Bismarck, ND — North Dakota is taking steps to protect homeowners from lead exposure during home renovations. The state is working to increase the number of lead-safe certified contractors available to work on older homes. This effort aims to help families stay safe when fixing up houses built before 1978.
Why Lead-Safe Certification Matters
Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint. When contractors sand, scrape, or disturb old paint during renovations, tiny lead particles can spread throughout the home. These particles settle on floors, windowsills, and other surfaces where families live and children play.
The EPA requires contractors who work on pre-1978 homes to follow specific lead-safe work practices. They must be certified and use methods that contain dust and debris. However, many areas lack enough certified contractors to meet demand. North Dakota is addressing this gap by training more workers in proper techniques.
Not sure if your home is affected? The DIY Lead Paint Chip Kit gives you certified, accredited-lab results in days — no inspector needed. Simple DIY sampling, mailed to a lab, clear results you can trust.
Shop the kit — $35North Dakota's Older Housing Stock
North Dakota has many older homes, especially in rural areas. Small towns across the state have housing that dates back decades. Many of these homes have never been tested for lead paint. When families decide to renovate, they may not realize the risks hiding beneath layers of old paint.
MycoTest's state-by-state environmental hazard map shows elevated risk in North Dakota. The state's older rural housing stock means many properties could contain lead-based paint that poses a risk during renovation work.
What Homeowners Should Know
If you own a home built before 1978 and plan to renovate, there are important steps to take:
- Test before you renovate. Knowing whether lead paint is present helps you plan the safest approach to your project.
- Hire certified contractors. Ask contractors if they hold EPA lead-safe certification before hiring them for work that disturbs painted surfaces.
- Keep children away from work areas. Young children are most vulnerable to lead exposure. Keep them out of renovation zones until cleanup is complete.
- Clean thoroughly. After any renovation work, wet-mop floors and wipe down surfaces to remove settled dust.
The Importance of Testing
Many homeowners assume their home is safe because the paint looks fine. However, lead paint is often covered by newer layers. It only becomes dangerous when disturbed. A simple test can tell you whether lead is present before you start any project.
Testing paint chips from suspect areas gives you clear answers. You collect a small sample from the painted surface and send it to an accredited laboratory. Results tell you exactly what you are dealing with, so you can make informed decisions about your renovation plans.
Protecting Your Family
Lead exposure is a serious concern, especially for young children. The CDC and EPA both emphasize the importance of preventing exposure before it happens. Testing your home is one of the most effective ways to understand your risk.
For North Dakota homeowners planning renovations, knowing whether lead paint is present can guide every decision. It helps you choose the right contractor, plan the right approach, and protect your family throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my North Dakota home has lead paint?
Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint. The only way to know for certain is to test. You can collect a paint chip sample and send it to an accredited lab for analysis. This gives you definitive results about whether lead is present.
Do I need a certified contractor for small renovation projects?
The EPA's Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule requires certified contractors for work that disturbs more than six square feet of painted surfaces in homes built before 1978. Even small projects can create lead dust, so testing before any work helps you understand your risk.
What should I do if I find lead paint in my home?
Finding lead paint does not mean you must remove it immediately. Lead paint in good condition that is not peeling or chipping poses less risk. If you plan to renovate or if paint is deteriorating, hire an EPA-certified contractor who follows lead-safe work practices to minimize dust and exposure.
Before starting any renovation on an older North Dakota home, consider testing for lead paint. The DIY Lead Paint Chip Kit from MycoTest lets you collect a sample yourself and get certified lab results. At just $35, it provides the answers you need to protect your family during your renovation project.
Related reading
- Houston Offers Free Lead Paint Help for Older Homes
- Why EPA Lead-Safe Certification Matters for Your Home Renovation
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.