Lead-Based Paint Renovations in Oregon

The Lead-Based Paint Renovation (LBPR) license is a mandatory specialty credential issued by the Oregon CCB for contractors performing renovation work on homes and buildings built before 1978. There are currently 4,759 active LBPR licenses in Oregon.

Before 1978, lead-based paint was commonly used in residential construction. Any renovation activity that disturbs painted surfaces - sanding, scraping, cutting, demolition - can release hazardous lead dust and paint chips that pose serious health risks, particularly to children under 6 and pregnant women. Lead exposure causes permanent neurological damage with no safe lower threshold of exposure.

Under Oregon law and the EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule (40 CFR Part 745), contractors performing renovation work in pre-1978 homes must hold a lead-safe certification and follow specific containment, work practice, and cleanup procedures. These requirements apply to renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb more than 6 square feet of painted surface per room indoors, or more than 20 square feet outdoors. Common projects that trigger the requirement include window replacement, kitchen and bathroom renovations, painting preparation involving sanding, and any demolition work on painted surfaces.

If your home was built before 1978, hiring a contractor without an LBPR license for renovation work is not just a risk - it may expose your family to lead contamination and the contractor to civil penalties. Verify the LBPR license is Active and that the expiration date has not passed before any renovation work begins. See our guide to 8 mistakes to avoid when hiring a contractor for more on why this credential matters.