The EPA’s new regulation entitled, “Renovation, Repair and Painting” has caused some ambiguity for homeowners, Colorado Springs Realtors, remodelers, contractors and property managers.

Any firm working for compensation on a pre-1978 residential property has to be licensed by the EPA and have persons trained as “Renovators” to oversee any work.  Here are some salient points below:

• Finished surfaces are assumed to contain lead-based paint unless proven otherwise.
• If the work disturbs over 6 feet of an interior finished surface or 20 square feet of exterior surfaces, then the lead-safe protocols must be followed.
• There seems to be some confusion about the square footage numbers for the interior finished surfaces.  Colorado law might require if the work disturbs over 2 feet of interior surfaces, then lead-based practices must be followed.  Waiting to hear more about this in the future.
• All record keeping about contract work must be kept for 3 years.
• Contractors may test surfaces that are to be remodeled only.  Lead test kits must use one of each component which requires remodeling.

I know when change happens there is always a bit of uncertainty.  Make sure your clients have a lead-based inspection by a certified LBP firm.

Feel free to contact our Colorado Springs Realtors at Selley Group Real Estate, LLC:

2139 Chuckwagon Rd, Ste 210 – Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919 – 719. 598. 5101