-18403)

If a student in a renovator training course is unable to read and understand English, may the exam be
read to them in their native language?

Answer

No. Separate course accreditations are required for each renovation course a training provider offers that
is in a language other than English. Courses presented in a language other than English must use
instructor manuals, exams, and other course materials in that language that have been reviewed by EPA
as part of the accreditation process for the course.

Question (23002-19568)

May renovator training providers provide reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities?

Answer

Yes. However, to pass the course an individual must successfully complete the hands-on skills
assessment and receive a passing score on the course test.

Question (23002-19573)

May the renovator training provider give the exam orally?

Answer

Yes. There is no requirement that the course test be conducted in writing. Each individual must
successfully complete the hands-on skills assessment and receive a passing score on the course test to
pass any course.

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Question (23002-32491)

Is it permissible for a training provider to employ more than one training manager?

Answer

Yes. The Rule requires that a training provider employ a training manager that meets the qualifications in
40 CFR 745.225(c)(1). EPA does not interpret this to be a limitation on the permissible number of training
managers. Therefore, a training provider may employ more than one training manager so long as each
person meets all qualifications in 40 CFR 745.225(c)(1). New training providers seeking accreditation for
more than one training manager can do so by duplicating the application pages for "Applicant
Information," "Qualifications of Training Program Manager" and "Certification Statement" (Sections B, C
and I) - and attaching them with the rest of the application. An accredited training provider wishing to add
an additional training manager can do so by checking the "Amending Accreditation" box in Section A and
completing the application accordingly. In either case, the training provider should make it clear to EPA in
the application that they are seeking accreditation with multiple training managers.

Question (23002-35003):

I'm an accredited training provider. Can the final course assessment be administered in an "open book"
format?

Answer:

No. The training provider is responsible for maintaining the validity and integrity of the course test to
ensure that it accurately evaluates the trainee's knowledge and retention of the course topics. A course
test administered in an open book format does not evaluate whether a student has sufficiently learned
and retained the information in the course.

Question (23002-35002):

I'm a training provider and have been accredited for the renovator refresher course. If a renovator takes
the refresher course early (i.e., before their previous certification has expired), would the new certification
be valid for five years from the date of training, or five years from the date that the previous certification
expires?

Answer:

Renovator refresher training and recertification is valid for five years from the date of training.

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Enforcement and Inspections

Question (23002-24814)

Who would be liable for the fine if a state or local government that was not a certified firm hired a
contractor that was not certified?

Answer

The hired firm would be in violation of the RRP Rule if it was uncertified and performing a covered
renovation.

Question (23002-15532)

Does EPA's announcement of June 18, 2010 modify the Lead Renovation Repair and Painting Rule's
requirements that contractors use lead-safe work practices when working in pre-1978 housing or child-
occupied facilities?

Answer

This announcement does not change the requirement that all contractors take steps to protect children
and families from the dangers of lead poisoning by becoming certified and following the work practice
standards and the associated recordkeeping requirements. As of April 22, 2010 all contractors have been
required to be certified and follow the work practice standards described on EPA's website. The effect of
the June 18, 2010 memorandum only provides firms more time to apply for and obtain certification as a
lead-based paint renovation firm before active enforcement of the firm certification requirements begins.
EPA is also providing individual workers additional time to enroll in and take the required training course
to become certified lead-based paint renovators before active enforcement of the individual renovator
training requirements begins. EPA will use its enforcement authority to ensure compliance by enforcing
work practice standards and their associated recordkeeping requirements against all renovators and
firms. Therefore, renovators who have not been able to complete the training requirements are advised to
review EPA's model training materials available https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-safetv-renovation-repair-
and-painting-model-certified-renovator-initial-training-course. Additional information on lead-safe work
practices can be found at https://www.epa.gov/lead/small-entitv-compliance-guide-renovate-right-epas-
lead-based-paint-irenovat	or obtained from the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-

424-LEAD (5323).

All renovation firms, even those not yet certified under the RRP rule, are also reminded of their continuing
obligations to comply with Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule's pre-renovation information
distribution requirements, which require that before firms begin each renovation on pre-1978 housing or
child-occupied facilities and to comply with the associated recordkeeping requirements. These
requirements are explained in EPA's Small Entity Compliance Guide to Renovate Right, available at:
https://www.epa.gov/lead/small-entitv-compliance-guide-renovate-right-epas-lead-based-paint-
renovati o irt - ire pa i r-a irt d.

Question (23002-15654)

Does the June 18, 2010, announcement mean that EPA will not enforce certification and training
requirements until after October 1, 2010, for firms and December 31, 2010, for renovators?

Answer

EPA is not stopping its enforcement against any renovation firms and individual renovators who do not
comply with requirements of work practice standards and associated recordkeeping requirements.

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However, EPA is providing additional time for renovation firms and workers to obtain the necessary
training and certifications before enforcement of the firm certification and individual renovator
requirements begins.

• Renovation Firms. Until October 1, 2010, EPA will not take enforcement action for violations of
the RRP rule's firm certification requirement.

• Individual Renovators. EPA will not enforce against individual renovation workers for failure to
be trained if the person has applied to enroll in, or has enrolled in, by not later than September
30, 2010, a certified renovator class to train contractors in practices necessary for compliance
with the final rules. Individual renovators must complete the training by December 31, 2010.
Renovators who have not been able to complete the training requirements are advised to review
EPA's model training materials available at https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-safetv-renovation-
repair-and-painting-model-certified-renovator-initial-training-course. Additional information on
lead-safe work practices can be found at https://www.epa.gov/lead/small-entitv-compliance-
guide-renovate-right-epas-lead-based-paint-renovation-repair-and or obtained from the National
Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323).

Question (23002-20668)

Thousands of renovators are already trained and their firms are EPA certified. Will EPA enforce against
renovators who did not receive their training certification before December 31, 2010?

Answer

It is most important that all contractors follow the RRP work practice standards. However, EPA is
providing additional time for renovation firms and workers to obtain the necessary training and
certifications before the enforcement of the firm certification and individual renovator requirements begins.
Therefore, renovators who have not been able to complete the training requirements are advised to
review EPA's model training materials available at http://epa.gov/lead/training.html. Additional information
on lead-safe work practices can be found at https://www.epa.gov/lead/small-entitv-compliance-guide-
renovate-right-epas-lead-based-paint-renovation-repair-and or obtained from the National Lead
Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323).

Question (23002-17305)

How does the June 18, 2010 announcement impact renovators in states that have adopted their own
RRP programs?

Answer

If you work in a state authorized by EPA to run their own renovation program, you should contact them for
information on their certification requirements. If you work in a state where EPA administers the
renovation program your firm needs to be certified by EPA. Please refer to the "firm certification" tab on
this page for a list of states authorized by EPA to run their own renovation programs —
https://www.epa.gov/lead/renovation-repair-and-painting-program-contractors.

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Information for Do-lt-Yourselfers

Question (23002-16166)

How can homeowners protect themselves and their families from exposure to lead dust if they plan on
doing their own renovations?

Answer

The RRP Rule does not impose requirements on homeowners performing renovations in their own
homes. If you do decide to do a renovation yourself, it's very important to take precautions to protect you
and your family from exposure to lead dust. EPA recommends that you follow these simple procedures:

Contain the work area so that dust does not escape from the area. Cover floors and furniture that
cannot be moved with heavy duty plastic and tape, and seal off doors and heating and cooling system
vents;

Keep children, pregnant women, and pets out of the work area at all times;

Minimize dust during the project by using techniques that generate less dust, such as wet sanding or
scraping, or using sanders or grinders that have HEPA vacuum attachments which capture the dust that
is generated; and

Clean up thoroughly by using a HEPA vacuum and wet wiping to clean up dust and debris on
surfaces and wet mopping the floors with plenty of rinse water before taking down plastic over doors,
windows, and vents.

For more specific information on how to perform renovation, repair, and painting projects safely in your
own home, go to https://www.epa.gov/lead/ or call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-
LEAD.

Lead Abatement, Risk Assessment and Inspection

Question (23002-32437)

Do I ever need to be recertified for lead-based paint abatement?

Answer

Yes, you must be recertified every three or five years. Your EPA certificate will indicate when your
certification expires. See the Recertification Fact Sheet for further information.

Question (23002-32429)

When must I apply for certification?

Answer

You must complete the application process, including the third party exam (if required for your discipline),
before the expiration date of your interim certification. Submit your application for certification to EPA
within 30 days of completing your initial training course so that you have plenty of time to take the third
party exam and ensure that your application is complete before your interim certification expires.

Question (23002-32431)

Besides the initial training course, what are the education, experience and training requirements for each
discipline?

89

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Answer

Training requirements for lead-based paint abatement disciplines are as follows:

•	Lead-Based Paint Inspector

o None.

•	Lead-Based Paint Risk Assessor

o Pass an accredited inspector course,
o Meet one of the following requirements:

¦	Bachelor's degree and one year of experience in a related field, or

¦	an Associates degree and two years experience in a related field; or

¦	Certification as an industrial hygienist, professional engineer, registered architect
and/or certification in a related engineering/health/environmental field, or

¦	A high school diploma (or equivalent), and at least three years of experience in a

related field.

•	Lead-Based Paint Abatement Supervisor

o Meet one of the following requirements:

¦	One year of experience as a certified lead-based paint abatement worker, or

¦	At least two years of experience in a related field.

•	Lead-Based Paint Project Designer

o Pass an accredited supervisor course,
o Meet one of the following requirements:

¦	Bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, or a related profession, and one
year of experience in building construction and design or a related field, or

¦	Four years of experience in building construction and design or a related field.

•	Lead-Based Paint Abatement Worker

o None.

Question (23002-32444)

How do I apply for recertification?

