When renovating an old house, chipping off walls is not universally required. It depends on the materials used and potential hazards. If walls contain lead-based paint (common in homes built before 1978) or asbestos (prevailing in insulation, popcorn ceilings, and popcorn textures before 1977), professional removal is mandatory. For non-hazardous materials like intact paint or solid wood, sanding or chemical stripping may suffice.

Safety regulations, such as the EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule (LRRP), mandate that contractors handling pre-1978 homes are certified to prevent lead dust exposure. A 2021 EPA report found that improper lead removal can release particles linked to developmental delays and chronic illnesses. Similarly, asbestos exposure accounts for 3,000 annual U.S. deaths, per the Asbestos Trust Fund. Removing these materials without expertise risks health crises and legal penalties. Costs range from $500 to $2,000 for small areas, rising with complexity. For non-hazardous walls, preservation techniques like drywall repair or repainting reduce expenses by up to 40%. Consulting a licensed abatement contractor ensures compliance and minimizes risks, making targeted removal—rather than blanket chipping—ideal for most renovations.