Offi ce of Chemical Safety and 

Pollution Prevention 

EPA-740-K-10-003

July 2010

Small Entity Compliance 

Guide to Renovate Right

EPA’s Lead-Based Paint 

Renovation, Repair, and 

Painting Program

A handbook for contractors, 

property managers and 

maintenance personnel

working in homes and

child-occupied facilities

built before 1978.

CERTIFIED FIRM

LEAD-SAFE
Who Should Read this Handbook?

• Anyone who owns or manages housing or child-occupied facilities built before 1978.

• Contractors who perform activities that disturb painted surfaces in homes and child-occupied facilities 

 built before 1978 (including certain repairs and maintenance, and painting preparation activities).

About this Handbook

This handbook summarizes requirements of EPA’s 2008 Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Program Rule, aimed at protecting against lead-based paint hazards associated with renovation, repair and painting 

activities. The rule requires workers to be trained to use lead-safe work practices and requires renovation fi rms to be 

EPA-certifi ed; these requirements became fully effective April 22, 2010.

To ensure compliance, you should also read the complete rule on which the program is based. While EPA has summarized the provisions of the rule in this guide, the legal requirements that apply to renovation work are governed 

by EPA’s 2008 Lead Rule. A copy of the rule is available on EPA’s website at www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.

htm. 

A companion pamphlet, entitled The Lead-Safe Certifi ed Guide to Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Providers, and Schools (EPA-740-K-10-001), has been prepared in conjunction with 

the rule for distribution to persons affected by work that disturbs lead-based paint. (See page 17 for information on 

how to get copies of the rule, the Renovate Right pamphlet, and other related materials.) 

Other state or local requirements that are different from or more stringent than the federal requirements 

may apply in your state. For example, federal law allows EPA to authorize states to administer their own program in 

lieu of the federal lead program. Even in states without an authorized lead program, a state 

may promulgate its own rules that may be different or go beyond the federal requirements. For more 

information on the rules that apply in your state, please contact the National Lead Information Center 

at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323).

Your feedback is important. Please review this guide and contact the National Lead Information Center 

at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) with any comments regarding its usefulness and readability, and improvements you 

think are needed.

This document is published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as the offi cial compliance guide 

for small entities, as required by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (SBREFA). 

Before you begin using the guide, you should know that the information in this guide was originally published 

in June 2008, with a signifi cant revision in July of 2010. EPA is continually improving and upgrading its rules, 

policies, compliance programs, and outreach efforts. To fi nd out if EPA has revised or supplemented the 

information in this guide call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323).
What Is the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and 

Painting Program (RRP)?

• The Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Program is a federal regulatory program affecting 

 contractors, property managers, and others who disturb painted surfaces.

• It applies to residential houses, apartments, and child-occupied facilities such as schools and day-care 

 centers built before 1978.

• It includes pre-renovation education requirements as well as training, certifi cation, and work practice 

 requirements. 

 – Pre-renovation education requirements:

 • Contractors, property managers, and others who perform renovations for compensation 

 in residential houses, apartments, and child-occupied facilities built before 1978 are required 

 to distribute a lead pamphlet before starting renovation work.

 – Training, certifi cation, and work practice requirements:

 • Firms are required to be certifi ed, their employees must be trained (either as a certifi ed renovator or on-the- 

 job by a certifi ed renovator) in use of lead-safe work practices, and lead-safe work practices that minimize 

 occupants’ exposure to lead hazards must be followed. 

 • Renovation is broadly defi ned as any activity that disturbs painted surfaces and includes most repair, 

 remodeling, and maintenance activities, including window replacement.

 • The program includes requirements implementing both Section 402(c) and 406(b) of the Toxic 

 Substances Control Act (TSCA). (www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/titleten.html) 

 • EPA’s lead regulations can be found at 40 CFR Part 745, Subpart E.

How Can this Handbook Help Me?

• Understanding the lead program’s requirements can help you protect your customers from the hazards of 

 lead and can, therefore, mean more business for you.

• This handbook presents simple steps to follow to comply with the EPA’s lead program. It also lists ways 

 these steps can be easily incorporated into your work.

• Distributing the lead pamphlet and incorporating required work practices into your job site will help protect 

 your customers and occupants from the hazards of lead-based paint.

1
Who Must Follow the Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule’s 

Requirements?

In general, anyone who is paid to perform work that disturbs paint in 

housing and child-occupied facilities built before 1978, this may include, 

but is not limited to:

– Residential rental property owners/managers

– General contractors

– Special trade contractors, including

 • Painters

 • Plumbers

 • Carpenters

 • Electricians

What Activities Are Subject to the Lead Renovation, Repair 

and Painting Program?

In general, any activity that disturbs paint in pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities, including:

• Remodeling and repair/maintenance

• Electrical work

• Plumbing

• Painting preparation

• Carpentry

• Window replacement

What Housing or Activities Are Excluded and Not Subject 

to the Rule?

• Housing built in 1978 or later.

• Housing for elderly or disabled persons, unless children under 6 reside or are expected to 

 reside there.

• Zero-bedroom dwellings (studio apartments, dormitories, etc.).

• Housing or components that have been declared lead-free. Such a declaration

 can be made by a certifi ed inspector or risk assessor. Also, a certifi ed renovator 

 may declare specifi c components lead-free using an EPA recognized test kit.

• Minor repair and maintenance activities that disturb 6 square feet or 

 less of paint per room inside, or 20 square feet or less on the exterior 

 of a home or building.

• Note: minor repair and maintenance activities do not include 

 window replacement and projects involving demolition or prohibited practices.

