New Hampshire Contractor Settles Federal Lead Safety Case
A New Hampshire construction company has reached a settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over lead safety violations during an apartment renovation project. The case involving ReArch Company highlights the serious federal rules that protect families from lead paint hazards during home improvement work.
New Hampshire has one of the oldest housing stocks in the nation. Many homes and apartment buildings were built before 1978, when lead-based paint was banned for residential use. This means renovation projects in the state carry a higher risk of disturbing lead paint and creating dangerous lead dust. MycoTest's state-by-state environmental hazard map shows elevated risk in New Hampshire for exactly this reason.
The EPA's Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule requires contractors working on pre-1978 homes to follow specific lead-safe work practices. These include containing the work area, minimizing dust creation, and cleaning up thoroughly afterward. When contractors skip these steps, they can spread toxic lead dust throughout a home.
Not sure if your home is affected? The DIY Lead Paint Chip Kit gives you certified lab results in days — no inspector needed. Identify lead paint in your home before you renovate →
What the EPA Rules Require
Under federal law, any contractor disturbing more than six square feet of painted surfaces in homes built before 1978 must be EPA-certified and follow lead-safe practices. This applies to:
- Window replacement and repair
- Door and trim work
- Wall demolition or repair
- Exterior painting and siding work
- Kitchen and bathroom renovations
Violations can result in fines of up to $37,500 per day, per violation. The EPA takes these cases seriously because lead exposure is especially harmful to children under six years old. Even small amounts of lead dust can cause learning disabilities, behavior problems, and other health issues that may not appear until years later.
Why This Matters for New Hampshire Homeowners
New Hampshire's housing stock presents unique challenges. According to census data, a significant portion of the state's homes were built before lead paint was banned. Cities like Manchester, Nashua, and Concord have many older neighborhoods where lead paint is common in window frames, doors, trim, and exterior siding.
If you own or rent a home built before 1978, any renovation work could disturb lead paint. Before hiring a contractor, homeowners should:
- Ask for EPA certification. Legitimate contractors will have RRP certification and can show proof.
- Test for lead first. Knowing whether your home has lead paint helps you plan safer renovations.
- Get it in writing. Your contract should specify that the contractor will follow lead-safe work practices.
- Watch for warning signs. If a contractor does not cover floors, seal off work areas, or clean up dust carefully, they may not be following the rules.
Protecting Your Family During Renovations
The settlement in this New Hampshire case is a reminder that lead safety rules exist for good reason. Lead dust created during renovation is invisible and can settle on floors, furniture, and toys. Children can ingest lead dust by putting their hands in their mouths after touching contaminated surfaces.
Pregnant women are also at higher risk. Lead can cross the placenta and affect fetal development. The CDC states there is no safe level of lead exposure for children.
If you are planning a renovation project in an older home, testing for lead paint before work begins is a smart first step. The MycoTest DIY Lead Paint Chip Kit provides certified lab results so you know exactly what you are dealing with before any dust starts flying.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my New Hampshire home has lead paint?
Homes built before 1978 likely contain lead-based paint, especially on windows, doors, and trim. The only way to know for certain is to test the paint. A DIY lead paint test kit can give you certified lab results without hiring an inspector.
What should I do if my contractor is not following lead-safe practices?
Stop the work and ask the contractor about their EPA certification and lead-safe procedures. If they cannot provide proof of certification or are not following proper containment and cleanup methods, you can report them to the EPA. Document any concerns with photos.
Is lead paint only dangerous during renovation?
Lead paint in good condition is generally not an immediate hazard. However, paint that is chipping, peeling, or chalking can create lead dust that children may ingest. Friction surfaces like windows and doors also create lead dust through normal use. Testing helps you identify problem areas before they become health risks.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. MycoTest DIY kits are screening tools. For confirmed contamination, consult a certified environmental professional.
