As of April 22, 2010 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is instituting new regulations requiring contractors working on homes built prior to 1978 to follow practices designed to minimize the exposure of residents to lead hazards.

Schachne Architects & Builders is registered as an EPA Certified Firm to perform renovation, repair, and painting work on pre 1978 homes.   If your home was built prior to 1978 the home owner by law is required to recieve from the certified contractor an EPA brochure titled “Renovate Right” which includes facts about lead and lead safety in the home.  The home owner is required to read and sign this document to verify that they have been properly notified of the dangers.

Schachne Architects & Builders wants to educate potential clients on how to protect themselves from harmful lead exposure during renovations.  If you know your home was built prior to 1978 and your renovation will disturb painted surfaces you will have to hire an EPA Certified Firm.

Schachne Architects & Builders completed an eight hour training and certification course with an accredited trainer.  When working on a pre 1978 home we are required to test, document and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of lead dust.   Procedures include marking the work area with appropriate signage, installing warning tape around the work area, containing the work so that dust and debris cannot escape, using methods to minimizing dust during sanding or scraping, and thoroughly cleaning up the work area with devices such as HEPA vacuums and wet mopping.

As a certified contractor, we are required to post our certification on the job site.  The EPA also recommends that homeowners have the contractor inform the homeowner of what the final lead inspection entails.  If you have any questions or need help to identify the age of your home please contact Schachne Architects & Builders.  We will be glad to assist you.