2
What Does the Program Require Me To Do?

Pre-renovation education requirements.

• In housing built before 1978, you must: 

 • Distribute EPA’s lead pamphlet to the owner and occupants before renovation starts.

• In a child-occupied facility, you must: 

 • Distribute the lead pamphlet to the owner of the building or an adult representative of the child-occupied 

 facility before the renovation starts.

 • Either distribute renovation notices to parents/guardians of the children attending the child-occupied facility, or

 post informational signs about the renovation or repair job.

• For work in common areas of multi-family housing, you must: 

 • Either distribute renovation notices to tenants or you must post informational signs about the renovation or 

 repair job.

• Informational signs must:

 • Be posted where they will be seen;

 • Describe the nature, locations, and dates of the renovation; and 

 • Be accompanied by the lead pamphlet or by information on how parents and guardians can get a free 

 copy (see page 29 for information on obtaining copies).

• Obtain confi rmation of receipt of the lead pamphlet (see page 23) from the owner, adult representative, or 

 occupants (as applicable), or a certifi cate of mailing from the post offi ce.

• Retain records for three years.

• Note: Pre-renovation education requirements do not apply to emergency renovations. 

 Emergency renovations include interim controls performed in response to a resident child 

 with an elevated blood-lead level.

Training, Certifi cation, and Work Practice Requirements.

• All fi rms must be certifi ed (even sole-proprietors).

• Renovators must be trained.

• Lead-safe work practices must be followed. Examples of these practices include:

 • Work-area containment to prevent dust and debris from leaving the work area.

 • Prohibition of certain work practices like open-fl ame burning and the use of power tools without HEPA 

 exhaust control.

 • Thorough clean up followed by a verifi cation procedure to minimize exposure to lead-based 

 paint hazards.

3
How Does a Firm Become Certifi ed?

Firms must apply to EPA for certifi cation to perform renovations or dust sampling. To apply, a fi rm must submit to 

EPA a completed “Application for Firms,” signed by an authorized agent of the fi rm, and pay the correct amount of 

fees. To obtain a copy of the “Application for Firms” contact the NLIC at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) or visit 

www.epa.gov/getleadsafe.

What Are the Responsibilities of a Certifi ed Firm?

Firms performing renovations must ensure that:

1. All individuals performing activities that disturb painted surfaces on behalf of the fi rm are either certifi ed 

 renovators or have been trained by a certifi ed renovator. 

2. A certifi ed renovator is assigned to each renovation and performs all of the certifi ed renovator 

 responsibilities. 

3. All renovations performed by the fi rm are performed in accordance with the work practice standards of the 

 Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program (see the fl owchart on page 9 for details 

 about the work practice standards). 

4. Pre-renovation education requirements of the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting 

 Program are performed.

5. The program’s recordkeeping requirements are met.

4
How Does a Renovator Become Certifi ed?

To become a certifi ed renovator an individual must successfully complete an eight-hour initial renovator training 

course offered by an accredited training provider (training providers are accredited by EPA, or by an authorized state 

or tribal program). The course completion certifi cate serves as proof of certifi cation. To fi nd a trainer in your area 

contact the NLIC at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) or visit http://www.epa.gov/getleadsafe.

Are There Streamlined Requirements for Contractors with 

Previous Lead Training?

Yes. Individuals who have successfully completed an accredited lead abatement worker or supervisor course, or 

individuals who have successfully completed certain EPA, Department of Housing and Urban 

Development (HUD), or EPA/HUD model renovation training courses, need only take a four-hour refresher renovator training course instead of the eight-hour initial renovator training course to become certifi ed. For a list of qualifi ed previous training courses contact the NLIC at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) or visit http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/

trainerinstructions.htm#refresher.

What Are the Responsibilities of a Certifi ed Renovator?

Certifi ed renovators are responsible for ensuring overall compliance with the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, 

and Painting Program’s requirements for lead-safe work practices at renovations they are assigned (see the fl owchart 

on page 9 for details about the work practice standards). A certifi ed renovator:

1. Must provide on-the-job training to other workers (who have not taken the certifi ed renovator training course) on

 the work practices they will be using in performing their assigned tasks. 

2. Must be physically present at the work site when warning signs are posted, while the work-area 

 containment is being established, and while the work-area cleaning is performed. 

3. Must regularly direct work being performed by other individuals to ensure that the work practices are 

 being followed, including maintaining the integrity of the containment barriers and ensuring that dust or 

 debris does not spread beyond the work area. 

4. When requested by the party contracting for renovation services, must use an EPA recognized test kit to deter-

 mine whether components affected by the renovation contain lead-based paint (For more information regarding

 test kits call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323), or check our web site at 

 www. epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm). Note: you must assume lead-based paint is present for housing and 

 buildings covered by this rule, unless testing is done that determines the components affected are lead-free.

5. Must be available, either on-site or by telephone, at all times renovations are being conducted. 

6. Must perform project cleaning verifi cation. 

7. Must have with them at the work site copies of their initial course completion certifi cate and their most 

 recent refresher course completion certifi cate. 

8. Must prepare required records. 

5
How Long Do Firm and Renovator Certifi cations Last?

To maintain their certifi cation, renovators and fi rms must be re-certifi ed by EPA every fi ve years. A fi rm must 

submit to EPA a completed “Application for Firms,” signed by an authorized agent of the fi rm, and pay the 

correct amount of fees. Renovators must successfully complete a refresher training course provided by an 

accredited training provider.

What Are the Recordkeeping Requirements?

• All documents must be retained for three years following the completion of a renovation.

• Records that must be retained include:

 • Reports certifying that lead-based paint is not present.

