Kitchen Remodeling Guide
Lead Paint and Pre-1978 Kitchens (RRP)
If your home was built before 1978, the EPA's Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) rule requires a certified firm using lead-safe work practices for paid kitchen work that disturbs more than 6 square feet of painted surface per room. We are an EPA RRP certified firm. See our full kitchen remodel service.
What the RRP Rule Requires
Per EPA, the rule covers pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities. Minor work is exempt at 6 square feet or less of interior paint per room (20 square feet outside). Window replacement and demolition of painted surfaces are covered regardless of size. All firms paid to do covered work must be certified, including sole proprietors. (Source: EPA RRP rule.)
What Lead-Safe Work Looks Like in a Kitchen
Six practices:
- Containment with plastic sheeting
- No open-flame burning or high-speed sanding of painted surfaces
- HEPA vacuuming
- Wet cleaning
- Cleaning verification
- The EPA Renovate Right pamphlet given before work starts
Is It Safe to Live in a Pre-1978 House During a Remodel?
Generally yes when the work area is contained and cleaned to EPA standards. Families with young children or a pregnancy may choose to stay elsewhere during demolition. Ask your doctor if you are unsure. See how to survive a kitchen remodel.
Which Homes Need to Worry About Lead Paint?
Homes built before 1978, the year residential lead paint was banned in the US. Many Bethesda colonials and Capes built from the 1930s to the 1960s fall in this range.
Testing Before You Remodel
A certified renovator can test the surfaces to be disturbed, or you can assume lead is present and work lead-safe.
Do You Need a Permit for Lead-Safe Kitchen Work?
RRP is a work-practice rule, not a permit. County permits depend on the work itself. See the permit guide.
Need a kitchen remodeler in Montgomery County? Call (301) 953-6768
Next step
Remodel an Older Kitchen With a Certified Firm
Our crew is trained and certified in lead-safe practices. Request a free in-home estimate or read about us.