The government banned the usage of lead paint in 1978. However, before then, lead paint was commonly used in homes. 87% of homes built before 1940 and 24% of homes built between 1960 and 1978 have some lead-based paint, according to the EPA. Lead paint, when inhaled or consumed in dust or chips, can cause a range of ailments, especially in children under six. Becoming a certified lead paint inspector or risk assessor provides a valuable service to homeowners. Protecting your business with lead paint home inspection insurance is crucial.
Lead Paint Home Inspection Insurance
How to Inspect for Lead Paint?
Even though there are lead paint testing kits that homeowners can purchase, they can be unreliable. The EPA recommends that certified lead inspectors perform the testing. They use a special tool called an X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) lead paint analyzer to test for the presence of lead-based paint. This equipment, used in tandem with an EPA/HUD-approved XRF Performance Characteristic Sheet (PCS), includes information about the ranges and uses of the device. The EPA/ HUD standard for lead is equal to or greater than 1.0 mg/ cm2. There are strict protocols and reporting required by the EPA, HUD, and state programs which you must know to perform lead paint inspections. Being informed and getting lead paint home inspection insurance will help protect you if the presence of lead paint in a home you inspected causes you to be sued.
What are the Dangers of Lead Paint in a Home?
Failing to detect lead-based paint in homes can lead to serious health problems for homeowners and their families. Among the ailments caused by lead-based paint are:
- Delays in learning and cognitive difficulties
- Behavioral problems
- Poor muscle coordination and balance
- Seizures and convulsions
- Headaches
- Reproductive system impairment
- Joint and muscle pain
- Coma
- Death
Children are especially vulnerable to lead-based paint damages because their bodies absorb more lead. They tend to put objects in their mouths, and unfortunately, those objects could be coated in lead dust. Your services can protect this vulnerable population. We strongly recommend that you get lead paint home inspection insurance, so you are covered in the case of errors or omissions.
What Skills or Certifications do you Need to Perform Lead-based Paint Inspections?
Many states have EPA-authorized inspection certification programs, including varying requirements to become a certified lead paint inspector or risk assessor. In states where there is no such program, the inspector must be certified by the EPA. The EPA website includes information and links on finding the requirements for your state. Generally speaking, becoming a certified lead paint inspector typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of an accredited training program. You will need to learn how to use and understand the equipment’s readings and generate and file the appropriate inspection reports and risk assessments. EliteMGA provides lead paint home inspection insurance and has resources to guide you if you choose to become a certified lead paint inspector or risk assessor.
Get Covered with Lead Paint Home Inspection Insurance
You may think you did everything right with your home or lead paint inspection and still be sued for lead-based paint-related damages. State and federal laws differ and require specific procedures and reporting. There can be problems with equipment, reporting, or other unintended failures. This is why it is so important to cover yourself and your business with lead paint home inspection insurance. EliteMGA provides lead paint home inspection insurance and expertise on avoiding risks related to lead-based paint damages. We are the only insurance company specifically for home inspectors with our captive carrier, which means our company will be there when you purchase your insurance and have a claim. This leads to better and quicker service at a more reasonable cost. Contact our knowledgeable, friendly team here to learn more about our lead paint home inspection insurance.