Kitchen Remodeling and Lead Paint
Beginning April 22, 2010 the EPA will begin to enforce lead paint abatement regulations for residences and child care facilities.
This will have a significant impact on all contractors working on homes built before 1978.
The regulations are intended to prevent exposure to lead that was used in paints prior to 1978. When renovations are made to homes with lead paint the lead becomes airborne in the form of dust and is especially harmful for children under the age of 6.
Contractors must become certified lead paint abatement firms and have certified personnel on projects that qualify.
Homeowners must be provided EPA information regarding lead paint and contractors must follow EPA guidelines for safe removal and disposal of lead materials.
All of this will of course add to the cost of remodeling including kitchen remodels.
The compliance costs will be passed on from the contractor to the consumer adding to the overall cost of the remodeling project.
The fines for non-compliance are severe so it is unlikely that reputable firms will risk being cited.
To learn more visit www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/resourcecenter.htm
