Lead-Safe Renovation (RRP) Requirements

North Carolina's own RRP program replaces federal EPA filing

North Carolina administers lead-safe renovation certification directly through the Health Hazards Control Unit (HHCU) — the state program supersedes the federal EPA program within NC's jurisdiction under G.S. 130A-453.23. Use HHCU forms and fee submissions, not the EPA national portal.

Covered work: any paid renovation, repair, or painting that disturbs painted surfaces in pre-1978 housing or child-occupied facilities.

Both firm and renovator must hold NC credentials — EPA certification alone is not enough

The state requires two separate credentials before covered work begins:

1. Certified renovation firm — apply or renew through HHCU; $300 per year (expires on the last day of the 12th month after issuance, per G.S. 130A-453.25)

2. Certified renovator — must be employed by a North Carolina-certified renovation firm (G.S. 130A-453.22); directs lead-safe work practices on each covered job

Holding an EPA credential without NC firm certification does not authorize work in North Carolina.

Dust sampling technicians carry a separate $150 credential

North Carolina separately certifies dust sampling technicians. Certification costs $150 and expires on the last day of the month in the year following completion of certification training (G.S. 130A-453.25) — a different expiration anchor than the renovation firm certificate. Dust sampling technicians must also be employed by a certified renovation firm to perform covered work (G.S. 130A-453.22).

Apply and renew through HHCU — not the EPA portal

Applications, renewals, and current forms are at the HHCU renovation page and HHCU forms library. Set a firm-renewal reminder at the 11-month mark — there is no posted grace period.

Abatement is a separate license; enforcement is under N.C.G.S. 130A

If the scope of work qualifies as lead abatement rather than renovation, North Carolina's separate abatement licensure rules apply instead. HHCU enforces both programs under N.C.G.S. 130A-453.22 through 130A-453.31, with authority to take certification actions against firms or individuals.