 • Records relating to the distribution of the lead pamphlet.

 • Documentation of compliance with the requirements of the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, 

 Repair, and Painting Program. This information must also be given to the owner and, if different, the 

 occupant of the housing or unit that was renovated (EPA has prepared a sample form that is available at 

 www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/samplechecklist.pdf).

What Are the Required Work Practices?

The fl ow charts on the following pages will help determine if your project is subject to the Lead-Based 

Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Program’s requirements and, if so, the specifi c requirements for 

your particular project. The fl owcharts, and other information included in this guide, are not intended 

to be a replacement for offi cial training.

6
Do the Requirements Apply to the Renovation?

If you will be getting paid to do work that disturbs painted surfaces in a pre-1978 home, apartment 

building, or child-occupied facility, answer the questions below to determine if the EPA lead program 

requires you to distribute the lead pamphlet and/or if you will need to comply with training, certifi cation, 

and work practice requirements when conducting the work.

EPA’s Lead Program Rule At-A-Glance

EPA 

lead-based 

paint renovation, 

repair, and 

painting program 

requirements 

do not apply.

Pre-renovation

education 

requirements 

of the program 

do not apply. 

See Flow Chart 3 

to determine which

specifi c renovation

training and work 

practice requirements apply to the job.

Does the job involve activities that disturb painted surfaces in a 

home or child-occupied facility built before 1978?

Are ANY of the following conditions present?

• The work is a lead abatement project.

• Work consists of only minor repairs or maintenance that 

 disturb 6 square feet or less of painted surfaces per room 

 for interior activities or 20 square feet or less of painted 

 surface for exterior activities. Note: this does not include 

 window replacement, demolition, and projects involving 

 prohibited practices.

• Housing has been determined to be free of lead-based paint 

 either by a certifi ed inspector or risk assessor, or the 

 components being renovated have been determined to be 

 free of lead-based paint by a certifi ed renovator using an 

 EPA recognized test kit.

• Housing is a zero-bedroom dwelling (studio apartments, 

 dormitories, etc.).

• Housing is for the elderly or disabled and no children under 

 six reside or are expected to reside there.

Is the project an emergency renovation?

Emergency renovations are:

1. Activities that were not planned and if not immediately 

 attended to present a safety hazard or threaten equipment 

 and/or property with signifi cant damage. 

OR

2. Interim controls performed in response to an elevated blood 

 lead level in a resident child.

YES

NO

NO

You will need to provide the lead pamphlet. 

See Flow Chart 2 for specifi c requirements. 

NO

YES

YES

Flow Chart 1 7
How Do I Comply with the Pre-Renovation Education Requirements?

Requirements to distribute pre-renovation educational materials vary based on the location of the 

renovation. Select the location below that best describes the location of your project, and follow the 

applicable procedure on the right.

See

Flow 

Chart 3 

for 

information 

about 

specifi c 

training 

and work

practice 

requirements

for the job.

Deliver lead pamphlet to owner before renovation begins and 

obtain confi rmation of receipt.

OR

Mail lead pamphlet to owner 7 days before renovation begins 

and document with certifi cate of mailing.

1. Provide lead pamphlet to owner using either procedure 

 described in the box at the top of this page.

2. Provide lead pamphlet to tenant by either method below:

 (a) Deliver pamphlet to dwelling unit before renovation 

 begins and document delivery with either a confi rmation 

 of receipt of lead pamphlet or a self-certifi cation of 

 delivery.

OR

 (b) Mail lead pamphlet to tenant at least 7 days prior to 

 renovation and document with a certifi cate of mailing.

1. Provide owner with lead pamphlet using either procedure 

 described in the box at the top of this page.

2. Notify tenants and make pamphlet available, or post signs 

 describing the renovation. The signs must include the 

 pamphlet or information on how to review a copy.

3. Maintain written documentation describing notifi cation 

 procedures.

4. Provide supplemental renovation notice if changes occur in

 location, timing, or scope of renovation occurring.

1. Provide the owner of the building with the lead pamphlet 

 using either:

 (a) The procedure described in the box at the top of this

 page.

OR

 (b) If the child-occupied facility is not the building owner, 

 provide the lead pamphlet by either method below: 

 (i) Obtain a written acknowledgment that an adult 

 representative received the pamphlet; or certify in 

 writing that a pamphlet was delivered.

OR

 (ii) Obtain a certifi cate of mailing at least 7 days before the reno- 

 vation. 

2. Provide the parents or guardians of children using the child 

 occupied facility with information by either of these methods:

 (a) Mail or hand-deliver the lead pamphlet and renovation 

 information to each parent or guardian.

OR

 (b) Post signs describing the renovation. The signs must 

 include the pamphlet or information on how to review 

 a copy.

 Renovations in 

Owner-Occupied 

Dwelling Units

Renovations in 

Tenant-Occupied 

Dwelling Units

Renovations in 

Common Areas 

of Multi-Family 

Housing Units

Renovations in 

Child-Occupied 

Facilities

8 Flow Chart 2
Do the Renovation Training and Work Practices Apply?

Continue to

Flow Chart 4 

for work 

practice 

requirements.

Is the project an emergency renovation? 

Does the project include interim controls performed in 

response to an elevated blood lead level of a resident 

child?

Emergency projects are exempt from the warning sign, 

containment, waste handling, training, and certifi cation 

requirements to the extent necessary to respond to the 

emergency. Emergency renovations are NOT exempt 

from the cleaning and cleaning verifi cation requirements. 

See Flow Chart 5 for interior cleaning and cleaning 

verifi cation requirements, and Flow Chart 8 for exterior 

cleaning and verifi cation requirements.

