This type of painting job requires a specific set of skills that’s a must have for all lead paint certified contractors. Sadly, not all contractors are better equipped to perform this service. Most projects that require paint in pre-1978 homes require the expertise of a certified lead painter.
Thankfully, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of hiring the right painter with the right skill set to get your job done. Choosing a certified contractor is a great step in the right direction but it requires more than certification to get that conviction that they can do it.
Below are some of the things you need to know before hiring a contractor
1. Hire only lead paint certified contractors.
You can look up the name of the company online to dig out more information. Upon physical meeting with the contractor, ask the contractor to prove the site’s supervisor’s certification card. One important thing to do is to check the seal.
2. Research the company
Visit the company’s website to read more about them. Check to see if they clearly state that they work lead safe. While some contractors take lead safety seriously, others see the regulation only as a burden
3. Schedule a physical meeting with the contractor
Before hiring lead paint certified contractors for your job, you want to make sure you meet with them when they come to assess the paint job. Pay attention to how they respond to your questions. Ask them how they intend to contain all the dust, debris and other work hazard associated with this type of job. How do they intend to protect your property and family? If you are not convinced, there is absolutely no harm in looking elsewhere.
Some of the questions to ask include
How will you prepare the painted surfaces?
How do you intend to keep the workspace clean?
Do you have a HEPA vacuum cleaner?
What are the steps taken to protect workers on-site?
Are they familiar with the cleaning verification process?
4. Years of Experience
Experience matters when it comes to lead paint. How long has the company been in business? Request that they send you a list of former clients so you can reach out to them for more detailed information. Make sure the projects completed are similar to what you have planned. It is also very useful to ask for the address of any current jobs in progress. If you are lucky enough, you might hire a contractor who’s handling another project elsewhere. Visit the site to have an idea of what to expect when you eventually hire them. This will also help you determine if they are lead certified or not.
5. License
In addition to certifications, all lead paint contractors are required to be licensed. Ask them if they are licensed to perform lead safe project. Luckily there are many online resources that can help you determine if the license is in good standing.