EPA RRP FAQ
What time do the classes start and end?
Classes begin at 8 am sharp and run until 5 pm with at least one break in the morning and afternoon, plus one hour for lunch.
Is food provided?
Coffee will be available throughout the day and a continental breakfast of muffins and donuts will be available in the morning. Students like to get out of the room so we have changed based on student feedback and students now go out for lunch on their own.
Why do I need to take this class?
The new EPA rules state that any contractor participating on renovation projects on buildings or spaces that were built before 1978 must get certified or they will face fines of $37,500 per day that they are working in a qualified space. The cost of getting certified is literally less than 1 percent the cost of a one-day fine.
Will this class certify me to do work? Do I need anything else?
This class will certify individuals and Lead Safe Renovators. If you are an owner of a company, or are self-employed, you will also need to have a Firm Certification. There is no class for firm certification, you simply fill out a form and send it to the EPA. This will also be covered in the class so when you are done you will have what you need for firm certification as well if that applies to you.
What are the fees associated with certification?
Beyond the cost of the class there are no additional fees for individual certification. If you are certifying a firm, there is an additional $300 fee payable directly to the EPA. All of the details of how to do this will be covered in the class.
Will I have some sort of proof of certification?
Yes. Soon after the class you will receive a certification with your picture and your personal certification number. This will prove that you have passed the class and test.
Is there a test at the end of the class?
Yes. There is a test and this is required by the EPA in order for you to become certified. It is 25 multiple choice questions. We have never had anyone fail it yet and if you attend class and follow along the test should be no problem for you.
If I change jobs, what happens to my certification?
Certification is personal. It stays with you and you will have your own personal certificate with your picture and certification number, like a driver's license. You can take it with you to your next job. As a matter of fact, some people take the class because it makes them more employable than not having the certification.
How long is my certification valid?
Certification is valid for 5 years. After 5 years a four hour refresher course is needed.
Is work done by a landlord or employees of a property management firm covered?
Yes. Any work done on a home built before 1978 applies to this rule. The only time the rule does not apply is when a homeowner of an owner-occupied is doing work on his or her own house.