Certified Lead Renovator Training

EPA Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule allows Certified Renovators to use EPA-recognized paint test kit to determine whether paint is lead-based paint. If a Certified Renovator uses an EPA-recognized paint test kits to determine that the paint on every component being disturbed is not lead-based paint, then the renovation is not covered by the RRP rule. See 40 CFR 745.82(a)(2).

EPA uses 40 CFR 745.88 to evaluate and recognize paint test kits. It posts a list of all recognized paint test kits at www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/kits.htm. As of November 13, 2009, EPA has recognized two paint test kits:

Professional LeadCheck Lead Test Kit: The kit may not be used on paint on plaster and drywall due to chemical interferences. If you are working on red or pink paint, they may give a false positive. These kits are similar to - but not the same - as the ones sold in retail stores. The professional kits contain a confirmation card. Retail stores typically do not sell kits with these cards since they contain lead. The Certified Renovator must use a Confirmation Card to confirm that the kit is working properly. The kits are about $1.50 each if bought in large quantities.
State of Massachusetts Lead Test Kit: This test kits is available only to certified Massachusetts State Lead Inspectors and Risk Assessors. So renovators may not use them.

This image shows a Professional LeadCheck Paint Test Kit. The result is not unusual, the window sill has lead-based paint on the whole area shown here. Where it is yellow, the tester did not get through the surface layer of newer paint that does not contain lead. It is critical to test the oldest paint not just the paint on the surface.

Pursuant to 40 CFR 745.86(c), "When test kits are used, the renovation firm must, within 30 days of the completion of the renovation, provide identifying information as to the manufacturer and model of the test kits used, a description of the components that were tested including their locations, and the test kit results to the person who contracted for the renovation."

Under the federal lead hazard disclosure law, any owner of the property who receives this report from a renovator must disclosure the results - positive or negative - to future buyers and future tenants.

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