Answer

Application for recertification is done online. You must take an accredited refresher training course and
then be prepared to attach the following when completing your online application:

•	PDF copy of your course completion certificate.

•	Passport photograph (JPG format preferred).

•	Credit card, debit card, or information needed to complete an ACH payment of the applicable fee.

Question (23002-32442)

What must I do to be recertified?

Answer

Prior to the expiration of your current certificate, you must take an accredited refresher training course,
you must apply to EPA for recertification, and you must pay a recertification fee.

Question (23002-32439)

Must I take a third party certification exam?

90

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Answer

No third party exam is required for recertification, even if you choose to take another initial training course
rather than a refresher training course.

Question (23002-32445)

When do I apply for recertification?

Answer

You must be recertified by EPA before your current certification expires. EPA therefore recommends that
you submit your application for recertification no later than 90 days before your current certification
expires.

Question (23002-32440)

When must I take refresher training?

Answer

You must take refresher training before you apply for recertification to EPA. You should begin looking for
available courses well before your current certification expires, because refresher courses may not be
available in your area on a frequent basis. However, EPA recommends that you take your refresher
training no earlier than 18 months before your current certification expires. You will not lose time from
your current certification if you take refresher training early. When you apply for recertification, EPA will
issue you a certificate that begins on your current expiration date and expires three years from that date.
If you are unable to find an accredited refresher course in your discipline, you may take an accredited
initial course in your discipline. If you choose this option, you must successfully complete the entire
course.

Question (23002-32436)

What if I do not complete the lead-based paint certification application process before my interim
certification expires?

Answer

You must have completed the application process and received a certificate from EPA within six months
of receiving your course completion certificate. If the application process is not completed you must
retake the appropriate course from an accredited training program and reapply for certification from EPA.
If you do not receive a certificate from EPA before your interim certification expires you cannot conduct
lead-based paint activities.

Question (23002-32435)

What will happen when EPA receives my lead-based paint certification application?

Answer

If you are applying for certification as an Inspector, Risk Assessor, or Supervisor, EPA will send you a
letter that instructs you how to register for and take the required third party exam for that discipline. If you

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are applying for certification as a Project Designer or Worker, EPA will begin processing your application
as soon as it is complete.

Question (23002-32430)

How do I apply for certification?

Answer

Application for certification is done online. You must have the following materials available in order to

apply:

• PDF copy of your course completion certificate.

• Passport photograph (JPG format preferred).

• Credit card, debit card, or information needed to complete an ACH payment of the applicable fee.

• PDF copies of evidence that you meet all of the education, experience, and training requirements
for the discipline (e.g., academic transcripts, resume, and training course completion certificates).

Question (23002-32427)

When may I begin conducting lead-based paint activities?

Answer

You may begin work immediately after receiving a course completion certificate from an initial training
course that is accredited by EPA. This certificate serves as interim certification for six months following
completion of training. This gives you time to complete the certification process, including taking the third
party exam (if required for your discipline). However, if you do not pass the exam within 6 months your
interim certification will expire and you will not be able to work.

Question (23002-32432)

What if I am already certified by an EPA authorized state or tribal program?

Answer

If you are already certified by an EPA-authorized program in a particular discipline, and you want to btain
Federal certification, you must be prepared to submit the following in your online application:

• Copy of your currently valid certificate (license/permit) from the authorized State or Tribe.

• Passport photograph (JPG format preferred).

• Credit card, debit card, or information needed to complete an ACH payment of the applicable fee.

• You do not need to take an EPA-accredited initial training course or the third-party exam.

Question (23002-32433)

Are there any special requirements for the passport photos?

Answer

You must submit a passport photograph of you alone (JPG format preferred). The photographs must be:

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•	Recent enough to be a good likeness (taken within the last six months);

•	Clear with a front view of your face taking up the majority of the area (no hats or dark glasses)
with a white/off-white background; and

•	Focused on your head and shoulders.

Also please note that retouched, and profile images are not acceptable.

Question (23002-32438)

Where can I get more information about lead-based paint abatement certification?

Answer

Information regarding certification under EPA's lead-based paint abatement program is available at
https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-based-paint-activities-professionals.

Question (23002-32443)

Which refresher training courses must I take?

Answer

You must take an accredited refresher training course for each discipline in which you are certified. The
courses must be accredited either by EPA or by an EPA-authorized state or tribal lead-based paint
program.

Question (23002-32428)

What activities may each discipline perform?

Answer

Disciplines may perform as follows:

•	Inspectors may perform inspection and post-abatement clearance activities;

•	Risk assessors may perform inspection, post-abatement clearance, lead hazard screen, and risk
assessment activities;

•	Abatement supervisors may supervise abatement projects and prepare occupant protection plans

and abatement reports; Supervisors may also perform all of the abatement activities that may be
performed by abatement workers;

•	Project designers may prepare occupant protection plans and abatement reports for abatement
projects; and

•	Abatement workers may conduct abatement activities under the direction of certified abatement
supervisors.

Question (23002-33452)

What is the definition of abatement? How do I determine if a particular activity is a regulated abatement
activity?

Answer

Abatement is defined at 40 C.F.R. 745.223 as any measure or set of measures designed to permanently
eliminate lead-based paint hazards. Following this basic definition are four numbered paragraphs (1)-(4)
that provide a non-exhaustive list of examples of what is or is not abatement. Persons attempting to

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determine whether an activity is abatement, and therefore subject to regulation, should consider both the
basic definition in the initial paragraph of 40 C.F.R. 745.223 and the examples and exclusions in
paragraphs (1)-(4) that follow. If an activity is not expressly included or excluded in paragraphs (1)-(4), the
activity is still abatement if it falls within the basic definition (i.e., a measure or set of measures designed
to permanently eliminate lead-based paint hazards). Conversely, if an activity is included in paragraphs
(1)-(4) but is not designed to permanently eliminate lead-based paint hazards, the activity is not
abatement.

Question (23002-33438)

Can a rental property owner perform lead abatement on an unoccupied residential property without
meeting the abatement training and certification requirements?

Answer

No. Persons wishing to perform lead abatements are exempt from the abatement training and certification
requirements only if they meet all of the following requirements at 40 CFR 745.220(b):

1. The person is the owner of the residential dwelling.

2. The residential dwelling is occupied by the owner or the owner's immediate family.

3. A child with an elevated blood lead level (EBL) is not residing in or occupying the residential
dwelling.

The exemption in 40 CFR 745.220(b) is strictly intended to cover homeowners performing lead-based
paint activities in their own homes. Whether the property is unoccupied or occupied by someone other
than the owner or the owner's immediate family at the time the lead-based paint activities are performed
does not affect the applicability of the exclusion. The second criterion above is intended to exclude rental
property. The exemption would not apply to homeowners performing lead-based paint activities in a
house they owned and rented out to others. Additionally, the exemption does not apply to a homeowner's
residence when there is a child with elevated blood lead levels occupying the house. This third criterion
was added in response to public comments on the proposed rule. The restriction was intended to protect
the most sensitive populations, children with elevated blood lead levels, from potential lead exposure
during lead abatements conducted by untrained homeowners. Therefore, landlords would only be eligible
for the exemption when they meet all of the above criteria. Example: Mr. Smith owns Houses A and B,
lives in House A, and rents out House B. He would be eligible for the exemption under 40 CFR
745.220(b) if he abated House A and did not have a child with elevated blood lead levels living in House
A. Mr. Smith would not be eligible for the exemption if he abated House B, because he and/or his
immediate family are not residing in House B. Even if Mr. Smith relocated the tenants during the
abatement or waited to do the abatement when House B was between rentals, he still would not be
eligible for the exemption for House B.

Question (23002-33459)

If a person is the principal instructor or guest instructor for an initial or refresher course for one of the
disciplines, can that person rely on his or her instruction of the course to fulfill the training requirement for
certification in that discipline.

Answer

No. A person who is a principal instructor or guest instructor for a course may not rely on that course to
fulfill requirements for certification. The requirements at 745.226(b)(1)(i) and (c)(1)(i) say that to become
certified a person must "successfully complete an accredited course in the appropriate discipline and
receive a course completion certificate from an accredited training program." A person may be re-certified
in a discipline if he or she "successfully completes the appropriate accredited refresher training course
and submits a valid copy of the appropriate refresher course completion certificate." 40 CFR
745.226(e)(2). Under the accreditation requirements in 745.225(c)(7), each person "must successfully
complete the hands-on skills assessment and receive a passing score on the course test to pass any

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course." To successfully complete training requirements, persons seeking certification just complete the
training as students rather than as instructors. This will maximize each person's participation in the
training, including the hands-on components, and will ensure that each person's qualifications are
independently and objectively evaluated through the course test.

Question (23002-33458)

Are there any American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) standards that EPA considers "documented
methodologies"?

Answer

Yes. ASTM Standards are voluntary consensus standards developed after careful review by technical
committees which generally include EPA and HUD staff. ASTM Standards relating to lead often reference
EPA and HUD documents, just as EPA and HUD documents often reference appropriate ASTM
Standards. Although EPA did not specifically list ASTM Standards by name in its list of documented
methodologies at §745.227(a)(3), EPA considers ASTM Standards to be "other equivalent methods". For
example, the ASTM has developed the following standards which apply to collection and analysis lead
samples in paint, dust or soil: ASTM E1726, "Standard Practice for Sample Digestion of soils for the
Determination of Lead by Atomic Spectrometry." ASTM E1727, "Standard Practice for Field Collection of
Soil Samples for Lead Determination by Atomic Spectrometry Techniques." ASTM E1728, "Standard
Practice for Field Collection of Settled Dust Samples Using Wipe Sampling Methods for Lead
Determination by Atomic Spectrometry." ASTM E1729, "Standard Practice for Field Collection of Dried
Paint Samples for Lead Determination by Atomic Spectrometry." ASTM E1792, "Standard Specification
for Wipe Sampling Materials for Lead in Surface Dust." EPA recognizes that the field is still changing
and that new and better technologies and methods are still under development. EPA drafted the
regulatory text broadly so as to not limit the use of these future methodologies. Should ASTM develop
other relevant standards in the future, EPA would also consider them to be documented methodologies.

