If you’re a contractor, renovator, landlord, or property manager in New England, getting lead paint certified is essential for compliance with federal and state laws. Without proper certification, you risk hefty fines and potential legal action. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming lead paint certified in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Maine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: In addition to the individual training requirements this article addresses, IN ALL CASES, YOU MUST ALSO LICENSE/CERTIFY YOUR FIRM WITH THE AGENCY HAVING JURISDICTION (AHJ)
Why Do You Need Lead Paint Certification?
Many homes and buildings constructed before 1978 contain lead-based paint, which poses serious health risks—especially to children and pregnant women. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and individual states require professionals working on these properties to be trained and certified under the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule.
Certification ensures you know how to safely handle lead paint, minimizing exposure risks and protecting both your workers and clients.
Step 1: Determine If You Need Certification
If you work on properties built before 1978 and disturb more than six square feet of painted surface per room (interior), you must be certified. This applies to:
- General contractors
- Painters
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Property managers
- Landlords performing their own renovations
- Anyone else who creates dust
Failure to comply can result in fines so it’s crucial to get certified if you meet the criteria.
Step 2: Enroll in an EPA- or State-Approved Lead Paint Certification Course
To get certified, you must complete an 8-hour EPA or LSR training class. LeadSMART Training offers classes across Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Maine, making it easy to find a session near you.
During the course, you’ll learn:
- The dangers of lead exposure
- Proper containment and cleanup techniques
- How to minimize lead dust during renovations
- State-specific lead regulations
At the end of the course, you’ll take a written test to demonstrate your knowledge.
Step 3: Receive Your Lead Paint Certification
Upon passing the course, you’ll receive an RRP or LSR certification valid for five years. This allows you to legally work on pre-1978 properties in compliance with EPA and state regulations.
Step 4: Keep Up with Certification Renewal
Your lead paint certification is only valid for five years. To maintain compliance, you must take a lead paint refresher course before it expires.
If you let your certification expire, you’ll need to retake the full 8-hour course, so mark your calendar for renewal well in advance.
Why Choose LeadSMART Training for Your Certification?
At LeadSMART Training, we make getting lead paint certified simple and convenient with:
- In-person initial and in-person as well as virtual refresher training options in multiple New England locations
- Expert instructors with real-world experience
- Fast certification processing so you can get to work quickly
- State-specific guidance to help you navigate local regulations
Don’t put your business at risk—get certified today!
👉 View upcoming Lead Paint Certification Classes
Final Thoughts
Getting lead paint certified in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Maine is not just a legal requirement—it’s a way to protect your business and the people you serve. By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure compliance, avoid costly fines, and provide safer renovations for your clients.
Need more details? Contact LeadSMART Training today to register for a class!