Lead Paint is often found on trim, baseboards, window frames, and doors in homes constructed prior to 1978. Photo credit: Photogen.comThe EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule
(Just Another Reason To Trust Highlight Homes)
On April 22, 2010, The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began enforcing a requirement that all contractors, renovators, painters, restoration companies, roofers, plumbers, property managers, carpenters, electricians, and installers who work on homes constructed prior to 1978 become lead-containment certified under their Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule. Due to the large number of individuals and companies who were out of compliance across the nation at the time of the ruling, the date for certification was extended to December 31, 2010. Today, there are still a large number of professionals out there who do not meet the requirements set forth by the EPA to safely contain and remove lead paint particles when working on a home built before 1978. Highlight Homes is pleased to announce that we have been designated a Lead-Safe Certified Firm by the EPA since before their RRP ruling went into full effect. This means we have completed the training and are fully aware of the guidelines set forth by the EPA regarding the proper testing, handling and disposal of suspected lead particles in any home we are renovating or repairing. We are completely committed to the safety of our clients and their families, as well as the pursuit of ongoing education to make certain we are continually providing the very best levels of expertise to the people who select us to construct or improve their home.
Why is this important? While a homeowner will not be found liable for using an uncertified contractor (UNLESS the work is being completed on a rental property), the contractor they hire will be in violation of the law and may be forced to pay hefty fines. Needless to say, a homeowner could very well find themselves smack dab in the middle of a home improvement or maintenance project without a contractor. More importantly, improper containment and disposal of lead particles could prove hazardous to you and your family. Lead is a highly toxic metal that is particularly dangerous to children. For whatever reason their growing bodies absorb more of the metal, and their brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to its damaging effects. A percentage of kids linked to lead exposure – even in low levels – have shown signs of reduced IQs, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, reduced attention span, and impeded physical development. Lead poisoning in adults can increase blood pressure, cause irritability, lead to poor muscle coordination, and damage the kidneys, nerves and brain over time. Paint that is chipped or peeling, or is converted to dust particles during a home renovation or repair can be ingested or breathed in by every member of your family. Is that a risk you’re willing to take?
Although the use of lead-based paint in housing was banned in 1978 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, it is believed that nearly three-quarters of the homes built before 1978 contain some lead-based paint. It may be found on any surface, but is most commonly discovered on exterior-painted surfaces, interior woodwork, doors, and windows. If you live in a home constructed prior to 1978, you owe it to yourself and your family to work with only Lead-Safe Certified Firms. A list of these companies can be found on the EPA’s website – Highlight Homes is proudly listed there under our parent company, TyCam Development. We welcome the opportunity to assist you with any necessary repairs or planned renovations to your home, and invite you to contact us to discuss your needs and wishes. Our talented design/build team can be reached by calling 678-873-9234, by e-mail info@highlighthomesga.com, or by filling out our convenient online contact form – a member of our staff will be in touch with you shortly. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