Question (23002-33454)

Did the final TSCA section 403 rule say who may make a hazard determination?

Answer

No. Although the TSCA section 403 rule defines a hazard determination, it did not specify who may make
hazard determinations. The TSCA section 403 rule amended the work practice standards in 40 C.F.R.
745.227 by adding §745.227(h) - "Determinations," which explains what constitutes lead-based paint, a
paint-lead hazard, a dust-lead hazard, or a soil-lead hazard. The TSCA section 402 rule, which
established the work practice standards in §745.227, already requires that a lead hazard screen or risk
assessment be conducted by a certified risk assessor (§745.227(c)(1) or §745.227(d)(1), respectively)
and that post-abatement clearance be conducted by a certified inspector or risk assessor
(§745.227(e)(8)(i)). Therefore, when hazard determinations are made as part of lead hazard screens and
risk assessments or when post-abatement clearance is conducted, these activities must be done by a
certified individual following all of the appropriate work practice standards in §745.227. Likewise, when
hazard determinations are made as part of activities under EPA's Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP)
Rule, these activities must be done by a certified individual following the appropriate work practices in
§745.85. Further, EPA-authorized state programs may have different requirements, including additional
requirements for hazard determinations. Therefore, it is important for individuals to review the specific
regulations for the states where they will be working. Although EPA does not specify who may make a
hazard determination, EPA does specify what constitutes a hazard determination. As part of the final
TSCA section 403 rule EPA added §745.227(h) "Determinations" which explains generally how to
determine the presence of lead-based paint, paint-lead hazards, dust-lead hazards, and soil-lead
hazards. These are the requirements for EPA's Federal program. EPA-authorized state programs may
address hazard determinations differently. When lead-based paint hazards are reported for any purposes,

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it will always be important to indicate the source of the data so that anyone to whom the information is
being provided may consider the accuracy of the data when determining its significance.

Question (23002-33456)

The definition of "wipe sample" relies on two very specific American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM)
standards. In referencing the ASTM standards, did EPA intend to prevent the use of EPA and HUD
standards for wipe samples?

Answer

No. In establishing work practice standards for lead-based paint activities, EPA did not intend to prevent
the use of EPA/HUD standards. As a general matter, the requirements are not prescriptive, but instead
state that certain activities be conducted using appropriate documented methodologies. For example,
§745.227(c)(3) requires that dust samples be taken using documented methodologies that incorporate
adequate quality control procedures. At §745.227(a)(3), EPA lists documented methodologies that are
appropriate for the work practice standards, including the HUD Guidelines and certain EPA
methodologies, and also states that "other equivalent methods" are acceptable. Although the definition of
"wipe sample" refers specifically to ASTM standards, EPA does not interpret this as limiting the
acceptable standards to those of ASTM. EPA considers the description of wipe materials found in the
HUD Guidelines for Evaluation and Control of Lead-Based Paint Hazards in Housing, June1995 edition,
at Appendix 13.1, "Wipe Sampling for Settled Lead-Contaminated Dust" and the discussion of wipes on
pp. 15-16 of EPA's document Residential Sampling for Lead: Protocols for Dust and Soil Sampling,

March 1995, EPA 747-R-95-001 to be the equivalent of the ASTM standards, and therefore, acceptable
for use.

Question (23002-33457)

The definition of "soil sample" at 40 CFR §745.63 relies on certain American Society of Testing Materials
(ASTM) standards. Did EPA intend to prevent the use of EPA and HUD standards for soil samples?

Answer

No. In establishing work practice standards for lead-based paint activities, EPA did not intend to prevent
the use of EPA/HUD standards. As a general matter, the requirements are not prescriptive but instead
state that certain activities be conducted using appropriate documented methodologies. For example,
§745.227(c)(3) requires that dust samples be taken using documented methodologies that incorporate
adequate quality control procedures. At §745.227(a)(3), EPA lists documented methodologies that are
appropriate for the work practice standards, including the HUD Guidelines and certain EPA
methodologies, and also states that "other equivalent methods" are acceptable. Although the definition of
"soil sample" refers specifically to ASTM standards, EPA does not interpret this as limiting the acceptable
standards to those of ASTM. EPA considers HUD's Appendix 13.3: "Soil Sampling: Protocol for Housing,"
("Guidelines for the Evaluation and Control of Lead-Based Paint Hazards in Housing," June 1995) and
EPA's "Protocol for Collection of Soil Samples for Lead Determination " (pp. 6-14 of "Residential Sampling
for Lead: Protocols for Dust and Soil Sampling, Final Report," EPA 747-R-95-001, March 1995), to be the
equivalent of the ASTM standards, and therefore, acceptable for use.

Question (23002-33441)

Does TSCA section 402 apply to U.S. military bases, facilities, and installations located outside of the
U.S.?

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Answer

No. EPA does not have authority to regulate environmental conditions in foreign countries. Environmental
compliance by Department of Defense installations overseas is governed by a number of documents. For
example, Executive Order 12088, dated October 13, 1978, requires that the heads of government
agencies responsible for constructing or operating Federal facilities outside of the United States must
ensure that the construction or operation of those facilities complies with the environmental laws of the
host country or jurisdiction. This general requirement applies to all Department of Defense installations
outside the United States, its territories and possessions. Military facilities may also be subject to treaties
or other bilateral or multilateral agreements.

Question (23002-33455)

Do EPA's current rules require inspectors, risk assessors, dust sampling technicians, or any individual
who performs lead-based paint and/or lead dust sampling to document any visible lead-based paint
deterioration on components and estimate the surface area of deteriorating paint during a lead
evaluation?

Answer

It depends on the type of evaluation being done. The work practice standards at 40 C.F.R. 745.227
provide instructions for addressing deteriorated lead-based paint during lead hazard screens, risk
assessments, and post-abatement clearance activities. Inspections only examine the presence of lead-
based paint and do not consider deterioration. Instructions for dust sampling technicians performing
optional post-renovation clearance are provided at 40 C.F.R. 745.90.

Question (23002-33651)

What is the difference between Abatement Certification and Renovation (RRP) Certification?

Answer

Abatement certification, also known as Lead-Based Paint Activities certification, is a specialized type of
certification for firms who specifically work with lead-based paint such as lead abatement firms, lead risk
assessor firms, and lead inspection firms. Abatement is the intentional and permanent elimination of
lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards. Renovation (RRP) certification is appropriate for firms
who disturb paint in pre-1978 residences and child-occupied facilities simply as a consequence of doing
other work. It covers a broad range of firms including renovators, carpenters, painters, electricians,
plumbers, handymen, and more. These firms do NOT need abatement certification.

Question (23002-33462)

Must refresher course completion certificates for lead-based paint abatement certification bear an
expiration date?

Answer

No. The requirement that a completion certificate include an expiration date only applies to "interim
certifications." Refresher course completion certificates do not expire in the Federal program. Specifically,
40 CFR 745.225(e)(4) and (e)(5)(vi), in describing requirements for refresher courses, refer back to 40
CFR 745.225(c), the requirements for initial course programs. However, 40 CFR 745.225(c)(8)(iv), which
states that course completion certificates must bear the interim certification expiration date, does not
apply to refresher course completion certificates. "Interim certification," as that term is defined in 40 CFR
745.223, describes the status of a person who has successfully completed a training course but who has

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not yet received formal certification from EPA. The term is not applicable to persons who have already
been certified. Accordingly, there is no interim certification date to display on a refresher course
completion certificate. Moreover, 40 CFR 745.226(e) states that a certified person must be re-certified by
EPA every three years, or every five years, if the person's initial course included a proficiency test. Unlike
the interim certification, which allows a person to work for up to six months before being fully certified, a
certification of a person who has already been certified will expire on the applicable anniversary date
(three or five years), unless they have taken the refresher course and been re-certified prior to the
expiration of their current certification. There is no provision allowing this deadline to be extended (or
shortened) based on the completion date of a refresher course. Imprinting a refresher course completion
certificate with an expiration date six months from the date the certificate is issued could mislead certified
individuals into thinking that they have six months from the date they complete their refresher course to
become re-certified regardless of when their certification expires. This is incorrect and may cause a
person's certification to lapse. In addition, such an expiration date could also be misleading because it
implies that a certified person must take a refresher course no more than six months before his or her
current certification expires. EPA has no such requirement. On the contrary, EPA recommends that
refresher training be taken more than 18 months before an individual's current certification expires.

Question (23002-33447)

Must all persons present on an abatement job site be certified?

Answer

No. The regulations at 745.220(b) require that persons engaged in lead-based paint activities defined in
745.223 must be certified. The work practice standards at 745.227 are specific as to which disciplines
may perform which lead-based paint activities. However, EPA recognizes that other activities such as
interim controls may also be conducted at sites simultaneously with abatement and other lead-based
paint activities. Only persons working on abatement job sites who are engaged in activities described as
inspections, lead-hazard screens, risk assessments or abatements are required to be certified in the
appropriate disciplines. Under 745.226(g)(1), EPA may suspend, revoke, or modify an individual's
certification if an individual has performed work that required certification when appropriate certification
had not previously been obtained or failed to comply with the work practice standards at 745.227 or with
other appropriate lead-based paint regulations.

