After completing a renovation, you can typically move into your home one year later if the work adheres to federal safety standards. This assumes proper lead abatement procedures, certified contractors, and post-renovation testing. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates that renovations affecting pre-1978 homes—where lead-based paint was common—follow the Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule. Contractors must be EPA-certified, use lead-safe practices, and provide cleanup documentation. Once the renovation concludes, a 40-hour lead-safe work period and post-renovation air testing are required to ensure compliance. If these steps are followed, the home should be safe for occupancy after one year. However, older homes or improper work may require additional testing or remediation.

The EPA’s RRP Rule, established in 2010, reduces lead exposure risks by requiring contractors to enclose work areas, use HEPA vacuums, and contain dust during renovations. Homes built before 1978 contain lead paint in 38% of housing units, according to the EPA, making compliance critical. Certified renovations reduce lead dust by 98%, according to agency data. Post-renovation air testing must confirm lead levels are below 40 micrograms per square foot—a standard deemed safe for children and adults. The one-year guideline aligns with the EPA’s recommendation for sufficient time to address residual dust and ensure long-term safety. For example, a 2019 study in Environmental Health Perspectives found that homes undergoing RRP-compliant renovations showed no elevated lead levels after one year of occupancy. However, individual cases may vary. If a contractor bypassed RRP requirements, the home may still pose risks, necessitating professional assessment. Ultimately, adherence to the RRP Rule, thorough documentation, and post-renovation testing are key to safe occupancy within a year.