Lead Based Paint Regs Change

Update (7.6.2010)-As reported in the Ohio Association of Realtors online magazine, "The EPA has decided to delay until Oct 1, enforcement of its new "Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule" in order to provide building professionals more time to receive training and certification in the removal of lead-based paint."

If you own a home or rental that was built prior to 1978, there are some new regulations that were set in place late last month. If you plan to renovate or repair and the work involves more than six square feet of painted surface per room (interior) or 20 square feet for exterior work, the owners and tenants (if it's a rental) must receive information on lead-based paint hazards prior to the renovation. Contractors performing the renovation must also be certified (meaning they've taken an eight hour course from an EPA accredited trainer). To find out more, visit http://www.epa.gov/lead/