NO

NO

YES

YES

Flow Chart 3 9
General

(A) Renovations must be performed by certifi ed fi rms using certifi ed renovators. 

(B) Firms must post signs clearly defi ning the work area and warning occupants and other persons 

 not involved in renovation activities to remain outside of the work area. These signs should be 

 in the language of the occupants. 

(C) Prior to the renovation, the fi rm must contain the work area so that no dust or debris leaves 

 the work area while the renovation is being performed.

(D) Work practices listed below are prohibited during a renovation:

 1. Open-fl ame burning or torching of lead-based paint;

 2. Use of machines that remove lead-based paint through high speed operation such as 

 sanding, grinding, power planing, needle gun, abrasive blasting, or sandblasting, unless 

 such machines are used with HEPA exhaust control; and 

 3. Operating a heat gun on lead-based paint at temperatures of 1100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

(E) Waste from renovations:

 1. Waste from renovation activities must be contained to prevent releases of dust and debris 

 before the waste is removed from the work area for storage or disposal.

 2. At the conclusion of each work day and at the conclusion of the renovation, waste that has 

 been collected from renovation activities must be stored to prevent access to and the release 

 of dust and debris. 

 3. Waste transported from renovation activities must be contained to prevent release of dust 

 and debris.

Work Practice Requirements

 Interior

Renovation

Projects. 

See Flow 

Chart 5.

Exterior

Renovation

Projects. 

See Flow 

Chart 8.

10 Flow Chart 4
The fi rm must: 

(A) Remove all objects from the work area or cover them with plastic sheeting with all seams and 

 edges sealed. 

(B) Close and cover all ducts opening in the work area with taped-down plastic sheeting. 

(C) Close windows and doors in the work area. Doors must be covered with plastic sheeting. 

(D) Cover the fl oor surface with taped-down plastic sheeting in the work area a minimum of six feet 

 beyond the perimeter of surfaces undergoing renovation or a suffi cient distance to contain the 

 dust, whichever is greater.

(E) Use precautions to ensure that all personnel, tools, and other items, including the exteriors of 

 containers of waste, are free of dust and debris when leaving the work area. 

(F) After the renovation has been completed, the fi rm must clean the work area until no dust, debris or 

 residue remains. The fi rm must: 

 1. Collect all paint chips and debris, and seal it in a heavy-duty bag.

 2. Remove and dispose of protective sheeting as waste.

 3. Clean all objects and surfaces in the work area and within two feet of the work area in the 

 following manner:

 a. Clean walls starting at the ceiling and working down to the fl oor by either vacuuming with a 

 HEPA vacuum or wiping with a damp cloth. 

 b. Thoroughly vacuum all remaining surfaces and objects in the work area, including furniture 

 and fi xtures, with a HEPA vacuum.

 c. Wipe all remaining surfaces and objects in the work area, except for carpeted or 

 upholstered surfaces, with a damp cloth. Mop uncarpeted fl oors thoroughly using a 

 mopping method that keeps the wash water separate from the rinse water, or using a 

 wet mopping system.

Work Practice Requirements Specifi c to Interior Renovations

Cleaning verifi cation is required to ensure the work area

is adequately cleaned and ready for re-occupancy. 

See Flow Chart 6 for instructions on performing cleaning

verifi cation for interior projects.

Flow Chart 5 11
Interior Cleaning Verifi cation: Visual Inspection and Optional 

Clearance Testing

The area must be

re-cleaned and another

visual inspection must 

be performed.

Continue to

cleaning 

verifi cation

procedure. 

See Flow

Chart 7.

Certifi ed renovator must perform a visual inspection.

Is dust, debris or residue present?

Does the contract, or another federal, state, territorial, tribal, or 

local regulation, require clearance testing at the conclusion of the 

renovation?

Are the dust clearance samples required to be collected 

by a certifi ed inspector, risk assessor or dust sampling 

technician, and is the renovation fi rm required to re-clean the 

work area until the dust clearance sample results are below 

applicable clearance standards? 

When you meet the applicable clearance standards, 

you’re fi nished!

NO

YES

NO

NO

YES

YES

12 Flow Chart 6
Interior Cleaning Verifi cation: Floors, Countertops, and Window Sills

Note: For areas greater than 40 square feet, separate the area into sections and use a new disposable 

cleaning cloth for each section.

The 

work area

has been

adequately

cleaned

and 

warning

signs

may be

removed.

Certifi ed renovator must wipe all uncarpeted fl oors, countertops, 

and windowsills within the work area with a wet disposable cleaning cloth. Is the cloth used for any area darker than the cleaning 

verifi cation card?

Re-clean the areas that failed using the procedures from Flow 

Chart 5, then use a new wet disposable cleaning cloth to wipe 

those areas again. Is the cloth used for any area darker than the 

cleaning verifi cation card?

Wait until either the area has dried completely or 1 hour has 

passed, whichever is longer. Once dry, wipe that area with a dry 

disposable cleaning cloth.

YES

NO

NO

YES

You’re fi nished!

Flow Chart 7 13
The fi rm must: 

(A) Close all doors and windows within 20 feet of the renovation. 

(B) Ensure that doors within the work area that will be used while the job is being performed are 

 covered with plastic sheeting in a manner that allows workers to pass through while confi ning 

 dust and debris.

(C) Cover the ground with plastic sheeting or other disposable impermeable material extending a 

 minimum of 10 feet beyond the perimeter or a suffi cient distance to collect falling paint debris, 

 whichever is greater.