Question (23002-33453)

Immediately following the completion of renovation activities, a company conducts a clearance
examination which reveals dust levels above the clearance standard. Is removal of dust to address the
failure of this clearance examination considered abatement?

Answer

No. The removal of dust to address the failure of the clearance examination would be considered part of
cleanup from the renovation. Routine cleanup of renovation-related dust is not abatement, even if the
dust is known to be above the dust lead hazard standard. For more information on lead-safe work
practices or to find a professional certified by EPA, see EPA's website at http: www.epa.gov/lead or
contact the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD.

Question (23002-33443)

I took a lead-based paint activities course accredited by an authorized State, but I'm seeking certification
from EPA. What must I submit?

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Answer

Individuals seeking EPA certification under the provisions of 745.226(a)(1)(H) may take courses
accredited by authorized States or Tribes. However, they must also complete their certification in the
authorized State or Tribe and submit a valid lead-based paint activities certification from the authorized
State or Tribe when applying for EPA certification.

Question (23002-33449)

Can a supervisor carry out worker activities?

Answer

Yes. Both the training and the education and experience requirements of supervisors cover the same
topics required of workers in addition to the topics specific to supervisors. In order to supervise workers,
supervisors must know how to carry out worker activities.

Question (23002-33439)

If a homeowner wishes to perform lead abatement on his own home, but the home is visited on occasion
by a child with elevated blood lead levels, is that homeowner subject to regulatory requirements (training,
certification, work practice standards, etc.)

Answer

It depends. If a child with elevated blood lead levels spends an amount of time in the home that would
meet the definition of "child-occupied facility" at 40 CFR 745.223, a homeowner conducting lead
abatement on that home would not be eligible for the exemption at 40 CFR 745.220(b). However, if a
child with elevated blood lead levels spends an amount of time in the home that is less than the time
required in the definition of "child-occupied facility," a homeowner would be eligible for the exemption.

Question (23002-33444)

When individuals apply for certification in the Federal program under 40 C.F.R. 745.226(a)(1)(i), how long
will the certification last?

Answer

For individuals who have taken courses which included a course test and a hands-on skills assessment,
the full certification period for individuals applying under 745.226(a)(1)(i) will run for three years from the
date of issuance of certification by EPA. For individuals who have taken courses which included a
proficiency test instead of the course test and hands-on skills assessment, the full certification period
would run for five years from the date of issuance of certification by EPA.

Question (23002-33608)

Where can I get more information or copies of the application forms and instructions?

Answer

General information, forms, and instructions are available from the National Lead Information Center
(NLIC) at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323). Get forms and instructions.

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Question (23002-33446)

If I complete an EPA-accredited abatement course and receive EPA certification where am I eligible to
work?

Answer

EPA runs the Federal abatement program under Subpart L in all States and Indian Tribes that have not
received authorization under Subpart Q to operate their own programs. If you are certified by EPA under
the lead-based paint abatement program you are eligible to work in all EPA administered jurisdictions.
Here's a link to the current list of jurisdications where EPA runs the lead abatement program —
https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-based-paint-activities-professionals.

Question (23002-33445)

When individuals apply for certification in the Federal program under the provisions of 745.226(a)(1)(H) by
submitting a valid certification from an authorized State or Tribe, how long will the certification last?

Answer

The full certification period for individuals applying under the provisions of 745.226(a)(1)(ii) will be three
years from the date of issuance of certification by EPA.

Question (23002-33440)

If a person purchases a house and plans to conduct a lead abatement before moving his or her family
into the house, is that person subject to regulatory requirements (training, certification, work practice
standards, etc.) at 40 C.F.R. 745 Subpart L?

Answer

No. If the person intends to perform lead abatement himself, owns the home, intends to use the home as
a residence for himself or his immediate family, and a child with an elevated blood lead level (EBL) will
not reside in or occupy the home, then the person is excluded from regulation pursuant to 745.220(b).

Question (23002-33464)

For initial certification, the Federal program allows individuals to obtain their training through either the
Federal program or a Federally authorized State or Tribal Program. When applying for recertification in
the Federal program, what types of accreditation are acceptable for refresher courses?

Answer

For the refresher training requirement, an individual can take courses that are accredited by either the
Federal program or an EPA-authorized State or Tribal program. While the regulatory language regarding
recertification does not specify whether "accredited refresher training course" includes courses accredited
by EPA-authorized States and Territories, this interpretation is consistent with the approach taken for
initial certification, wherein a valid certificate from an authorized State or Tribal program (see
745.226(a)(1)(ii)) is considered equivalent to a certificate issued by a Federally accredited training
provider.

100

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Question (23002-33450)

Does a supervisor need to be certified as a worker to conduct lead-based paint activities normally
conducted by certified workers?

Answer

No.

Question (23002-33463)

In some areas of the country, refresher courses are offered infrequently. Can an individual applying for
recertification lead-based paint activity discipline re-take an initial course instead of taking a refresher
course?

Answer

Yes. Workers, Supervisors, and Inspectors can simply re-take the initial course(s) for their discipline(s).
The situation is somewhat different for Project Designers and Risk Assessors. During the course of initial
certification Project Designers must take both the Supervisor course and the Project Designer course.
Likewise, a Risk Assessor must take both the Inspector course and the Risk Assessor course. In order to
ensure that Project Designers and Risk Assessors receive refresher training in the full range of subject
matter relevant to their expertise, they would have to retake all of the courses that were required for their
initial certification. Therefore, when taking initial courses in lieu of refresher courses, Project Designers
would need to re-take both the Supervisor and Project Designer initial courses and Risk Assessors would
need to re-take both the Inspector and Risk Assessor initial courses.

Question (23002-33442)

Must employees of Federal agencies who conduct lead-based paint activities be certified as individuals?
Must their agencies be certified as firms? Must Federal agencies pay certification fees for individuals and
firms?

Answer

Yes. TSCA section 408 generally requires Federal agencies and their employees to comply with all
Federal, State, interstate, and local requirements, both substantive and procedural, respecting lead-
based paint, lead-based paint activities, and lead-based paint hazards in the same manner and to the
same extent as any non-governmental entity is subject to such requirements. The regulations at 40 CFR
745.220(c) specifically state that Federal government agencies and their employees must comply with the
requirements of 40 CFR part 745, subpart L. This includes payment of certification fees. Therefore,
Federal employees who conduct lead-based paint activities as defined in 745.223 must be certified as
individuals, and Federal agencies whose employees conduct lead-based paint activities must be certified
as firms. To become certified, these individuals and firms must pay certification fees.

Question (23002-33451)

If a person takes supervisor training, is that person qualified to seek certification as a worker?

Answer

Yes. The training requirements of supervisors cover the same topics required of workers and there are no
additional education or experience requirements for workers. Therefore, a person who successfully
completes supervisor training would be qualified to seek certification as a worker.

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Question (23002-33461)

Can a training provider that is accredited only in a Federal program state teach a course at a location in
an authorized State that would lead to certification in the Federal program?

Answer

The Federal program does not restrict the location where Federal program training courses can be
provided. In other words, a federally-accredited training provider may provide training in any state, and
the resultant certification would enable a person to work in all federal program states. However, the
Federally-accredited training provider must comply with federal lead-based paint program regulations,
including the requirement that the training provider list the location of its facilities, including facilities in
authorized States, in its original or amended accreditation application. The training provider must also
notify EPA before and after conducting the course. These notices must include a valid EPA accreditation
number for the lead-based paint activities course being offered. Additionally, if a federally-accredited
training provider is planning on providing training at a location in an authorized State, EPA recommends
that the training provider confer with the authorized State to determine whether the State allows the
advertising or teaching of courses not accredited by that State, requires notification of training, or imposes
any other requirements.

Question (23002-33460)

Can a training provider that is accredited only in an authorized State teach a course in an out-of-state
location that would lead to certification in the authorized State?

Answer

Because the training provider is not Federally-accredited and is not offering a course that would lead to
EPA certification, the Federal lead-based paint program regulations do not apply. However, EPA
recommends that the training provider discuss applicable State program requirements with the authorized
State.

Question (23002-36711)

Must self-employed or one-person businesses that perform lead-based paint activities, such as lead-
based paint inspections, risk assessments, or abatements, be certified as firms in addition to being
certified as individuals?

Answer

Yes. Under 745.226(a)(5), individuals performing lead-based paint activities must be certified, so all self-
employed persons must be certified as individuals in the appropriate discipline(s). In addition, the
definition of certified firm at 745.223 includes sole proprietorships that perform lead-based paint activities.
The definition of certified firm also includes other business entities that perform lead-based paint
activities. This includes all other one-person businesses that would not be considered to be sole
proprietorships. Under 745.226(f)(1), all firms performing or offering to perform lead-based paint activities
must be certified. Therefore, any person who is self-employed or operating a one-person business which
performs or offers to perform lead-based paint activities, must be certified in the appropriate individual
disciplines as required by 745.226(a) and must also be certified as a firm under 745.226(f).

Question (23002-33448)

When do persons applying for certification as inspectors, risk assessors, or supervisors apply to EPA,
before or after taking the 3rd party exam?

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Answer

Persons applying for certification as inspectors, risk assessors, and/or supervisors must apply to EPA
before taking the 3rd party certification exam. For more information about applying for certification as a
lead-based paint abatement professional please refer to EPA's Lead-based Paint Professionals page at
https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-based-paint-activities-professionals

Applying for Certification or Accreditation

Question (23002-37001)

What is the difference between Lead-Based Paint Activities (Abatement) and Renovation, Repair, and
Painting (RRP)?

Answer

Abatement is a specialized activity designed to address lead in the home. RRP activities (including most
home contracting work) disturb paint as a consequence of the activity, but they are often undertaken for
reasons unrelated to lead issues. For more information about distinctions between the 2 activities,
click here.

