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Thinking of home improvement projects? A new law affects you
If your home was built before 1978 and a planned remodel will disturb old paint your contractor must be newly certified to do this safely. Locate certified renovation firms in your area using this online searchable database. You can also search for accredited renovation training programs in your area.
Homes built before 1978 have lead paint that gets into construction dust and paint chips. This is dangerous - especially to kids’ health. Exposing kids to lead can cause permanent neurological damage. For more on how lead can affect you and your children, go to Lead and its human effects.
Doing it yourself? The new law doesn't cover you; for more information and to read the law, visit www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/.
Is your rental or your childcare building going to be remodeled? Owners must also be certified and follow the new lead-safe work practices.
For more renovation tips, download this document on Healthy Renovating, and visit our website for tips on how to ‘green up’ your remodel, using the Eco-Cool Remodel Tool.
For questions, contact Nicole Thomsen at 206-263-8516, Public Health-Seattle & King County and the Local Hazardous Waste Management Program.
