The Hazardous Housing Renovation Official Portal mandates that renovations in pre-1978 homes with lead-based paint or asbestos-containing materials (ACM) must follow strict lead-safe and asbestos-handling protocols. Renovators must be certified through the EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (LRRP) Rule and follow specific safety measures, including enclosing work areas, using HEPA vacuums, and providing proper training. Documentation of compliance, such as post-renovation air testing, is required to ensure safety standards are met.

The portal’s requirements are critical to preventing lead poisoning and respiratory hazards. According to the CDC, lead exposure causes 4.5 million U.S. children to have elevated blood lead levels, contributing to developmental delays and chronic health issues. Since 1990, the EPA’s lead-safe practices have reduced childhood lead poisoning by 95%, with certified renovators playing a key role. Asbestos exposure, linked to mesothelioma and lung cancer, affects approximately 3,000 Americans annually. The portal’s mandates ensure that ACM is safely removed or contained, reducing airborne fibers. For example, a 2021 EPA study found that homes undergoing certified asbestos removal saw a 90% reduction in fiber levels compared to non-compliant projects. Over 100,000 professionals are EPA-certified, reflecting the portal’s emphasis on trained labor. Compliance also avoids legal penalties, which average $37,500 per violation for lead violations alone. By enforcing these standards, the portal protects public health, ensures regulatory adherence, and promotes safer housing environments.