(D) In situations such as where work areas are in close proximity to other buildings, windy conditions, 

 etc., the renovation fi rm must take extra precautions in containing the work area, like vertical 

 containment. 

(E) After the renovation has been completed, the fi rm must clean the work area until no dust, debris 

 or residue remains. The fi rm must: 

 1. Collect all paint chips and debris, and seal it in a heavy-duty bag.

 2. Remove and dispose of protective sheeting as waste.

 3. Waste transported from renovation activities must be contained to prevent release of dust and debris.

Work Practice Requirements Specifi c to Exterior Renovations 

A certifi ed renovator must perform a visual inspection.

Is dust, debris or residue present?

These conditions 

must be eliminated and 

another visual inspection must 

be performed.

The area has 

been adequately 

cleaned; remove 

the warning signs.

YES NO

You’re fi nished!

14 Flow Chart 8
How Is My Compliance Determined, and What Happens if the 

Agency Discovers a Violation?

To maximize compliance, EPA implements a balanced program of compliance assistance, compliance incentives, and traditional law enforcement. EPA knows that small businesses that must comply with complicated 

new statutes or rules often want to do the right thing, but may lack the requisite knowledge, resources, or 

skills. Compliance assistance information and technical advice helps small businesses to understand and 

meet their environmental obligations. Compliance incentives, such as EPA’s Small Business Policy, apply to 

businesses with 100 or fewer employees and encourage persons to voluntarily discover, disclose, and correct violations before they are identifi ed by the government (more information about EPA’s Small Business 

Policy is available at www.epa.gov/compliance/incentives/smallbusiness/index.html). EPA’s enforcement 

program is aimed at protecting the public by targeting persons or entities who neither comply nor cooperate 

to address their legal obligations. 

EPA uses a variety of methods to determine whether businesses are complying, including inspecting work sites, 

reviewing records and reports, and responding to citizen tips and complaints. Under TSCA, EPA (or a state, if this 

program has been delegated to it) may fi le an enforcement action against violators seeking penalties of up to $37,500 

per violation, per day. The proposed penalty in a given case will depend on many factors, including the number, 

length, and severity of the violations, the economic benefi t obtained by the violator, and its ability to pay. EPA has 

policies in place to ensure penalties are calculated fairly. These policies are available to the public. In addition, any 

company charged with a violation has the right to contest EPA’s allegations and proposed penalty before an impartial 

judge or jury. 

EPA encourages small businesses to work with the Agency to discover, disclose, and correct violations. 

The Agency has developed self-disclosure, small business, and small community policies to modify penalties for small and large entities that cooperate with EPA to address compliance problems. In addition, EPA 

has established compliance assistance centers to serve over one million small businesses (see Construction 

Industry Compliance Assistance Center for information regarding this rule at www.cicacenter.org). For more 

information on compliance assistance and other EPA programs for small businesses, please contact EPA’s 

Small Business Ombudsman at 202-566-2075. 

15
Frequent Questions

What is the legal status of this guide? 

This guide was prepared pursuant to section 212 of SBREFA. EPA has tried to help explain in this guide 

what you must do to comply with the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and EPA’s lead regulations. 

However, this guide has no legal effect and does not create any legal rights. Compliance with the procedures 

described in this guide does not establish compliance with the rule or establish a presumption or inference 

of compliance. The legal requirements that apply to renovation work are governed by EPA’s 2008 Lead Rule, 

which controls if there is any inconsistency between the rule and the information in this guide. 

Is painting considered renovation if no surface preparation activity occurs?

No. If the surface to be painted is not disturbed by sanding, scraping, or other activities that may 

cause dust, the work is not considered renovation and EPA’s lead program requirements do not apply. 

However, painting projects that involve surface preparation that disturbs paint, such as sanding and 

scraping, would be covered. 

What if I renovate my own home?

EPA’s lead program rules apply only to renovations performed for compensation; therefore, if you work on 

your own home, the rules do not apply. EPA encourages homeowners to use lead-safe work practices, 

nonetheless, in order to protect themselves, their families, and the value of their homes.

Is a renovation performed by a landlord or employees of a property management 

fi rm considered a compensated renovation under EPA’s lead program rules?

Yes. The receipt of rent payments or salaries derived from rent payments is considered compensation under 

EPA’s lead program. Therefore, renovation activities performed by landlords or employees of landlords are 

covered.

Do I have to give out the lead pamphlet seven days prior to beginning renovation 

activities?

The 7-day advance delivery requirement applies only when you deliver the lead pamphlet by mail; 

otherwise, you may deliver the pamphlet anytime before the renovation begins so long as the renovation 

begins within 60 days of the date that the pamphlet is delivered. For example, if your renovation is to begin 

May 30, you may deliver the pamphlet in person anytime between April 1 and start of the project on May 30, 

or you may deliver the pamphlet by mail anytime between April 1 and May 23. 

Tips for Easy Compliance

1. For your convenience the sample form on page 23 of this handbook is included in the 

 Renovate Right pamphlet (see page 29 for information on how to get copies). Attach the forms to 

 the back of your customer renovation or repair contracts. The completed forms can be fi led along 

 with your regular paperwork.

2. Plan ahead to obtain enough copies of the lead pamphlet (see page 29 for information on how to 

 get copies of the pamphlet).

16
Where Can I Get More Information?

Further information is available from the National Lead Information Center (800-424-LEAD) and on 

the Internet at www.epa.gov/lead. Available resources include:

• Full text version of the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program regulation.

• Interpretive guidance which provides more detailed information on the rule’s requirements.

• A downloadable version of the lead pamphlet.

Why Is Lead Paint Dangerous?

