What Is the RRP Rule?

The EPA's Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule is a federal regulation that requires contractors performing renovation, repair, or painting work in pre-1978 homes and child-occupied facilities to follow specific lead-safe work practices. The rule was established to prevent the spread of hazardous lead dust during common renovation activities — activities that, if performed carelessly, can contaminate an entire home.

The RRP Rule applies to work that disturbs paint in homes and facilities where children under age 6 are present or likely to be present, including houses, apartments, and child-care facilities.

Who Does the RRP Rule Apply To?

The rule applies to any contractor, subcontractor, or other individual paid to perform renovation work in covered buildings. This includes:

  • General contractors and remodelers
  • Painters and decorators
  • Electricians and plumbers (when their work disturbs painted surfaces)
  • Handyman services
  • Window replacement companies
  • Property managers who hire workers to perform such work

Note: The RRP Rule does not apply to homeowners doing their own work on their own home — but lead-safe work practices are still strongly recommended for personal safety.

Key Requirements Under the RRP Rule

1. Firm Certification

Any company performing covered renovation work must be certified by the EPA (or by an EPA-authorized state program). Certification must be renewed every five years.

2. Renovator Certification and Training

At least one certified renovator must be assigned to each job. This individual must complete an EPA-approved eight-hour training course and follow lead-safe work practices throughout the project.

3. Pre-Renovation Education

Before beginning work, contractors must provide homeowners or building occupants with the EPA's Renovate Right pamphlet, which explains lead hazards and the firm's obligations.

4. Lead-Safe Work Practices

The rule mandates specific work practices to contain and minimize lead dust, including:

  • Containing the work area with plastic sheeting
  • Posting warning signs and restricting occupant access
  • Minimizing dust generation (e.g., no dry sanding, no open-flame burning of paint)
  • Cleaning up thoroughly using HEPA vacuums and wet cleaning methods
  • Disposing of waste according to applicable regulations

5. Recordkeeping

Certified firms must maintain records of their compliance with the RRP Rule for at least three years. This includes signed acknowledgment forms from occupants and documentation of the work practices used.

What Is a "Covered Renovation"?

The RRP Rule is triggered when renovation work disturbs more than six square feet of painted surface per room indoors, or more than 20 square feet of painted surface outdoors. Work that disturbs less than these thresholds may still be subject to the rule in certain circumstances, particularly in child-care facilities.

State-Run Programs

Many states have their own EPA-authorized lead programs that may have additional or different requirements. If you live in a state with an authorized program, contractors must comply with state rules rather than (or in addition to) the federal RRP Rule. States with authorized programs include California, Massachusetts, North Carolina, and others. Always verify requirements with your state environmental or housing agency.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The EPA takes RRP Rule violations seriously. Penalties for non-compliance can be substantial — the EPA has authority to assess civil penalties on a per-violation, per-day basis. In addition to financial penalties, contractors found in violation may lose their certification, affecting their ability to work on any covered projects.

Homeowners who hire uncertified contractors are not directly liable under the federal RRP Rule, but they bear the risk of having unsafe work performed in their homes. Always verify contractor certification before work begins.

How to Verify a Contractor's Certification

Before hiring a contractor for work in a pre-1978 home, ask to see their EPA RRP certification documentation. You can also contact your state lead program or the EPA to verify certification status. A legitimate certified contractor will have no hesitation in providing this information.