Historic San Diego County Homeowners Are Leading a Lead-Safe Paint Removal Revolution with EPA-Certified RRP Techniques
In 2025, San Diego County’s historic neighborhoods are experiencing a remarkable transformation as homeowners embrace advanced lead-safe paint removal techniques to preserve their cherished properties while protecting their families’ health. EPA requires that RRP projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities and preschools built before 1978 be performed by lead-safe certified contractors. This requirement has sparked a revolution in how historic home renovations are approached throughout the region.
The Growing Need for RRP-Certified Services in San Diego County
San Diego features a large housing stock built before 1979, where lead-based paint is presumed present unless testing proves otherwise. With many of the county’s most beautiful historic neighborhoods containing homes from the early to mid-20th century, the demand for certified lead-safe renovation services has never been higher. In San Diego County between 2017 and 2021, 231 children under the age of six received services from the San Diego County Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP) due to lead poisoning.
The health risks associated with lead exposure are particularly concerning for families with young children. Even small levels of lead in a child’s blood can cause permanent damage including developmental, health and behavioral problems. This reality has motivated homeowners to seek professional painting San Diego County, CA services that prioritize safety alongside aesthetic improvements.
Understanding RRP Certification Requirements
The Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) rule represents a comprehensive approach to lead-safe work practices. The EPA has ruled that contractors, painters, landlords, or anyone who performs renovation, repairs, or painting (RRP) work for hire on target housing or child-occupied facilities must train and be certified in lead-safe work practices before renovating certain projects.
Professional certification involves rigorous training and ongoing compliance requirements. Firm’s employees must be trained in the use of lead-safe work practices by taking an EPA approved 8 hour training course in order to obtain certification and become a “certified renovator”. Certification is valid for five years, after which a refresher course must be taken to renew the completion certificate.
Advanced Work Practices Protecting San Diego Families
Modern RRP-certified techniques go far beyond traditional painting methods. During activities subject to the RRP rule, contractors must encapsulate work areas using polyethylene sheeting, follow approved work practices that control dust creation, and thoroughly clean work areas once activities are complete. These containment procedures ensure that dangerous lead dust doesn’t spread throughout the home during renovation work.
Professional contractors also utilize sophisticated testing methods to identify lead hazards before work begins. Rarefied Air Environmental utilizes the latest XRF technology on every lead-based paint inspection. Results are instantaneous, and you will know at the time of inspection if lead-based paints are present within the home.
San Diego’s Proactive Lead Abatement Programs
The City of San Diego has taken unprecedented steps to support homeowners in addressing lead hazards. Lead paint is the primary source of childhood lead poisoning, and thanks to a multi-million-dollar legal settlement with three paint companies, the service to remove toxic lead hazards – a process called abatement – is available for little or no cost to those who qualify. Homeowners in San Diego city limits can now apply for lead abatement services through the City of San Diego’s new San Diego Residential Lead Abatement Program (SDRLAP).
Additionally, The ordinance was revised in 2025, and the effective start date for the ordinance was February 22, 2025. This ordinance was developed with the primary purpose to eliminate lead hazards and prevent lead poisoning through lead-safe housing and ensuring lead-safe work practices.
The Financial Reality of Professional Lead-Safe Services
While RRP-certified services require specialized training and equipment, the investment protects both property values and family health. Professional lead paint removal in San Diego can cost $8 to $15 per square foot. If you have an old home that has been built before 1970s, expect to spend around $9,600 to $30,000 for a 1,200 to 20,000 square foot house.
The consequences of non-compliance with lead safety regulations can be severe. The EPA has the authority to impose fines exceeding $37,500 per violation per day. In recent years, numerous companies and individuals have faced fines ranging from $1,000 to $500,000 for non-compliance.
Choosing the Right RRP-Certified Contractor
When selecting a painting contractor for historic home projects, homeowners should verify several key qualifications. Federal law requires all renovation, repair, and painting firms (including sole proprietorships) working in housing, or facilities where children are routinely present, built before 1978, to be certified. Firm certification is a key requirement to ensure the training of individuals and the use of lead-safe work practices.
Professional contractors must also provide proper documentation and education to homeowners. Contractors are required to provide property owners and building occupants with the EPA pamphlet “Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Providers, and Schools” prior to the start of any project subject to the RRP. Proof of pamphlet distribution must also be documented.
The lead-safe paint removal revolution in San Diego County represents more than just regulatory compliance—it’s about preserving the character and beauty of historic neighborhoods while ensuring the safety of current and future generations. As 2025 progresses, homeowners who invest in RRP-certified services are not only protecting their families but also contributing to the broader effort to eliminate childhood lead poisoning in their communities. With proper certification, advanced techniques, and ongoing commitment to safety, San Diego County’s historic homes can continue to be cherished family residences for generations to come.