Lead gets into the body when it is swallowed or inhaled. People, 

especially children, can swallow lead dust as they eat, play, and do 

other normal hand-to-mouth activities. People may also breathe in 

lead dust or fumes if they disturb lead-based paint. People who 

sand, scrape, burn, brush, blast or otherwise disturb lead-based 

paint risk unsafe exposure to lead. 

Lead is especially dangerous to children under 6 years of age.

Lead can affect children’s brains and developing nervous 

systems, causing: 

• Reduced IQ and learning disabilities. 

• Behavioral problems. 

Even children who appear healthy can have dangerous levels of lead in their bodies. 

Lead is also harmful to adults. In adults, low levels of 

lead can pose many dangers, including:

• High blood pressure and hypertension. 

• Pregnant women exposed to lead can transfer lead to 

 their fetus. 

17
Other Resources

For additional information on how to protect yourself and your customers from lead paint hazards, 

visit www.epa.gov/lead or call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323). 

Available documents include:

• The Lead-Safe Certifi ed Guide to Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care 

 Providers and Schools

• Joint EPA-HUD Curriculum: Lead Safety for Remodeling, Repair, and Painting

• Steps to Lead Safe Renovation, Repair and Painting

• Fight Lead Poisoning with a Healthy Diet

• Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home

• Lead in Your Home: A Parent’s Reference Guide

18
Key Terms

Certifi cate of Mailing — A written verifi cation from the Postal Service that you mailed the lead pamphlet to an 

owner or a tenant. This is less expensive than certifi ed mail, which is also acceptable for meeting the Lead-Based 

Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program requirements. (Note: If using this delivery 

option, you must mail the pamphlet at least seven days prior to the start of renovation.)

Certifi ed Inspector or Risk Assessor — An individual who has been trained and is certifi ed by EPA or an 

authorized state or Indian Tribe to conduct lead-based paint inspections or risk assessments.

Child-occupied Facility — May include, but is not limited to, day care centers, pre-schools and kindergarten classrooms. Child-occupied facilities may be located in target housing or in public or commercial buildings. The regulation defi nes a “child-occupied facility” as a building, or portion of a building, constructed prior to 1978, visited 

regularly by the same child, under 6 years of age, on at least two different days within any week (Sunday through 

Saturday period), provided that each day’s visit lasts at least three hours and the combined weekly visits last at least 

six hours, and the combined annual visits last at least 60 hours. Child-occupied facilities may be located in target 

housing, or in public or commercial buildings. With respect to common areas in public or commercial buildings that 

contain child-occupied facilities, the child-occupied facility encompasses only those common areas that are routinely 

used by children under age 6, such as restrooms and cafeterias. Common areas that children under age 6 only pass 

through, such as hallways, stairways, and garages are not included. In addition, with respect to exteriors of public or 

commercial buildings that contain child-occupied facilities, the child-occupied facility encompasses only the exterior sides of the building that are immediately adjacent to the child-occupied facility or the common areas routinely 

used by children under age 6. 

Cleaning Verifi cation Card — a card developed and distributed by EPA for the purpose of determining, 

through comparison of wet and dry disposable cleaning cloths with the card, whether post-renovation 

cleaning has been properly completed.

Common Area — A portion of a building that is generally accessible to all residents or users. Common 

areas include (but are not limited to) hallways, stairways, laundry rooms, recreational rooms, playgrounds, community centers, and fenced areas. The term applies to both interiors and exteriors of the building. 

Component — A specifi c design or structural element or fi xture distinguished by its form, function, and 

location. A component can be located inside or outside the dwelling.

Examples

Interior Exterior

Ceilings Painted roofi ng

Crown molding Chimneys

Walls Flashing

Doors and trim Gutters and downspouts

Floors Ceilings

Fireplaces Soffi ts

Radiators Doors and trim

Shelves Fences

Stair treads Floors

Windows and trim Joists

Built-in cabinets Handrails

Beams Window sills and sashes

Bathroom vanities Air conditioners

Counter tops

Air conditioners 19
Confi rmation of Receipt of Lead Hazard Information Pamphlet — A form that is signed by the owner or 

tenant of the housing confi rming that they received a copy of the lead pamphlet before the renovation began. 

(See sample on page 23.)

Emergency Renovation — Unplanned renovation activities done in response to a sudden, unexpected 

event which, if not immediately attended to, presents a safety or public health hazard or threatens property 

with signifi cant damage.

Examples

• Renovation to repair damage from a tree that fell on a house.

• Renovation to repair a burst water pipe in an apartment complex.

• Interim controls performed in response to an elevated blood lead level in a resident child.

Firm — A company, partnership, corporation, sole proprietorship or individual doing business, association, 

or other business entity; a Federal, State, Tribal, or local government agency; or a nonprofi t organization.

General Contractor — One who contracts for the construction of an entire building or project, 

rather than for a portion of the work. The general contractor hires subcontractors (e.g. plumbing, 

electrical, etc.), coordinates all work, and is responsible for payment to subcontractors.

Housing for the Elderly — Retirement communities or similar types of housing specifi cally reserved for 

households of one or more persons 62 years of age or older at the time the unit is fi rst occupied.

Interim Controls — Interim controls means a set of measures designed to temporarily reduce 

human exposure or likely exposure to lead-based paint hazards, including specialized cleaning, repairs, 

maintenance, painting, temporary containment, ongoing monitoring of lead-based paint hazards or potential 

hazards, and the establishment and operation of management and resident education programs.

