New EPA lead renovaton rule due 4/22/10 a “Hot Potato” according to NARI
Filed under: Homeowner Information, News and Notes, Remodeling, Remodeling Industry
NARI President William E. Carter, MCR, CKBR, UDCR, and incoming Government Affairs Committee Chairman David Merrick, MCR, UDCR, spent Thurs., March 18 on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC to request a delay on the implementation of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (LRRP) Rule. NARI leaders met officials from the EPA, the Office of Management and Budget, as well as key senate leaders of the Energy Committee and Environmental and Public Works Committee.
Consistent with NARI’s core purpose to advance the remodeling industry’s vital public purpose, protecting the safety, welfare and housing of homeowners is included. Thus, NARI supports the EPA in its effort to protect the public from the hazards of lead poisoning. There is serious concern, however, that the remodeling industry is not nor can be prepared for an implementation date of April 22, 2010. The request for delay was made based on the following:
* The number of trainers is insufficient to certify the agency’s very conservative estimate of 200,000 contractors required.
* Only 14,000 individuals have been certified to date, and seven states reportedly have no trainers.
* The opt-out provision is a significant component of the rule and is under continuing review.
* The EPA has not commenced its planned public awareness campaign; the general public and the majority of contractors are not even aware of the rule.
“Issues like this which affect the remodeling industry and our members cause NARI to become more involved in the government arena” Carter said. “The government does not understand our industry and we must enable that understanding. The leaders with whom we met were receptive and keenly interested. We are hopeful that these key visits will result in a meaningful and necessary relief.”
Until the EPA or Federal government officially announces a delay of the LRRP rule, NARI members who work on homes built prior to 1978 must become certified by the April 22, 2010 deadline. Right now, there is no other alternative.
NARI Chapters are holding training sessions, and members can find additional information on all EPA LRRP-related information at www.nari.org/leadsafety. NARI will remain active on this issue, and continue to keep members informed of developments.
Home Remodeling Information
Every homeowner usually undertakes one home remodeling plan in their lifetime. Stains, ugly wallpaper, cracked or nasty linoleum floors may be a few of the various reasons behind remodeling the house. Mainly professional home remodelers deal with the bathroom and kitchen. This may not be necessary and you have to decide which parts of the home need to be remodeled. You may also choose what you want to remodel in the house. Especially when home remodeling involves various aspects.
The ideas which develop your class of life are the ones which are considered best. That is why kitchens and bathrooms are considered to be some of the most important parts of the house where remodeling should be done. Remodeling not only makes the home look better but it also causes an increase in home value. However, most people will need a specialist in when extensive remodeling is required for your home
The various aspects in which a home specialist will guide you are electrical systems, construction, design, plumbing and decorating. All the processes will be done under their supervision. There are various qualities that are found in home remodelers. These people work closely with plumbers, electricians and contractors to make sure the job is done right. The various questions that arise in your mind, like how to prevent unanticipated problems, questions about colors, products and designs are answered by these specialists. They are also able to create designs which reflect your dream home remodeling project. A remodeler can also advise you on the best return on investment ideas and also offer attractive home remodeling ideas.
But before hiring any home specialist it is recommended that you meet them in person before offering them the project. This will help you to talk about your home project and you can also see some of their work. There are various things that are suggested before remodeling the house. First, you can collect and clip photographs of the various homes that appeal to you. This will give the remodeler and architect a better idea about what you want in your home. You should also evaluate the features and layout of your current home to find out what may work or not for your home.
Your home will be visited by the remodeler or specialist so that he can take precise measurements. The specialist may also question you about what type of home renovations you like and what style suits you the best. After that, a plan will be provided to you about the design, specifications and material costs involved. A payment schedule will be arranged once you approve the design and set the budget of the project.
It can take two weeks to several months to complete a home remodeling project. Although living in the home which is under renovation is difficult, it is worth it once your home is done. Not only will its style and functionality greatly improve, it will also be your very own work of art!
