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.

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.