Lead Abatement — Work designed to permanently eliminate lead-based paint hazards. If you are hired to 

do lead-abatement work only, the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program does not 

apply. Abatement does not include renovation, remodeling, or other activities done to repair, restore, or 

redesign a given building — even if such renovation activities incidentally eliminate lead-based paint hazards. 

(Note: Some states defi ne this term differently than described above. Consult your state offi cials if you are 

not sure how “lead abatement” is defi ned in your state.)

Lead Pamphlet — The lead hazard information pamphlet for the purpose of pre-renovation education is The LeadSafe Certifi ed Guide to Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Facilities and 

Schools, or an EPA-approved alternative pamphlet. (See page 29 for information on obtaining copies.)

20
Minor Repair and Maintenance — Activities that disrupt 6 square feet or less of painted surface per room 

for interior activities or 20 square feet or less of painted surface for exterior activities where none of the 

prohibited work practices is used and where the work does not involve window replacement or demolition of 

painted surface areas. When removing painted components, or portions of painted components, the entire 

surface area removed is the amount of painted surface disturbed. Jobs, other than emergency renovations, 

performed in the same room within the same 30 days must be considered the same job for the purpose of 

determining whether the job is a minor repair and maintenance activity.

Owner — Any person or entity that has legal title to housing, including individuals, partnerships, 

corporations, government agencies, Indian Tribes, and nonprofi t organizations.

Prohibited Practices — Work practices listed below are prohibited during a renovation:

• Open-fl ame burning or torching of lead-based paint;

• Use of machines that remove lead-based paint through high speed operation such as sanding, 

 grinding, power planing, needle gun, abrasive blasting, or sandblasting, unless such machines are 

 used with HEPA exhaust control; and 

• Operating a heat gun on lead-based paint at temperatures above 1100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Record of Notifi cation — A written statement documenting the steps taken to notify occupants of 

renovation activities in common areas of multi-family housing. (See page 25 for sample.)

Renovation — Modifi cation of all or part of any existing structure that disturbs a painted surface, 

except for some specifi cally exempted activities (e.g., minor repair and maintenance). Includes:

• Removal/modifi cation of painted surfaces, components, or structures

• Surface preparation activities (sanding/scraping/other activities that may create paint dust)

• Window replacement

Examples

1. Demolition of painted walls or ceilings

2. Replastering

3. Plumbing repairs or improvements

4. Any other activities which disturb painted surfaces

Renovation Notice — Notice to tenants of renovations in common areas of multi-family housing. (See sample form 

on page 25.) Notice must describe nature, location, and expected timing of renovation activity; and must explain 

how the lead pamphlet may be obtained free of charge.

Renovator — A person who either performs or directs workers who perform renovation. A certifi ed renovator is a 

renovator who has successfully completed a renovator course accredited by EPA or an EPA authorized State or Tribal program. (Note: Because the term “renovation” is defi ned broadly by the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, 

and Painting Program, many contractors who are not generally considered “renovators”, as that term is commonly 

used, are considered to be “renovators” under the program and must follow the rule’s requirements.)

21
Self-Certifi cation of Delivery — An alternative method of 

documenting delivery of the lead hazard information pamphlet to a tenant. This method may be used whenever the 

tenant is unavailable or unwilling to sign a confi rmation 

of receipt of lead pamphlet. (See sample form on page 

23.) (Note: This method is not a permissible substitute for 

delivery of the lead pamphlet to an owner.)

Supplemental Renovation Notice — additional 

notifi cation that is required when the scope, location, 

or timing of project changes.

Zero-Bedroom Dwelling — Any residential 

dwelling where the living area is not separated from 

the sleeping area. This term includes effi ciency and 

studio apartments, dormitory housing, and military 

barracks.

22
Sample Pre-Renovation Form 

This sample form may be used by fi rms to document compliance with the requirements of the Federal 

Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program. 

Occupant Confi rmation 

Pamphlet Receipt 

___ I have received a copy of the lead hazard information pamphlet informing me of the potential risk of the 

 lead hazard exposure from renovation activity to be performed in my dwelling unit. I received this 

 pamphlet before the work began. 

Printed Name of Owner-occupant 

Signature of Owner-occupant Signature Date 

Renovator’s Self Certifi cation Option (for tenant-occupied dwellings only)

Instructions to Renovator: If the lead hazard information pamphlet was delivered but a tenant signature was not 

obtainable, you may check the appropriate box below. 

___ Declined – I certify that I have made a good faith effort to deliver the lead hazard information pamphlet 

 to the rental dwelling unit listed below at the date and time indicated and that the occupant declined to sign the 

 confi rmation of receipt. I further certify that I have left a copy of the pamphlet at the unit with the occupant. 

___ Unavailable for signature – I certify that I have made a good faith effort to deliver the lead hazard 

 information pamphlet to the rental dwelling unit listed below and that the occupant was unavailable to 

 sign the confi rmation of receipt. I further certify that I have left a copy of the pamphlet at the unit by 

 sliding it under the door or by (fi ll in how pamphlet was left). 

Printed Name of Person Certifying Delivery Attempted Delivery Date 

Signature of Person Certifying Lead Pamphlet Delivery 

Unit Address

Note Regarding Mailing Option –– As an alternative to delivery in person, you may mail the lead 

hazard information pamphlet to the owner and/or tenant. Pamphlet must be mailed at least 7 days 

before renovation. Mailing must be documented by a certifi cate of mailing from the post offi ce. 

23
24
Sample Forms (continued)

25

Renovation Notice — For use in notifying tenants of renovations in common areas of multi-family 

housing.

The following renovation activities will take place in the following locations:

Activity (e.g., sanding, window replacement)

Location (e.g., lobby, recreation center)

The expected starting date is____________and the expected ending date is____________. 

