Was the home built before 1978, and will old paint be disturbed?
Home age is a reason to ask better preparation questions, not proof that lead is present.
Officially sourcedIf the home was built before 1978, ask how existing painted surfaces will be prepared and whether lead-safe requirements apply.
Scope noteThe work method matters: preparation that disturbs old paint can trigger requirements that do not apply when no painted surface is disturbed.
- If
Home was built in 1978 or later
- Then
Continue with ordinary substrate and coating checks; other hazards can still require appropriate controls.
- If
Home was built before 1978 and scraping, sanding or other disturbance of existing paint is planned
- Then
Ask whether the work falls under EPA RRP and whether lead-safe certification and practices are required.
- If
Home was built before 1978 but no existing painted surface will be disturbed
- Then
Do not assume RRP applies; document the actual preparation scope and confirm uncertainty with the authority or qualified professional.
- If
Home age or preparation method is unknown
- Then
Pause the assumption, look up the property record if available, and ask the person quoting the work to state the preparation method.
The site does not test for lead and does not determine whether a particular project is legally covered.
Official sources and scope notes
- Renovation, Repair and Painting Program: Consumers — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- Lead-Based Paint Program Frequent Questions — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- Lead Information for Contractors — Indiana Department of Health