Portland Metro Service
Lead-Safe Painting for Pre-1978 Homes Across the Portland Metro Area
Many older homes in Portland, Gresham, Milwaukie, Oregon City, and across the metro area were painted with lead-based paint before 1978. Federal Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) rules require EPA-certified painters to use specific containment, cleaning, and disposal practices any time painted surfaces are disturbed.
Get Free QuotesProject types
- • Lead-safe exterior repaint on pre-1978 homes
- • Window and door trim removal and repaint
- • Stabilizing peeling exterior paint
- • Lead-safe interior work in older bungalows and Victorians
- • EPA RRP-compliant remodeling-adjacent paint work
What affects the cost
Containment and cleanup
Lead-safe work requires plastic sheeting, HEPA vacuums, and certified disposal. This is built into the bid.
Scraping and stabilization scope
Peeling lead paint must be stabilized before recoating. Areas with extensive failure cost more to prep.
Hand-scraping vs. mechanical removal
Mechanical methods are restricted under RRP rules. Hand-scraping is slower but compliant.
Disposal
Painted chips and waste must be bagged, sealed, and disposed of properly. This adds to the line item.
What to ask painters
- • Are you EPA RRP-certified, and can you show me your certification?
- • How do you contain dust during scraping?
- • How do you dispose of paint chips and waste?
- • Do you provide the EPA "Renovate Right" pamphlet?
- • Can you provide a written project plan that meets RRP requirements?
FAQs
Does every pre-1978 paint job require an RRP-certified painter?
If the work disturbs painted surfaces in a home, child-occupied facility, or pre-1978 building, federal RRP rules apply. Confirm with the painter and your local jurisdiction.
How do I know if my Portland metro home has lead paint?
Lead test kits sold at hardware stores provide a quick screen. A certified lead inspector can do definitive testing. Many older homes test positive on exterior trim and window sashes.
Is lead-safe paint work more expensive?
Yes, often meaningfully so because of the prep, containment, and disposal requirements. The cost protects your family and the painter's crew.
Get lead-safe painting (pre-1978) quotes in your city