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🔧 Building Safety/Lead Paint

Federal Way vs Kirkland

How do lead paint rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Kirkland, WA?

Federal Way and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.

Federal Way, WA

King County

Heavy Restrictions

Federal Way pre-1978 housing is subject to federal lead disclosure and RRP rules. Contractors must be EPA-certified and follow lead-safe practices under 40 CFR 745.

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Kirkland, WA

King County

Heavy Restrictions

Kirkland follows the federal EPA Renovation Repair and Painting Rule which requires certified contractors and lead-safe work practices in homes built before 1978.

View full Kirkland rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactFederal WayKirkland
Housing AgePre-1978 regulated-
Disclosure LawFederal Title X-
RRP Rule40 CFR 745 Subpart E-
Interior Threshold6 square feet-
Exterior Threshold20 square feet-
Federal trigger-Pre-1978 housing
RRP rule-40 CFR Part 745
Disclosure-24 CFR Part 35
State program-WA Commerce
Max fine-37500 dollars daily

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Federal Way FAQ

Do I need a lead-certified contractor for my older Federal Way home?

Yes, if your home was built before 1978 and the work disturbs more than 6 square feet interior or 20 square feet exterior of painted surface. The contractor must be EPA RRP certified.

What must sellers disclose?

Known lead-based paint hazards and any lead inspection reports, plus the EPA Protect Your Family pamphlet to buyers of pre-1978 housing.

Kirkland FAQ

Do I need a certified contractor for pre-1978 work?

Yes, any paid contractor disturbing painted surfaces in a pre-1978 home in Kirkland must be RRP-certified; owners working on their own homes are exempt but must follow the disclosure rule when selling.

Do I need to test for lead before remodeling?

The RRP rule does not require testing; it requires that work be done using lead-safe practices unless a certified test shows the surfaces are lead-free.

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