Remodeling Gets Tough With New Lead Based Paint Restrictions

18 years after a law was passed to toughen up on contamination of lead based paint during remodeling, the actual new conditions and requirements will come to pass on April 22nd, 2010.  Basically, "a new federal law will require contractors to contain and clean lead dust more carefully during renovation, repair and painting work. Their workers will have to attend training, and the firms will have to earn certification to do the work." This is meant to lessen contamination from lead dust, which can cause developmental delays and disabilities, as well as seizures and potential death. Lead based paint pamphlets are required by law to be given to any home purchasers who buy a house older than 1978, when lead based paint was outlawed. Sellers also have to disclose if they know of any lead based paint in the home or have had is tested. As a Realtor, I tell my clients if the house is older than 1980 or so, there probably is lead based paint somewhere. As a common practice, don't let children or pets chew on painted wood, or get into chips that may fall on the floor or exterior of the house.Containment during scraping, remodeling, and any time wooden or wall surfaces are cut is a must.
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