Exemptions to the Rule include:

1.      Repair/maintenance work where the disturbed area is no larger than 6 sq. ft. of interior painted surface, or 20 sq. ft. of exterior surface;

2.      A certification that the work area is free of lead-based paint (as determined using an EPA recognized test kit, and the kits they sell at Home Depot & Lowes do not qualify)

3.      Renovations by an owner to their own residence. This assumes that the owner is doing the work, not having it done by a property manager or contractor “friend”

4.      Some housing may be exempt if it is shown that no child under the age of 6 or pregnant woman resides or regularly visits there. Check with your attorney to see if you are exempt.

You can view the rule at: http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-TOX/2008/April/Day-22/t8141.pdf and you can also find information and sample checklists at www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/leadinfo.htm#remodeling.

Molds are part of the natural environment.  Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided.  Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air.  Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet.  There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.

Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing.  Molds have the potential to cause health problems.  Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins).  Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.  Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis).  Allergic reactions to mold are common.  They can be immediate or delayed.  Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold.  In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people.  Symptoms other than the allergic and irritant types are not commonly reported as a result of inhaling mold.  Research on mold and health effects is ongoing.  For more detailed information consult a health professional.  You may also want to consult your state or local health department for more information.

Moisture and Mold Prevention and Control Tips

• Moisture control is the key to mold control, so when water leaks or spills occur indoors - ACT QUICKLY. If wet or damp materials or areas are dried 24 - 48 hours after a  leak or spill happens, in most cases mold will not grow.
• Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.
• Make sure the ground slopes away from the building foundation, so that water does not enter or collect around the foundation.
• Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.
• Keep indoor humidity low. If possible, keep indoor humidity below 60 percent (ideally between 30 and 50 percent) relative humidity. Relative humidity can be measured with a moisture or humidity meter, a small, inexpensive ($10 - $50) instrument available at many hardware stores.
• If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes ACT QUICKLY to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture/ water source. Condensation can be a  sign of high humidity.

Colorado House Bill 1091, which becomes legal on July 1, 2009 requires that all new or sold residential properties have carbon-monoxide deterctor alarms on each floor of the property. Rental properties also will be required to add the detector alarms when tenants change.

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that cannot be smelled or seen and can be deadly within minutes of exposure. Due to the increased use of fuel burning appliances, most incidents occur during the winter months. Approximately 83% of Colorado single-family homes use gas, wood, kerosene, coal or fuel as their main heat source, all of which emit carbon monoxide. 

To read the bill go to Colorado House Bill 1091

Indoor air quality can be worse than that of outdoor air. Problems can arise from moisture, insects, pets, appliances, radon, materials used in household products and furnishings, smoke and other sources

Effects range from minor annoyances to major health risks. Remedies include ventilation, cleaning, moisture control, inspections, and following manufacturers’ directions when using appliances and products

Research has shown that the quality of indoor air can be worse than that of outdoor air. Many homes are built or remodeled more tightly, without regard to the factors that assure fresh and healthy indoor air. Our homes today contain many furnishings, appliances and products that can affect indoor air quality.

Signs of indoor air quality problems include:

• Unusual and noticeable odors.
• Stale or stuffy air.
• Noticeable lack of air movement.
• Dirty or faulty central heating or air conditioning equipment.
• Damaged flue pipes or chimneys.
• Unvented combustion air sources for fossil fuel appliances.
• Excessive humidity.
• Presence of molds and mildew.
• Health reaction after remodeling, weatherizing, using new furniture, using household and hobby products, or moving into a new home.
• Feeling noticeably healthier outside.

Common Sources of Air Quality Problems

Poor indoor air can arise from many sources. At least some of the following contaminants can be found in almost any home:

• Moisture and biological pollutants such as molds, mildew, dust mites, animal dander and cockroaches from high humidity levels, inadequate ventilation, and poorly maintained humidifiers and air conditioners.
• Combustion products, including carbon monoxide, from unvented fossil fuel space heaters, unvented gas stoves and ovens, and backdrafting from furnaces and water heaters.
• Formaldehyde from durable press draperies and other textiles, particle board products such as cabinets and furniture framing, and adhesives.
• Radon, a radioactive gas from soil and rock beneath and around the home’s foundation, groundwater wells and some building materials.
• Household products and furnishings such as paints, solvents, air fresheners, hobby supplies, dry-cleaned clothing, aerosol sprays, adhesives, and fabric additives used in carpeting and furniture which can release volatile organic compounds.
• Asbestos found in most homes more than 20 years old. Sources include deteriorating, damaged or disturbed pipe insulation, fire retardant, acoustical material and floor tiles.
• Lead from lead-based paint dust created when removing paint by sanding, scraping or burning.
• Particulates from dust and pollen, fireplaces, wood stoves, kerosene heaters and unvented gas space heaters.
• Tobacco smoke, which produces particulates, combustion products and formaldehyde.