Because this is an older building built before 1978, some of the paint disturbed during the renovation 

may contain lead. You may obtain a copy of the pamphlet, Renovate Right, by telephoning me 

at________________________________. Please leave a message and be sure to include your name, 

phone number and address. I will either mail you a pamphlet or slide one under your door.

Date Printed name of renovator

Signature of renovator

Record of Tenant Notifi cation Procedures 

Project Address 

Street (apt. #)

City State Zip Code

Owner of multi-family housing Number of dwelling units

Method of delivering notice forms (e.g. delivery to units, delivery to mailboxes of units)

Name of person delivering notices

Signature of person delivering notices Date of Delivery
26
Sample Renovation Recordkeeping Checklist

Name of Firm: 

Date and Location of Renovation: 

Brief Description of Renovation: 

Name of Assigned Renovator:

Name(s) of Trained Worker(s), if used: 

Name of Dust Sampling Technician, 

Inspector, or Risk Assessor, if used:

___ Copies of renovator and dust sampling technician qualifi cations (training certifi cates, certifi cations) on fi le.

___ Certifi ed renovator provided training to workers on (check all that apply):

 ___ Posting warning signs ___ Setting up plastic containment barriers

 ___ Maintaining containment ___ Avoiding spread of dust to adjacent areas

 ___ Waste handling ___ Post-renovation cleaning

 ___ Test kits used by certifi ed renovator to determine whether lead was present on components affected 

 by renovation (identify kits used and describe sampling locations and results):

___ Warning signs posted at entrance to work area.

___ Work area contained to prevent spread of dust and debris

 ___ All objects in the work area removed or covered (interiors)

 ___ HVAC ducts in the work area closed and covered (interiors)

 ___ Windows in the work area closed (interiors)

 ___ Windows in and within 20 feet of the work area closed (exteriors)

 ___ Doors in the work area closed and sealed (interiors)

 ___ Doors in and within 20 feet of the work area closed and sealed (exteriors)

 ___ Doors that must be used in the work area covered to allow passage but prevent spread of dust

 ___ Floors in the work area covered with taped-down plastic (interiors)

 ___ Ground covered by plastic extending 10 feet from work area—plastic anchored to building and 

 weighed down by heavy objects (exteriors)

 ___ If necessary, vertical containment installed to prevent migration of dust and debris to adjacent 

 property (exteriors)

___ Waste contained on-site and while being transported off-site.

___ Work site properly cleaned after renovation

 ___ All chips and debris picked up, protective sheeting misted, folded dirty side inward, and taped 

 for removal

 ___ Work area surfaces and objects cleaned using HEPA vacuum and/or wet cloths or mops (interiors)

___ Certifi ed renovator performed post-renovation cleaning verifi cation (describe results, including the 

 number of wet and dry cloths used):

 

 ___ If dust clearance testing was performed instead, attach a copy of report

___ I certify under penalty of law that the above information is true and complete.

Name and title Date

27
28
Where Can I Get Copies of the Lead Pamphlet?

For single copies, in Spanish or English, of The Lead-Safe Certifi ed Guide to Renovate Right: Important Lead 

Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Facilities and Schools (EPA-740-K-10-001), call the National 

Lead Information Center (NLIC) at 1-800-424-LEAD. For any orders, be sure to use the appropriate stock 

reference number listed above.

There are four ways to get multiple copies:

1. Call the Government Printing Offi ce (GPO) Order Desk at 

 (202) 512-1800.

2. Order from the GPO Bookstore at 

 http://bookstore.gpo.gov/environment.

3. Request copies in writing from:

 U.S. GPO

 P.O. Box 979050

 St. Louis, MO 63197-9000

4. Obtain downloadable copies (PDF) from the EPA website at 

 www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/brochure.htm.

The pamphlet may be photocopied for distribution as long as the text 

and graphics are readable.

Paperwork Reduction Act Notice: The incremental public burden for the collection of information contained in the Lead 

Renovation, Painting and Repair Program, which are approved under OMB Control No. 2070-0155 and identifi ed under 

EPA ICR No. 1715, is estimated to average approximately 54 hours per year for training providers. For fi rms engaged 

in regulated renovation, repair, and painting activities, the average incremental burden is estimated to be about 6.5 

hours per year. Comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing the burden, may be sent to: Director, Collection Strategies Division, Offi ce of Environmental 

Information, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Mail Code 2822T), 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, 

D.C. 20460. Include the OMB number identifi ed above in any correspondence. Do not send any completed form(s) to 

this address. The actual information or form(s) should be submitted in accordance with the instructions accompanying 

the form(s), or as specifi ed in the corresponding regulations.

29
NOTICE 

This guide was prepared pursuant to section 212 of the Small Business Regulatory 

Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (SBREFA), Pub. L. 104-121. THIS DOCUMENT IS NOT 

INTENDED, NOR CAN IT BE RELIED UPON, TO CREATE ANY RIGHTS ENFORCEABLE 

BY ANY PARTY IN LITIGATION WITH THE UNITED STATES. The statements in this 

document are intended solely as guidance to aid you in complying with the Lead-Based 

Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting Program requirements in 40 CFR 745, Subpart E. 

EPA may decide to revise this guide without public notice to refl ect changes in EPA’s 

approach to implementing the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting 

Program or to clarify and update text. To determine whether EPA has revised this guide 

and/or to obtain copies, contact EPA’s Small Business Ombudsman at 202-566-2075, 

or contact the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD(5323), or on the 

web at www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/nlic.htm.

1-800-424-LEAD (5323)

www.epa.gov/lead