Question (23002-37002)

How does my firm become Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Certified?

Answer

EPA's Renovation, Repair, and Painting program applies to all states, tribes and territories where EPA
has not specifically provided authorization for that state, tribe or territory to operate the program
themselves.

Currently, there are 14 states and 1 tribe that are authorized by EPA to operate their own RRP programs
in lieu of the federal program. Contractors working in these states: Alabama, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa,
Kansas, Massachusetts, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah,
Washington, and Wisconsin, or in the Bois Forte Tribe should contact the respective state or tribe for
more information about their training and certification requirements. Links to these state programs are
available here. Note that if you work in more than one state, you may need both EPA federal and state
certifications.

Firms operating in all other states, territories or tribes administered by EPA can become certified by first
searching for their firm online at https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-renovationabatement-firm-certification-
application-or-update. If you cannot locate your firm using the search and can confirm your firm does not
have a current or pending certification, you can begin an application to certify a new firm using the link
provided at the bottom of the "Results" page. Please note that the search results area of the webpage has
its own scroll bar separate from the main page, you need to scroll to the bottom of this area to see the link
to begin a new firm application. If you work in more than one state, you may need both EPA federal and
state certifications.

Question (23002-37003)

How does my firm become Abatement Certified?

Answer

EPA's Abatement program applies to all states, tribes and territories where EPA has not specifically
provided authorization for that state, tribe or territory to operate the program themselves.

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EPA only administers the abatement program in the following states, tribes and territories: Alaska,
Arizona, Florida, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, South Carolina, South Dakota,
and Wyoming or American Samoa, Guam, the Marianas and all tribal lands except the Cherokee

Nation. Upper and Lower Sioux Nations, and the Bois Forte Band. Contractors working in these areas
can become certified by first searching for their firm online at https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-
renovationabatement-firm-certification-application-or-update. If you cannot locate your firm using the
search and can confirm your firm does not have a current or pending certification, you can begin an
application to certify a new firm using the link provided at the bottom of the "Results" page. Please note
that the search results area of the webpage has its own scroll bar separate from the main page, you need
to scroll to the bottom of this area to see the link to begin a new firm application. If you work in more than
one state, you may need both EPA federal and state certifications.

Firms operating in any states, territories or tribes not listed in the previous paragraph should contact the
respective state or tribe for more information about their training and certification requirements. Links to
these state programs are available here. Note that if you work in more than one state, you may need
both EPA federal and state certifications.

Question (23002-37004)

Who is the attesting individual?

Answer

The attesting individual is the individual completing the application, who affirms that their firm will only use
certified people and appropriate work practice standards as required under § 745.227 when conducting
lead-based paint activities.

Question (23002-37005)

How can I find the status of my Firm application?

Answer

You will receive an email from lead.paint@epa.gov when your application is approved. The email will
include PDF copies of your approval letter and certificate. Renovation firms will also receive a customized
logo and guidelines for its use in the approval email. Applications are typically processed in 2 to 3 weeks.
You will be contacted if an issue arises in the processing of your application.

Firms can check the status of their certification application, download a copy of a recently issued
certificate, or retrieve their customized Lead program logo online on EPA's E-Enterprise portal. To access
this service, go to EPA's E-Enterprise portal, select "Exchange Network", then login using your CDX user
ID and password. Once logged in go to the "Progress Tracker" section for your firm information.

Question (23002-37006)

It's been several weeks since I applied for Firm certification and I haven't received my certificate yet.

What do I do?

Answer

Approvals are sent by email, and occasionally these messages are end up in your junk or spam email
folder. Check in your Junk or Spam folders for an email from lead.paint@epa.gov.

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Question (23002-37007)

What if I accidentally submitted my application for the wrong certification? (i.e., I requested Firm RRP
certification instead of Abatement certification)

Answer

Contact the CDX Help Desk at 1-888-890-1995 (870-494-5500 for international callers) or
IheIpdesk@epacdx.net for assistance.

Question (23002-37008)

Can everyone at my firm use the same CDX account?

Answer

No. A CDX account can only be registered to one person, and cannot be shared or transferred. Misuse of
credentials for a government system is a federal offense.

Question (23002-37009)

How do I become certified as an Individual in the Lead Abatement program?

Answer

EPA's Abatement program applies to all states, tribes and territories where EPA has not specifically
provided authorization for that state, tribe or territory to operate the program themselves.

EPA only administers the abatement program in the following states, tribes and territories: Alaska,
Arizona, Florida, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, South Carolina, South Dakota,
Wyoming, American Samoa, Guam, and the Northern Marianas. EPA also administers the program in
all Tribal Lands with the exception of Cherokee Nation, Lower Sioux Nation, Upper Sioux Community,
and Bois Forte Band. Individuals working in these areas that are seeking a Lead Abatement Certification
or Recertification must submit applications online by following

https://cfpulb.epa.gov/fllpp/pub/index.cfm?do=main.individualSearch and proceeding to Central Data
Exchange (CDX), EPA's electronic reporting system, from there.

Individuals working in any states, territories or tribes not listed in the previous paragraph should contact
the respective state or tribe for more information about their training and certification requirements. Links
to these state programs are available he ire. Note that if you work in more than one state, you may need
both EPA federal and state certifications.

Question (23002-37010)

How do I become accredited as a Training Provider?

Answer

Trainers seeking accreditation in an EPA administered state must submit their applications and fees
online through EPA's CDX system, the EPA's electronic reporting system: https://cdx.epa.gov. If you have
not previously created a CDX account, click "Register with CDX", accept the terms, choose "LEAD: Lead-
Based Paint Program", and select "Training Provider Application". Complete the application as necessary
- it will gather your program's information and allow you to pay the appropriate fees securely. A
confirmation email will be sent to your inbox when an application is completed.

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Trainers seeking accreditation in states, states tribes and territories not administered by EPA should
contact the respective state or tribe for more information about their training and certification
requirements. Note that if you work in more than one state, you may need both EPA federal and state
certifications.

The following links provide more information about applying for accreditation as an abatement or
renovation trainer. They also include links to states, tribes, and territories authorized by EPA to run their
own programs.

•	For information on becoming an accredited abatement training provider.

•	For information on becoming an accredited renovation training provider.

Question (23002-37011)

How can I find the status of my Individual application?

Answer

For applications that do not require a third-party exam you will receive an approval package by mail when
your application is approved. Please note that processing times may vary, but generally take between 2
to 3 weeks. You will be contacted if an issue arises in the processing of your application.

For applications requiring a third-party exam, you will receive testing information at the end of your online
application process (this is also available in your CDX inbox). The fee for your first exam attempt was
included in your application fee, a $70 fee is required for each additional exam attempt needed. Once you
passed the third-party exam you will receive an approval package by mail when your application is
approved. Please note that processing times may vary, but generally take 2 to 3 weeks. You will be
contacted if an issue arises in the processing of your application.

Question (23002-37012)

How can I find the status of my Training Provider application?

Answer

Training provider applications are reviewed by staff in your EPA regional office. Should you have
questions regarding your application here's a link with contact information for each region.

Question (23002-37013)

How do I verify that the fees I am being asked to pay are correct?

Answer

Click the link that applies to your application type:

Firm

Individual
Training Provider

If you still have questions, call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD.

Question (23002-37014)

I clicked the "Submit" button to submit my application and nothing happened, or I received an error
message. What do I do?

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Answer

Please contact the CDX Help Desk at 1 -888-890-1995 (870-494-5500 for international callers) or
IheIpdesk@epacdx.net for assistance.

Question (23002-37015)

How do I cancel a payment charged to my credit/debit card?

Answer

To request a refund for application fees, or for any concerns regarding online payments, contact the CDX
Help Desk at 1-888-890-1995 (870-494-5500 for international callers) or helpdesk@epacdx.net for
assistance.

Question (23002-37016)

How do I know that my transaction will be secure?

Answer

Online transactions are managed by the U.S. Department of Treasury. For more information regarding
the security controls in place to protect your transactions, please visit

https://pav.gov/agencv/oveirview/lhtinill.

Question (23002-37017)

What is an ACH debit transaction?

Answer

An ACH debit transaction is a debit directly from a personal savings, personal checking, or business
checking account. In some instances, business checking accounts may not permit ACH transactions. In
order to conduct an ACH transaction, you will need to provide your bank's routing number and your
account information. In most instances, you can enter paper checks as ACH transactions by providing the
Check Number on the application. If you have additional questions, please call 1-800-424-LEAD.

Question (23002-37018)

I am an accredited Training Provider. How do I submit my course schedule and student information?

Answer

Please access the Training Provider Dashboard on the MvCDX homepage to submit your course
schedule and student information. If you have an existing accreditation number but do not have an
account to access the Dashboard, contact the CDX Help Desk at 1-888-890-1995 (870-494-5500 for
international callers) or Ih e I pd es k@epacdx. n et.

Question (23002-37019)

What do I do if I need to mail a paper Electronic Signature Agreement (ESA) due to Identity Proofing
failure or opting out of the online process?

Answer

A paper Electronic Signature Agreement will be sent to the email address provided on your application. A
copy of this form can also be found in your CDX Inbox. Print this form, sign it, and mail it to:

EPA Lead Data Processing Center c/o CGI Federal

12601 Fair Lakes Circle

Fairfax, VA 22033

EPA Lead Data Processing Center

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Staffed by CGI Federal

Question (23002-37020)

Do I need a new CDX account if I am associated with more than one organization?

Answer

No. You can submit on behalf of multiple organizations through the same account by selecting or adding
the appropriate organization within the application. You must submit a separate application for each
organization.

Question (23002-37021)

How do I submit an abatement notification?

