Who to Call to Remove Lead Paint

Hire a certified lead abatement contractor to remove or cover lead paint, follow EPA RRP rules, and handle hazardous waste disposal to protect your home

Worker removing exterior lead paint
Jamie Hooper / Adobe Stock Photography
Worker removing exterior lead paint
Jamie Hooper / Adobe Stock Photography
Highlights
  • Lead paint removal is a specialized task handled by certified pros using chemical stripping, abrasive blasting, and HEPA vacuums.

  • Your contract should clearly outline costs, the process, waste disposal, repair methods, and an agreed timeline before work starts.

  • Pricing varies by project scope, selected removal method, and local disposal rules, so always request detailed written estimates from each contractor.

  • Professional removal reduces serious health risks from dust and chips, especially for children and pregnant women.

  • 87% of homes built before 1940 contain lead paint, and more than 24 million U.S. homes have significant hazards.

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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

If you’re wondering who to call to remove lead paint, hire a local lead abatement contractor with EPA certification under the Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule for pre-1978 buildings. These pros remove or cover lead paint, legally dispose of hazardous waste, and reduce exposure risks.

Expect safe techniques such as chemical stripping, abrasive blasting, and HEPA vacuuming, along with proper documentation. If full removal is not possible, they use professional compounds to cover remaining hazards.

Benefits of Hiring a Lead Abatement Contractor to Remove Lead Paint

Hiring a certified lead abatement contractor is the safest path to eliminate or contain lead paint. Pros follow approved methods to control dust, comply with local disposal rules, and protect your home’s finishes. 

DIY removal and paintovers leave hazardous materials behind and can increase exposure. Choose a contractor who documents their work and provides daily progress updates so you can track every step.

Here are some of the top benefits of hiring a pro:

  • Uses chemical stripping safely

  • Performs abrasive blasting when appropriate

  • Captures dust with HEPA vacuums

  • Knows legal disposal rules

  • Holds EPA RRP certification

  • Prevents home surface damage

  • Provides documented daily progress

  • Outlines the process and timeline in the contract

  • Advises when coverage is necessary

  • Reviews work before final payment

If your home was built before 1978 and you suspect lead paint, you might want to consider a lead paint removal pro near you to ensure the job is done safely and in compliance with all regulations.

Can I Hire a Different Pro for Lead Paint Removal?

To safely remove lead paint, you need to hire a local lead abatement contractor. DIY removal and simple paintovers can leave your household at risk. 

If you consider related pros, confirm they hold EPA RRP certification for pre-1978 properties and can legally handle hazardous waste. Ask for documentation, daily reports, and clarity on disposal before agreeing to any work.

How Do Pros Remove Lead Paint?

Pros follow a controlled, documented process to reduce risk and verify results:

  1. Confirm lead presence and scope

  2. Select between chemical stripping and abrasive blasting

  3. Capture dust and particles with HEPA vacuums

  4. Dispose of hazardous waste per local ordinances

  5. Cover remaining hazards with professional compounds if full removal is not possible

  6. Provide daily progress documentation and a final review

  7. Discuss repainting or repairs if offered by the contractor

How Much Does Lead Paint Removal Cost?

The cost to remove lead paint ranges from $1,480 to $5,520 for most homeowners. The final bill depends on factors such as disposal fees, labor rates, and the selected removal method. Quick encapsulation starts at $200, while complete demolition and replacement can run up to $20,000.

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