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Industry urges Congress to delay renovation rule

2/20/2018

It's too soon to roll out EPA rules on repair and paint of pre-1978 homes, according to a large swath of the home improvement industry.

The National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association (NLBMDA), National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), Home Depot and Lowe's are among the players urging a delay in the Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule.

The rule calls for the renovation of homes built before 1978 to follow lead safety practices supervised by an EPA-certified renovator, and performed by an EPA-certified renovation company. Not only will the rule disrupt plans for energy efficiency spending, there aren't enough accredited trainers, the letter states.

In a letter to key senators March 8, a dozen industry groups warned against the implementation of the rule. "As manufacturers, distributors, retailers and installers of new construction materials, we support efforts to ensure that home renovations in pre-1978 homes are conducted in accordance with EPA’s LRRP requirements," the letter said. "Unfortunately, based on EPA compliance-needs estimates, we do not believe EPA is prepared to adequately implement the LRRP. Further, if implemented now, the LRRP will negatively affect economic stimulus funding designated for housing weatherization and planned efforts for a national residential retrofit program."

The letter can be read in its entirety here.

In addition to the four groups mentioned above, signatories were the Window and Door Manufacturers Association; Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association; Window and Door Dealers Alliance; Manufactured Housing Institute; National Association of the Remodeling Institute; Vinyl Siding Institute; and Independent Electrical Contractors.

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