Answer

Submit abatement notifications through CDX using the "Abatement Notifications" link on the MyCDX
homepage. If you do not have a CDX account with access to this link, contact the CDX Helpdesk at 1-
888-890-1995 (870-494-5500 for international callers) or IheIpdesk@epacdx.net for assistance.

Question (23002-37022)

What if I never receive a confirmation email after I complete and submit my application?

Answer

Check your junk or spam email folder for a message from lead.paiint@epa.gov. Any important documents
that may have been transmitted in the email, such as your exam letter if you are required to take an
exam, can also be found in your CDX Inbox.

We recommend that you adjust your email settings to receive emails from the EPA sender
lead.paint@epa.gov to prevent future transmissions from being blocked.

Lead-Based Paint Program Fees

Question (23002-33298)

Where can I get more information on the Fee Rule for Lead Abatement and Lead Renovation, Repair and
Painting (RRP) Programs?

Answer

You can find fee rule information online here- https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-renovation-repair-and-
painting-progi " ;s#fee. You can also contact the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-
LEAD.

Question (23002-33296)

What is EPA's rule to: (1) lower fees for the Lead-Based Paint Activities Programs (for abatement, i.e.,
total removal) and (2) set fees for the 2008 Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Program?

Answer

In March 2009, EPA issued a rule to address fees for its lead-based paint programs. The rule addresses
two areas: first, it modifies and lowers the existing fees for EPA's Lead-based Paint Activities regulations

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that govern lead abatement, inspection and risk assessment activities; second, it establishes fees to
cover costs of administering the 2008 Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) rule.

Question (23002-33302)

Is anyone exempt from paying fees under the Fee Rule for Abatement and RRP Programs ?

Answer

Yes. TSCA section 402(a)(3) exempts state, local government, and non-profit training programs from
federal accreditation fees. However, it does not provide an exemption for the certification fees of firms or
individuals.

Question (23002-33299)

Why did some of the fees for lead-based paint activities drop significantly while others changed only
slightly?

Answer

The fees in the rule reflect the cost to the Agency of accreditations and certifications. EPA developed the
original fees before it had experience administering a lead-based paint accreditation and certification
program. That is no longer the case. The Agency used almost a decade of information to develop the
revised fees.

Question (23002-33306)

Who is affected by the Fee Rule for Lead Abatement and Renovation, Repair and Painting Programs?

Answer

This rule establishes fees that will be charged for training programs seeking accreditation, for firms
engaged in renovations seeking certification, and for individuals (for example, risk assessors) or firms
engaged in lead-based paint activities that govern lead abatement, inspection and risk assessment
activities.

Question (23002-33304)

Why does EPA charge fees for accreditations and certifications?

Answer

As specified in the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), EPA must establish and implement a fee
schedule to recover to the U.S. Treasury the Agency's costs of administering and enforcing the standards
and requirements applicable to lead-based paint training programs and contractors.

Question (23002-33300)

Why have the fees for Lead-based Paint Activities program decreased since they were first implemented
in 1999?

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Answer

Since 1999, EPA has made substantial changes in the way it administers its accreditation and
certification program. The transition to the automated federal Lead-based Paint Program (FLPP)
database and the associated centralized data processing has resulted in lower overall costs of the
program.

Question (23002-33305)

Does the Fee Rule for Abatement and RRP Programs apply nationwide?

Answer

The rule applies only in those states and tribes without their own authorized lead programs. Currently,
EPA implements the Lead-based Paint Activities program in 11 states and the Lead Renovation, Repair,
and Painting Rule in 36 states.

Question (23002-33303)

What costs does EPA incur that must be recovered by the fees under the Fee Rule for Abatement and
RRP Programs?

Answer

The fees recover EPA's costs for processing applications, enforcing program requirements, and
administrative activities such as maintenance of the central database and administering certification
examinations.

EPA/HUD Real Estate Notification & Disclosure Rule

Question (23002-33215)

Am I required to give the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home" to existing
tenants?

Answer

No, but when tenants renew their leases, you must give them the pamphlet and any available reports. In
other words, you must give them the same information that you are required to provide new tenants.

Question (23002-33207)

What type of housing is affected by the EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule? .

Answer

The EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule applies to all housing defined as "target
housing", which includes most private housing, public housing, housing receiving federal assistance, and
federally owned housing built before 1978.

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Question (23002-33206)

What is the purpose of the EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule and who is
affected?

Answer

To protect the public from exposure to lead from paint, dust, and soil, Congress passed the Residential
Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992, also known as Title X. Section 1018 of this law directed
HUD and EPA to require disclosure of information on lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards
before the sale or lease of most housing built before 1978. The rule would ensure that purchasers and
renters of housing built before 1978 receive the information necessary to protect themselves and their
families from lead-based paint hazards.

Question (23002-33229)

Are mortgage lenders liable under these rules if the seller or lessor fails to disclose?

Answer

Under the disclosure regulation, the rule does not identify mortgage lenders as liable parties. This rule
does not affect other state and federal provisions regarding the obligations and responsibilities of lenders.

Question (23002-33341)

What is target housing?

Answer

Target housing is defined in the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) as any housing constructed before
1978, except housing for the elderly or persons with disabilities or any 0-bedroom dwelling. However,
target housing does include pre-1978 housing for the elderly or persons with disabilities, if any child under
age six resides or is expected to reside in such housing.

Question (23002-33219)

What if I know there is lead-based paint in my home?

Answer

If you know there is lead-based paint in your home, you are required to disclose this information to the
buyer or renter along with any other available reports on lead.

Question (23002-33226)

Where can I find a qualified professional to conduct an inspection?

Answer

State agencies can provide helpful information for locating qualified professionals in your area. The EPA
pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home", at: https://www.epa.gov/lead/protect-your-
family-lead-your-home provides the phone numbers of these state agencies. It is important to verify the
qualifications of individuals and firms before hiring them.

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Question (23002-33230)

What if a seller or lessor fails to comply with these regulations?

Answer

A seller, lessor, or agent who fails to give the proper information can be sued for triple the amount of
damages. In addition, they may be subject to civil and criminal penalties. Ensuring that disclosure
information is given to home buyers and tenants helps all parties avoid misunderstandings before, during,
and after sales and leasing agreements.

Question (23002-33208)

What type of housing is not affected by the EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule?

Answer

Housing that is not affected by the EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule includes:
0-bedroom dwellings, such as lofts, efficiencies, and studios; Leases of dwelling units of 100 days or
fewer, such as vacation homes or short-term rentals; Designated housing for the elderly and the
handicapped unless children reside or are expected to reside there; and Rental housing that has been
inspected by a certified inspector and is found to be free of lead-based paint.

Question (23002-33218)

Is the seller required to remove any lead-based paint that is discovered during an inspection?

Answer

No. Nothing in the rule requires a building owner to remove lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards
discovered during an inspection or risk assessment. In addition, the rule does not prevent the two parties
from negotiating hazard reduction activities as a contingency of the purchase and sale of the housing.

Question (23002-33214)

What if I'm renting target housing?

Answer

Property owners who rent out target housing must: Disclose all known lead-based paint and lead-based
paint hazards in the home and any available reports on lead in the housing; Give renters the EPA
pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home"; Include certain warning language in the lease
as well as signed statements from all parties verifying that all requirements were completed; and Retain
signed acknowledgments for three years, as proof of compliance.

Question (23002-33221)

As an agent what are my responsibilities?

Answer

Agents must ensure that: Sellers and landlords are made aware of their obligations under this rule;
Sellers and landlords disclose the proper information to lessors, buyers, and tenants; Sellers give

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purchasers the opportunity to conduct an inspection; and Lease and sales contracts contain the
appropriate notification and disclosure language and proper signatures.

Question (23002-33225)

If I am renting, do I have the same opportunity to test for lead?

Answer

Under the law, the 10-day inspection period is limited to sales transactions, but nothing prevents the
renter from negotiating with the lessor to allow time for an inspection before rental.

Question (23002-33217)

Must I check my house for lead prior to sale?

Answer

No. The rule does not require that a seller conduct or finance an inspection or risk assessment. The
seller, however, is required to provide the buyer a 10-day period to test for lead-based paint or lead-
based paint hazards.

Question (23002-33222)

What is the responsibility of an agent if the seller or landlord fails to comply with the EPA and HUD Real
Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule?

Answer

The agent is responsible for informing the seller or lessor of his or her obligations under the EPA and
HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule. In addition, the agent is responsible if the seller or
lessor fails to comply. However, an agent is not responsible for information withheld by the seller or
lessor.

Question (23002-33213)

As a seller and lessor, what if I'm selling target housing?

Answer

Property owners who sell target housing must:

•	Disclose all known lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards in the housing and any
available reports on lead in the housing;

•	Give buyers the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home";

•	Include certain warning language in the contract as well as signed statements from all parties
verifying that all requirements were completed;

•	Retain signed acknowledgments for three years, as proof of compliance; and

•	Give buyers a 10-day opportunity to test the housing for lead.

Question (23002-33220)

What if the lessor knows that there is no lead-based paint in my rental housing?

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Answer

If your rental housing has been found to be free of lead-based paint by a certified inspector, the Real
Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule does not apply.

Question (23002-33224)

Can the inspection/risk assessment period for testing a house for lead be waived?

Answer

Yes. The inspection or risk assessment period can be lengthened, shortened, or waived by mutual written
consent between the purchaser and the seller.

Question (23002-33223)

As a purchaser, am I required to conduct and finance an inspection?

Answer

No. The EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule simply ensures that you have the
opportunity to test for lead before purchase.

Question (23002-33228)

Does this rule increase my liability for future lead poisoning on my property?

Answer

In some cases, disclosure may actually reduce the owner's liability since occupants may be able to
prevent exposure from the beginning. Under the Real Estate Notification and Disclosure rule, however,
sellers, landlords, or agents who fail to provide the required notices and information are liable for triple the
amount of damages. 42 U.S.C. § 4852d(b)(3).

Question (23002-33212)

Is my home unsafe if it contains lead-based paint?

Answer

Approximately three-quarters of the nation's housing built before 1978 contains some lead-based paint.
This paint, if properly managed and maintained, poses little risk. If allowed to deteriorate, lead from paint
can threaten the health of occupants, especially children under six years old. If families and building
owners are aware of the presence of lead-based paint and the proper actions to take, most lead-based
paint hazards can be managed. The EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead iim Your Home"
provides important information for families and home owners to help them identify when lead-based paint
is likely to be a hazard and how to get their home checked.

Question (23002-33209)

How does the EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule apply to housing common
areas such as stairwells, lobbies, and laundry rooms?

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Answer

Common areas are those areas in multifamily housing structures that are used or are accessible to all
occupants. The EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule requires that sellers and
lessors disclose available lead information about common areas so that families can be informed about
preventive actions.

Question (23002-33227)

Must lead-based paint inspectors be certified?

Answer

Yes, lead-based paint inspectors must be certified by EPA or the EPA authorized program in the
jurisdiction(s) in which they provide lead-based paint inspection services

Question (23002-33216)

What if the buyers/renters don't speak English?

Answer

In cases where the buyer or renter signed a purchase or lease agreement in a language other than
English, the rule requires that the disclosure language be provided in the alternate language. "Protect
Your Family From Lead In Your Home" (PDF) in English, is at: https://www.epa.gov/lead/protect-vour-
fainiiillv-llead-vouir-hoinie "Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home" is also available in Spanish at:
http://www.epa.gov/lead/proteia-su-familia-contra-el-plomo-en-el-hogar. Vietnamese at:
http://www.epa.gov/lead/protect-vour-familv-lead-vour-home-vietnamese. Russian at:
http://www.epa.gov/lead/protect-vour-familv-iead-vour-home-russian. Arabic at:
http://www.epa.gov/lead/protect-vour-familv-iead-vour-home-arabic-language-version. and Somali at:
http://www.epa.gov/lead/ka-badbaa-di-qovska-halista-leedhka.

Question (23002-33210)

Why doesn't the EPA and HUD Real Estate Notification and Disclosure Rule affect housing built after
1978?

Answer

Congress did not extend the law to housing built after 1978 because the Consumer Product Safety
Commission banned the use of lead-based paint in housing in 1978.

Lead in Products

Question (23002-33252)

Is there lead in lipstick?

Answer

In response to a number of inquiries regarding reports of lead contamination in lipstick, the U.S. Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) developed and validated a method for analyzing lead content in currently
marketed lipstick. Learn more at:

http://www.fda.aov/Cosmetics/Productslnaredients/Products/ucm137224.htm

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Lead in Drinking Water

Question (23002-32407)

Why do water systems add phosphate to drinking water? What are the health effects of drinking water
containing phosphates?

Answer

Public water systems (PWSs) commonly add phosphates to drinking water to prevent the release of
metals in drinking water. Orthophosphate is most commonly used for lead and copper control.
Polyphosphates sequester iron and manganese to prevent discolored water but are not effective to
control lead and copper. Blended phosphates are a mix of orthophosphate and polyphosphate, which can
potentially provide both sequestration and corrosion control.

Orthophosphate is available as phosphoric acid, in salt form (potassium or sodium), and as zinc
orthophosphate. Orthophosphate reacts with lead and copper to form compounds that have a strong
tendency to stay in solid form and not dissolve into water. The extent to which orthophosphate can control
lead and copper release depends on the orthophosphate concentration, pH, DIC, and the characteristics
of the existing corrosion scale (e.g., whether it contains other metals such as iron or aluminum).

Question (23002-32378)

Does boiling water remove lead?

Answer

No, boiling water does not remove lead.

Question (23002-32382)

Can I get my water tested for lead?

Answer

Homes may have internal plumbing materials containing lead. Since you cannot see, taste, or smell lead
dissolved in water, testing is the only sure way of telling whether there are harmful quantities of lead in
your drinking water. A list of certified laboratories are available from your state or local drinking water
authority or on EPA's website at: https://www.epa.gov/dwlabcert/contact-information-certification-
programs-and-certified-laboratories-drinking-water. Also, contact your water supplier as they may have
useful information, including whether the service connector used in your home or area is made of lead.

You can learn more on our website: https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-
information-about-lead-diriinkiing-wateir. You can also view and print a fact sheet on testing your home's

drinking water.

Question (23002-32377)

Is exposure to lead contaminated drinking water from absorption through skin a health threat?

Answer

Human skin does not absorb lead in water. For more information visit our website:
https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-drinking-water

Question (23002-32381)

Will my filter remove lead?

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Answer

Some filters can remove lead from drinking water. If you use a filter, be sure to get one that is tested and
certified by an independent third party. Be sure to read the manufacturer's directions to learn how to
properly install and use your filter and when to replace it. Using a filter after it has expired can make it
less effective at removing lead. Do not run hot water through the filter. For more information on how to
identify filters certified to reduce lead, please see our factsheet here: https://www.epa.gov/water-
research/consumer-tool-identifving-pou-drinking-water-filters-certified-reduce-lead.

Question (23002-32376)

How can lead get into my drinking water?

Answer

Lead can enter drinking water when plumbing materials that contain lead corrode, especially where the
water has high acidity or low mineral content that corrodes pipes and fixtures. The most common sources
of lead in drinking water are lead pipes, faucets, and fixtures. In homes with lead pipes that connect the
home to the water main, also known as lead services lines, these pipes are typically the most significant
source of lead in the water. Lead pipes are more likely to be found in older cities and homes built before
1986. Among homes without lead service lines, the most common problem is with brass or chrome-
plated brass faucets and plumbing with lead solder.

Information about actions you can take to reduce lead in drinking water is available at
https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-drinking-

wate ir#ired ucehome.

Question (23002-32393)

How does the Safe Drinking Water Act limit lead in pipes, plumbing fittings, fixtures, faucets, solder and
flux?

Answer

Section 1417 of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) establishes the definition for "lead free" as a
weighted average of 0.25% lead calculated across the wetted surfaces of a pipe, pipe fitting, plumbing
fitting, and fixture and 0.2% lead for solder and flux. The Act also provides a methodology for calculating
the weighted average of wetted surfaces.

The Act prohibits the "use of any pipe, any pipe or plumbing fitting or fixture, any solder, or any flux, after
June 1986, in the installation or repair of (i) any public water system; or (ii) any plumbing in a residential
or non-residential facility providing water for human consumption, that is not lead free."

Additionally, there is a prohibition on introducing a pipe, any pipe or plumbing fitting or fixture, any solder,
or any flux that is not lead free into commerce, unless the use is for manufacturing or industrial purposes.
The SDWA includes several exemptions from the lead-free requirements, specifically for plumbing
devices that are used exclusively for non-potable services, as well as a list of specific products: toilets,
bidets, urinals, fill valves, flushometer valves, fire hydrants, tub fillers, shower valves, service saddles, or
water distribution main gate valves that are 2 inches in diameter or larger. For more information, please
visit our website at https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/use-lead-free-pipes-fittings-fixtures-solder-and-flux-
drinking-wateir.

Question (23002-32388)

How can I tell if my water contains lead?

Answer

To determine if your water has lead, have your water tested. Please see the answer to Question (23002-

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32382) for more information on testing. Since you cannot see, taste, or smell lead dissolved in water,
testing is the only sure way of telling whether lead is present in your drinking water. Consider testing
particularly if your home has lead pipes (lead is a dull gray metal that is soft enough to be easily
scratched with a house key). For more information on how to identify plumbing materials, EPA has
developed the Protect-Your-Tap: A Quick Check for Lead online step-by-step guide to help people
identify lead pipes in their homes: https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/protect-vour-tap-
quick-check-lead.

Question (23002-32403)

What do you mean when you say the action level has been exceeded for a drinking water system?

Answer

The lead action level is a measure of the effectiveness of the corrosion control treatment in water
systems. The action level is not a standard for establishing a safe level of lead in a home. To check if
corrosion control is working, EPA requires water systems to test for lead at the tap in certain homes,
including those with lead service lines. Systems compare sample results from homes to EPA's action
level of 0.015 mg/L (15 ppb). If 10 percent of the samples from these homes have water concentrations
that are greater than the action level, then the system must perform actions such as public education and
lead service line replacement.

Question (23002-32395)

Can one still sell lead solder under the Lead Ban?

Answer

Section 1417(a)(3) of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) prohibits the sale of solder and flux that is not
lead-free unless the solder or flux bears a prominent label stating that it is illegal to use the solder or flux
in the installation or repair of any plumbing providing water for human consumption.

Question (23002-32402)

Is there a guidance document that outlines sampling techniques for testing lead in public drinking water
systems?

Answer

Sampling techniques for testing lead in drinking water are outlined in EPA's approved methods for
compliance monitoring of lead in drinking water. In addition, EPA has several guidance documents
associated with Lead and Copper Rule water quality and tap monitoring on our website here:
https://www.epa.goV/dwreginfo/lead-and-copper-rule-implementation-tools#WQ. This guidance does not
contain the sampling protocol revisions that were introduced in the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions nor
any potential revisions that may occur under the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements.

Question (23002-32375)

Should I be worried about lead contamination from the plumbing in a newly built home?

Answer

Plumbing in newer homes, especially those constructed after their state adopted the 1986 SDWA lead
ban, should have plumbing materials that contain lower levels of lead than homes constructed prior to
that date, must ,EPA has provided a table with dates by which each state adopted the 1986 SDWA lead
ban as an appendix to our Guidance for Developing and Maintaining a Service Line Inventory, which can
be downloaded here: https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/revised-lead-and-copper-
rule.

