E.P.A. Lead Paint Rule

Pursuant to a new federal Environmental Protection Agency regulation, "Lead Based Paint Pre-Renovation Education Rule", commencing June 1, 1999 contractors performing work in residential buildings built before 1978 are required to distribute a pamphlet to tenants and owners whenever the project disturbs more than two square feet of painted surface. The Pamphlet is entitled "Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home". Excluded from the requirement are housing for the elderly, zero bedroom units (studios, dormitories), areas declared lead free by a certified inspector and "emergency renovations". Emergency renovations are defined as ". . . activities such as operations necessitated by non-routine failures of equipment, that were not planned but result a sudden, unexpected event that, if not immediately attended to, present a safety or public health hazard, or threatens equipment and/or property with significant damage."

If the project is covered by the Rule the contractor must distribute the Pamphlet to the tenants and owner prior to the commencement of the work. Contractors must document their distribution of the Pamphlets (e.g., tenant must sign, certificate of mailing, etc.) and keep these records for three years. Penalties for failure to comply can be up to $25,000 per day.

There is a thirteen page "Handbook for Contractors" which provides the details of the Rule and provides sample forms. Contractors are strongly urged to obtain a copy of this Handbook. The Handbook and a copy of the pamphlet can be obtained over the Internet at [www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/leadrenf.htm] In addition, the Pamphlet can be obtained by calling the Government Printing Office at (202) 512-1800 and providing them with the Pamphlet's reference number EPA747-K-99-001. Distribution of photocopies of the Pamphlet is acceptable as long as the copies are readable.

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