How to Become a Lead Abatement Contractor

Although lead is no longer used in building materials, many older structures may still contain paint and other items that contain lead. Leaving lead paint undisturbed keeps occupants safe. However, lead is poisonous and contractors managing the abatement of lead from a home, business or other structure must be certified to manage the removal. Becoming a certified firm that removes lead from a home is different than being certified and trained to renovate, repair or paint a lead surface.

Instructions

1. Visit the EPA website for links to the appropriate certification agency for your state. Not all states have their own abatement certification program. Some states may use the EPA certification process to qualify its contractors. The EPA provides links to each state's required program. (See Resources.)

2. Obtain information on your state's certification process. Be sure you are asking for a lead abatement firm (contractor) certification application. State programs are more detailed than the federal certification program and can include a wide variety of job roles. For example, Texas includes certification applications for lead supervisors, lead workers and lead inspectors in addition to a certification for a contractor or firm.

3. Complete a certification application and pay the appropriate fees. States using the EPA process will fill out a single application for both the renovation, repair and paint certification and the abatement, risk assessment and inspection certification. The EPA program fees begin at $550 for an abatement certification. States with their own lead programs may have separate applications for each type of certification, and fees can vary substantially. For example, Texas charges a firm $1,030 for certification and Illinois charges $500 per contractor application.

4. Make sure you and your employees are properly trained. Part of every contractor certification is the agreement that all workers used by the company for abatement purposes will be trained in lead safe work practices. Accredited lead safe work practices training programs are offered across the United States. The EPA offers a search tool to locate one near you. You will need a ZIP code or the name of a city and state to conduct the search. The National Lead Information Center can also provide the location of an accredited training program through its Lead Hotline. (See Resources.)

5. Renew the certification as required. The EPA program requires abatement contractors to renew every three years and pay a fee of $550. State renewal requirements will vary. For example, Texas firms must renew every two years and pay $1,030 at every renewal date. Illinois firms must renew annually at a cost of $500 each year.

Tips & Warnings

• Employees with training from accredited lead education programs may be required to take a refresher course if the training is not current.

• Firms are not usually required to take an exam. However, the employees may be tested before receiving certification.

References

• EPA: Lead Abatement Professionals
• EPA: Application and Instructions for Firms Applying for Certification to Conduct Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovations
• Texas Department of State Health Services: Applications and Forms -- Environmental Lead Program --- Certification --- Initial and Renewal
• Illinois Department of Public Health: Application for Lead Contractor License

Resources

• EPA: Locate Accredited Lead Training Programs
• EPA: Lead Hotline