Lead-Safe (RRP) Certification for HVAC & Trades

Mechanical trades are often surprised to learn the RRP Rule can apply to them. Cutting into walls for ductwork, running new lines, mounting equipment, or making penetrations in a pre-1978 home disturbs painted surfaces, and several small openings can add up past the six-square-foot threshold on a single job.

If your work in older homes disturbs paint, your firm is expected to be Lead-Safe certified. We file the EPA or state firm certification for you, $429 all in for EPA-administered states, valid five years, no Social Security number required.

Why the RRP Rule applies to hvac, plumbing & electrical

Penetrations disturb paintCutting into painted walls and ceilings for ducts, lines, or equipment is regulated activity in pre-1978 homes.
Small openings add upSeveral access holes on one job can exceed the six-square-foot interior threshold.
Compensated work countsAny firm paid to do this work in target housing is expected to be certified, including small shops and sole proprietors.
Cheap insuranceA one-time $429 certification is trivial against penalties that reach up to $49,772 per violation, per day.

Frequently asked questions

Does the RRP Rule apply to HVAC, plumbing, or electrical work?

It can. If your work in pre-1978 housing or child-occupied facilities disturbs more than six square feet of interior paint, the rule applies even though your trade is not "renovation" in the everyday sense. Cutting into painted walls is a common trigger.

What if each job only disturbs a little paint?

The threshold is per job, and multiple small penetrations add up. There are narrow minor-repair exceptions, but they are easy to exceed, so the safe assumption for older homes is that certification is required.

What does it cost for a trade business?

$429 all in for EPA-administered states: a $129 service fee plus the $300 EPA fee, valid five years. We never ask for a Social Security number.

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Lead-Safe certification for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical.