Norfolk pre-1978 housing is subject to federal lead-based paint disclosure and EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) requirements. Many historic Norfolk neighborhoods have substantial lead paint exposure risk.
Under the federal Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (Title X), Norfolk landlords and sellers of pre-1978 housing must disclose known lead hazards and provide EPA lead pamphlet before leasing or selling. Most Norfolk neighborhoods built before 1978, including Ghent, Colonial Place, West Ghent, Park Place, and much of older downtown, are affected. Renovation, repair, or painting disturbing more than 6 square feet of interior or 20 square feet of exterior painted surface in pre-1978 housing must be performed by EPA RRP-certified firms using lead-safe work practices. Virginia Department of Health can investigate suspected childhood lead poisoning and order abatement. Norfolk Code Enforcement can cite deteriorated paint as a code violation.
Disclosure violations: triple damages under federal law plus 19,507 dollar per violation federal fine. RRP violations: EPA fines up to 40,000 dollars per day per violation.
See how Norfolk's lead paint rules stack up against other locations.
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