Is your remodel safe?

As of April 2010, federal law requires contractors that disturb lead-based paint in buildings built before 1978 be certified and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. Therefore beginning in April 2010 ask to see the contractor’s certification.

At least one employee in any company working on renovation or remodeling projects in homes built before 1978 must be certified in new lead paint safety requirements. At Wel-Vant Construction, 90 percent of our employees are certified in the new lead safety requirements for painting and remodeling.

What do you need to know about lead?

Lead is a toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around our homes. Lead also can be emitted into the air from motor vehicles and industrial sources, and lead can enter drinking water from plumbing materials.

Lead may cause a large range of health effects from behavioral problems and learning disabilities to seizures and death. Children 6 years old and younger are most at risk. Lead poisoning remains a major environmental health problem in the United States.

Common renovation activities like sanding, cutting and demolition can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be harmful to adults and children. The three basic tenants of lead-safety practices are to contain the work area, minimize dust and clean thoroughly.

At Wel-Vant Construction, those three principles are adhered to no matter what the age of the building or the size of the project. After April 2010, or per a Homeowners request, the EPA is recommending that a lead dust test be completed.

Find out more about the EPA's lead regulations by clicking here.

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