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Question (23002-32387)

Is there anything else I can do beyond flushing my tap or buying bottled water?

Answer

Yes, find "Important Steps You Can Take to Reduce Lead in Drinking Water" if you are concerned about
lead in their drinking water. The list is not intended to be exhaustive or to imply that all actions equally
reduce lead from drinking water. EPA recommends you also contact your local water system and health
department: https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-

d irii irt kii ng-wate ir#ired ucehome.

Question (23002-32401)

Are non-transient, non-community water systems (NTNCWSs) required to monitor for lead and copper?

Answer

All community water systems (CWSs) and NTNCWSs must collect lead and copper tap samples. The
frequency of the monitoring and number of samples to be collected and analyzed is based primarily on
the number of people served and tap water monitoring results. For an outline of monitoring requirements
(e.g., number of samples) consult the Revised Lead and Copper Monitoring and Reporting Guidance for
Public Water Systems, located here: https://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/lead-and-copper-rule-
i inn pie me iritatii o n-to o ls#WQ.

Question (23002-32386)

What is the water system doing about lead in drinking water?

Answer

In accordance with the Lead and Copper Rule, your water system is required to test water collected from
a number of households in your community for levels of lead and copper. Depending upon the number of
people served by your water system and the levels of lead and copper found in sampling, your water
system may also be required to install corrosion control treatment. Corrosion control treatment means
systems must make drinking water less corrosive to the materials it comes into contact with on its way to
consumer's taps. Public education for lead is also triggered when tap samples exceed the lead action
level of 15 |jg/l. If corrosion control treatment is not effective at reducing lead levels, your water system
may be required to replace lead service lines, if present, that connect some households in your
community to water mains.

Question (23002-32408)

I am looking at a water report for my public water system. Under the contaminant heading for lead and
copper there is a column heading titled 90th percentile. What does this column mean?

Answer

The Consumer Confidence Report must include the 90th percentile concentration of the most recent
round(s) of sampling for lead and copper. If the "90th percentile" level is above the action level, this is
called an action level exceedance. The action level is the concentration of a contaminant which, if
exceeded, triggers treatment actions or other requirements which a water system must follow. The lead
action level is exceeded if the concentration of lead in more than 10 percent of tap water samples is
greater than 0.015 mg/L (i.e., ifthe"90th percentile" lead level is greater than 0.015 mg/L). The copper
action level is exceeded if the concentration of copper in more than 10 percent of tap water samples is
greater than 1.3 mg/L (i.e., if the"90th percentile" copper level is greater than 1.3 mg/L) (40 CFR Section
141.80(c)).

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Question (23002-32406)

What home treatment devices are used to control lead in drinking water?

Answer

EPA has developed a consumer tool to identify point-of-use drinking water filters certified to reduce lead
at: https://www.epa.gov/water-research/consumer-tool-identifving-pou-drinking-water-filters-certified-
reduce-lead.

Question (23002-32390)

Is my water system required to provide me with the results when they test for lead?

Answer

Yes. Water systems must provide a water quality report (often referred to as consumer confidence report)
every year to their consumers. This report must include the 90th percentile concentration of the most
recent round(s) of sampling performed by the water system for lead and copper among households
sampled by the system. The report must also include the number of sampling program, then sites
exceeding the action level, the range of tap sampling results, and information on how to access the
results of all tap sampling. If your home is tested as part of your system's lead tap water monitoring
program, then the system is required to provide you with a notice of the results. If the samples do not
exceed 0.015 mg/L of lead, the system must provide the results within 30 days of receiving them from the
laboratory. If the samples exceed 0.015 mg/L of lead, the system must provide the results within 3 days.

Question (23002-32409)

Where can I get more information on lead in drinking water?

Answer

For more information, visit https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-
lead-drinking-water or contact us online at https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-ancl-drinking-
water/forms/online-form-epas-office-ground-water-ancl-drinking-water. You may also contact by email at
safewater@e pa .gov. Your state or local public health department will also be able to provide information
about lead.

Question (23002-32383)

My neighbors got their water tested and found lead. Is my water safe?

Answer

Lead usually gets into drinking water through contact with plumbing materials such as lead pipes or lead
solder, or faucets, valves, and fixtures made of brass (brass contains some lead). Since each home has
different plumbing pipes and materials, test results are likely to be different for each home.

Question (23002-32385)

The drinking water I receive from a public water system has an unfamiliar odor and a slight discoloration. I
am concerned that this is an indication of lead in my drinking water. What can I do to determine if lead is
in my drinking water?

Answer

You cannot see, taste, or smell lead in drinking water. To determine if lead is in your drinking water,
contact your local water supplier and ask for a copy of your Consumer Confidence Report. This report
lists the levels of contaminants that have been detected in the water, including lead, and whether the
system meets state and EPA drinking water standards. The most recent Consumer Confidence Report
can be obtained from your drinking water utility, by visiting their website or contacting them for a copy.

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Some public water systems upload their Consumer Confidence Report to EPA's website at:
Ihittp://www.epa.gov/ccir. Alternatively, you can contact a state certified laboratory to have your drinking
water tested for lead. Contact your state certification officer to get a list of certified laboratories in your
state or to find state certification visit the EPA's website at https:://www.epa.gov/dwllabceirt.

Question (23002-32380)

Why can't I use hot water from the tap for drinking, cooking, or making baby formula?

Answer

Hot water dissolves lead more quickly than cold water and is therefore more likely to contain greater
amounts of lead. Never use water from the hot water tap for drinking, cooking, or making baby formula.

Question (23002-32405)

A water system is on reduced monitoring for lead and copper. If this system adds new or revised
treatment, must the system resume lead and copper sampling as a new system?

Answer

The state may require a system to resume sampling and collect the number of samples specified for
standard monitoring or take other appropriate steps such as increased water quality parameter monitoring
or re-evaluation of its corrosion control treatment (40 CFR 141.86(d)(4)(vii)).

Question (23002-32404)

What are the public education requirements for non-transient, non-community water systems (NTNCWSs)
that have exceeded the lead action level?

Answer

When there is a lead action level exceedance, non-transient, non-community water systems (NTNCWSs)
must post informational posters on lead in drinking water in public places or common areas in buildings
they serve. NTNCWSs must also distribute informational pamphlets and/or brochures on lead in drinking
water to each person they serve. These materials must include information on the health effects of lead,
sources of lead, steps consumers can take to reduce exposure to lead in drinking water, why there are
elevated levels of lead in the system's drinking water and what the system is doing to reduce lead levels,
who to contact for more information, and information on lead service lines if the system has any.
NTNCWSs must carry out these public education requirements within 60 days after the end of the tap
sampling period in which the exceedance occurred. NTNCWSs that exceed the action level must conduct
public education in accordance with the requirements in 40 CFR 141.85.

Lead at Superfund Sites

Question (23002-33313)

What is the potential danger posed by historical lead smelting sites?

Answer

The potential danger posed by historical lead smelting sites varies by site and depends upon whether a
completed exposure pathway to the contaminant exists. For example, if site surfaces are redeveloped
and, as a result, covered, there is no direct contact. Therefore, without such exposure, there is no current
human health risk. If direct contact is occurring, the potential depends upon a number of factors such as
the frequency of exposure and who is exposed, e.g., child, pregnant woman, etc. For more information on
lead at super fund sites visit httpsi//www.epa.aov/superfund/lead-superfund-sites.

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Question (23002-33311)

What can I do to protect my family from lead contamination that was found in my neighborhood?

Answer

If environmental exposure to lead is suspected, you should contact your local or state environmental
office to determine if there are known or suspected sources of lead in the area. If there are known or
suspected sources of lead, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at:
https://www.cdc.aov/nceh/lead/tips.htm offers the following recommendations for reducing exposure to
lead.

• Talk to your state or local health department about testing paint and dust from your home for

lead.

• Make sure your child does not have access to peeling paint or chewable surfaces painted with
lead-based paint.

• Pregnant women and children should not be present in housing built before 1978 that is
undergoing renovation. They should not participate in activities that disturb old paint or in
cleaning up paint debris after work is completed.

• Create barriers between living/play areas and lead sources. Until environmental cleanup is
completed, parents should clean and isolate all sources of lead. They should close and lock
doors to keep children away from chipping or peeling paint on walls. Temporary barriers, such as
contact paper or duct tape, can be applied to cover holes in walls or to block children's access to
other sources of lead.

• Regularly wash children's hands and toys. Hands and toys can become contaminated from
household dust or exterior soil. Both are known lead sources.

• Regularly wet-mop floors and wet-wipe window components. Because household dust is a major
source of lead, parents should wet-mop floors and wet-wipe horizontal surfaces every 2-3
weeks. Windowsills and wells can also contain high levels of leaded dust. They should be kept
clean. If feasible, windows should be shut to prevent abrasion of painted surfaces or opened
from the top sash.

• Prevent children from playing in bare soil; if possible, provide them with sandboxes. Parents
should plant grass on areas of bare soil or cover the soil with grass seed, mulch, or wood chips,
if possible. Until the bare soil is covered, parents should move play areas away from bare soil
and away from the sides of the house. EPA also recommends that children eat nutritious foods
as specified in that National Dietary Guidelines because children with good diets absorb less
lead.

Question (23002-33312)

How do I contact EPA about lead concerns in my area?

Answer

You may call the National Lead Information Center at 1 -800-424-LEAD(5323) or visit our "Contact Us
about Lead" page at https://www.epa.gov/lead/forms/contact-us-about-lead. You can also report
violations online at https://www.epa.gov/lead/report-lead-based-paint-complaints-tips-and-violations.

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