EPA’s 2008 Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule, aims to protect the public from lead-based paint hazards associated with renovation, repair and painting activities. These activities can create hazardous lead dust when surfaces with lead paint, even from many decades ago, are disturbed. 

Under strict new EPA rules that took effect on April 22, 2010, certification is required for all home improvement activity in housing built before 1978, or pre-1978 child occupied facilities.  The new rules focus on activities that disturbs more than 6 square feet of interior or 20 square feet of exterior space.  The rule also applies to any window replacement activity no matter how small the disturbed space is. 

The EPA states anyone found to be non-compliant could face hefty fines of up to $37,500 per violation and/or jail time per incident.