Lead paint is a serious toxin that's present in many older homes. According to Comfy Living, about 50% of the homes in the United States were built before 1980, many of which were painted with lead paint. Renovations, repairs, or repainting in older homes can disturb lead-based paint, releasing hazardous lead dust and chips into the air. Lead paint repair can take care of the problem. You should ask the lead paint repair company the following questions before you hire them to begin the process.

1. What Is My Responsibility?

Make no mistake, lead paint repair can generate plenty of dust and debris. It's essential that you understand what steps you need to take to protect the goods in your home. Will you need to remove items? Will the company take steps to protect those items? Can you remain in the house while the work is being done?

You will want to get clear instructions for navigating the project and what parts of the project you will be responsible for. It's also a good time to ask about insurance and licensing. Insurance is a must to protect your property while the work is being done. Be sure to only hire a company that's licensed and insured in order to protect yourself from the costs associated with any accident or mistake made during the repair process.

2. How Long Will the Project Take?

Once you have clarity on what your responsibilities are, it's important that you get your property inspected to learn about the cost and the timeline associated with the repair process. If you and your family must temporarily relocate until the problem is remediated, time is of the essence. Ask about the prep time, the work time, and how long before a follow-up post-abatement inspection. It's important that you have accurate time expectations for the project for your own planning purposes. When you're in need of these repair services, it's essential to work with a company that's locally owned so you can be certain that the project is a top priority and it will be handled as quickly as possible.

3. Which Method of Lead Paint Repair Will You Use?

There are different ways of making repairs for lead paint. The professional's method will be determined by the extent of the lead paint in the home, the budget allowance, and the hazard level. Depending on the size of the work the project may fall under the EPA's Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule (RRP Rule). Failure to comply with this rule could result in hefty fines and other penalties.

It's important that you understand the process. The right contractor will explain in detail how the process they plan to use. A better understanding of the process can help you feel more confident in hiring a company that's able to complete the work the right way. To begin learning about the process, request a call back from a local lead inspection and repair company.

4. How Do You Clean Up the Dust and Debris?

Because of the toxicity associated with lead paint dust and debris, it's essential that the clean-up process is done right. A professional lead paint repair company should have the proper tools and equipment to clean up lead paint dust and debris. The company should be a combination of wet and dry-cleaning techniques, including using a HEPA vacuum cleaner. Clean-up techniques should follow the guidelines of the Environmental Protection Agency. In order to ensure this work can be completed without breaking the bank, be sure to hire a company the guarantees competitive pricing.

5. What Safety Precautions Do You Take?

Lead paint is a serious health risk. Ask about which safety precautions the provider takes to protect everyone's health. For example, containment barriers can be used to ensure that the dust and debris do not enter other rooms that don't need remediation. It's important that preventive steps are taken to contain the mess.

One of the riskiest times dealing with lead paint is when it's being disturbed. It's essential that the provider uses the proper safety equipment to protect their workers. Hire a company with decades of experience to guarantee that the proper safety measures will be taken during the repair process.

You must gather as much information as possible about the project before hiring a company for lead paint repair. Be sure to have all of your questions prepared prior to calling local companies so you can be certain that you're able to find the right one to handle the job. If you're looking for a company you can depend upon, call ASAP Environmental Inc today.