Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP)

Why Hire a RRP Contractor?

Lead RRP (Renovation, Repair, and Painting) refers to regulations established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States to address lead-based paint hazards. The Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule requires that firms performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified by the EPA (or an EPA-authorized state). Workers must be trained in lead-safe work practices, and specific guidelines must be followed to minimize lead contamination. 

1. Lead & Health and Safety Concerns

Lead is highly toxic, particularly to young children and pregnant women. Exposure to lead-based paint during renovation projects can cause serious health issues, including:

• Developmental delays and learning difficulties in children
• Behavioral issues
• Damage to the brain and nervous system
• Kidney problems and high blood pressure in adults

Hiring an RRP-certified contractor ensures that the workers use lead-safe practices, significantly reducing the risk of lead dust or chips contaminating the environment.

2. Regulatory Compliance

The EPA's Lead RRP rule requires that any contractor working on pre-1978 buildings (homes, schools, and daycare centers) must be certified to handle lead-based paint hazards. If you're hiring a contractor to work on such a property and they aren't certified, you could be liable for non-compliance with federal regulations, which can result in hefty fines. Certified contractors are trained to meet the EPA's strict guidelines.

3. Proper Handling and Cleanup

An RRP-certified contractor has been trained in lead-safe work practices. This includes:

Containing the work area to prevent the spread of lead dust

Using appropriate protective equipment

Properly disposing of lead-contaminated materials

Thoroughly cleaning the site to ensure no lead dust remains after the job is complete

Non-certified contractors might not be equipped to handle these steps, increasing the risk of contamination.

4. Protection of Property Value

Improper handling of lead-based paint can leave behind lead contamination, which can affect the safety and market value of the property. By hiring an RRP contractor, you're taking steps to protect your investment and ensure that your property remains safe for future occupants, especially if the property is subject to a sale or rental in the future.

5. Peace of Mind

Hiring an RRP-certified contractor gives you peace of mind knowing that your renovation or repair project will be done safely and in compliance with health and safety standards. You won’t have to worry about exposing your family, employees, or tenants to hazardous lead.

6. Legal Liability

Failing to hire a certified contractor could expose you to legal liabilities. If lead exposure occurs during the renovation and someone becomes sick, you could face lawsuits or insurance claims. By hiring an RRP-certified contractor, you reduce this risk.

In summary, hiring an RRP-certified contractor ensures compliance with regulations, protects health, ensures proper cleanup, and provides peace of mind. It’s an essential step for any renovation or repair in older buildings.

GOT ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS?

Let us handle the problem properly and efficiently.