North CarolinaLead Paint RRP Certification Requirements

The EPA Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule requires that renovations disturbing more than 6 sq ft of interior or 20 sq ft of exterior lead-based paint in pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities be performed by certified renovators working for certified firms. Work must follow specific containment, cleanup, and verification procedures.

Additional Requirements

North Carolina requires state accreditation for RRP firms and individuals through NCDHHS (Health Hazards Control Unit). EPA certification does not apply; applicants must go directly to the NC state program.

North Carolina is an EPA-authorized state and runs its own lead RRP program. Firms and individuals must meet both federal EPA requirements and any additional state-specific requirements. Contact North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services for current details.

Accredited Training Providers

• •EPA-accredited training providers (searchable at epa.gov/lead)
• •Community colleges and trade schools with EPA accreditation
• •Private training companies with EPA or state accreditation
• •Paint and coating manufacturer training programs

Individual renovator certification is obtained by completing an EPA-accredited 8-hour initial training course that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice. The course covers lead-safe work practices, containment, cleanup, and cleaning verification. A 4-hour refresher course is required every 5 years to maintain certification.

Individual Refresher Requirements

4-hour EPA-accredited refresher course required every 5 years to maintain individual certification

Regulatory Board

Firm certification must be renewed every 5 years with a $550 fee. Individual renovators must complete a 4-hour refresher course every 5 years to maintain their certification. If the refresher is not completed before the 5-year expiration, the individual must retake the full 8-hour initial course.

Common Violations

• •Performing renovation work without firm certification
• •Using uncertified renovators on lead paint projects
• •Failure to provide the EPA 'Renovate Right' pamphlet to occupants
• •Inadequate containment of work area
• •Failure to use required work practices (wet methods, HEPA vacuums)
• •Improper cleanup and cleaning verification
• •Failure to maintain required records for 3 years
• •Working on pre-1978 housing without testing or assuming lead presence

The EPA actively enforces the RRP Rule through inspections, tip investigations, and compliance monitoring. Penalties can be assessed per day per violation and may be adjusted for factors including the nature of the violation, the violator's ability to pay, and any history of prior violations.