Protect your property, your family, and your project timeline—without guesswork
If your Henderson home (or commercial space) was built before 1978, lead-based paint is a real possibility—especially on trim, windows, doors, railings, and older exterior coatings. The risk often spikes during renovations, repairs, or repainting because disturbed lead paint can create invisible dust that spreads fast. EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) program exists for that reason: to minimize exposure to lead dust created by common work like sanding, cutting, and demolition. (epa.gov)
At Apex Home Services, our team helps Henderson-area owners address lead hazards with controlled, compliance-minded processes that prioritize occupant safety and job-site cleanliness. This guide explains what “lead abatement” means, when you should consider it, what a professional process looks like, and how to plan your next remodel responsibly.
Lead in homes: what the risk actually is (and why it matters during remodeling)
Lead is a potent toxin, and health agencies emphasize that there is no safe level of lead exposure for children. Even low-level exposure can be harmful, which is why standards and best practices keep getting tighter. (cdc.gov)
The most common home-related pathway isn’t “eating paint chips” (though that can happen with peeling surfaces). It’s lead dust—created when lead-based paint is disturbed and then tracked or circulated through the property. EPA notes that renovation activities can generate hazardous lead dust, and the RRP rule focuses on containing and cleaning that dust before it spreads. (epa.gov)
Lead abatement vs. lead-safe renovation: what’s the difference?
In plain terms: repainting a room in an older home may require lead-safe methods, while a verified hazard (or a high-risk situation) may call for abatement-level controls, documentation, and clearance testing.
When should Henderson owners consider lead abatement or professional lead removal?
1) You’re renovating a pre-1978 property
Kitchens, bathrooms, window replacements, flooring removal, drywall repair, and repainting can all disturb old coatings. EPA highlights sanding, cutting, and demolition as common dust-generating activities. (epa.gov)
2) Paint is peeling, chalking, or damaged—especially around windows/doors
Friction and impact surfaces (window sashes, door frames) can shed dust even without major remodeling. If you see frequent “mystery dust” near windowsills, it’s worth investigating.
3) There are young children, pregnant occupants, or high-sensitivity environments
CDC uses a blood lead reference value (BLRV) of 3.5 µg/dL for children to identify elevated levels compared with most kids. Lower thresholds mean earlier intervention and more urgency around environmental sources. (cdc.gov)
4) You need documented clearance after work
EPA finalized stronger federal requirements in October 2024 for identifying and cleaning up lead-based paint hazards, including stricter post-abatement clearance levels (for example: 5 µg/ft² floors and 40 µg/ft² window sills). (epa.gov)
What professional lead abatement typically includes
Every site is different, but a responsible lead removal/abatement plan usually follows the same safety logic: identify the risk, control the dust, remove or stabilize impacted materials, then clean and verify.
Key steps you should expect to see
Quick “Did You Know?” facts (lead edition)
At-a-glance table: common lead risk areas and safer planning tips
| Area / Project | Why it’s higher risk | Smarter next step |
|---|---|---|
| Window replacement | Friction surfaces create dust; removal disturbs painted trim | Lead-safe containment + HEPA dust control + detailed cleanup |
| Sanding / scraping paint | Generates fine dust that spreads into HVAC and adjacent rooms | Avoid high-dust methods; use approved controls and procedures (epa.gov) |
| Kitchen/bath remodel | Cutting walls, removing cabinets, and flooring demo can disturb old coatings | Test/assess first; plan phased containment to keep home functional |
| Exterior repaint | Wind and soil contamination increase spread potential | Ground cover + debris control + compliant disposal practices |
Local angle: what Henderson property owners should keep in mind
Henderson has a mix of newer developments and older housing stock across the valley. If your property dates to the pre-1978 era—or you manage older rental inventory—lead-safe planning protects your timeline as much as it protects health. Dust incidents can quickly turn a small remodel into a multi-room cleaning event.
A good local plan usually includes: scheduling work when the home can be partially vacated, isolating work zones from HVAC returns, and coordinating any water damage or mold concerns so you don’t “stack” remediation problems (for example, opening walls for a leak repair and discovering layers of old paint).
Related services from Apex Home Services (when issues overlap)
Schedule a lead abatement consultation in Henderson
If you’re planning a remodel in a pre-1978 home—or you suspect lead dust risks around windows, trim, or deteriorating paint—Apex Home Services can help you map the safest next step. We’ll explain options, containment expectations, and what “clear” looks like for your property.
FAQ: Lead abatement & lead removal in Henderson, NV
Does the EPA RRP rule apply to homeowners doing DIY work?
EPA notes the RRP rule generally doesn’t apply to homeowners working in their own homes, but it can apply in situations like rental properties, child-occupied facilities, or renovation for profit. If you’re hiring a contractor for a pre-1978 property, ask whether the firm is appropriately certified for covered work. (epa.gov)
What’s the biggest risk during remodeling: chips or dust?
Dust is often the biggest concern because it’s easily spread and hard to see. EPA’s lead-safe work practices focus heavily on controlling dust and debris and cleaning thoroughly after work. (epa.gov)
How do I know if my home has lead-based paint?
Home age is a major clue (pre-1978 is higher likelihood), but the reliable approach is testing/assessment before disturbing suspect surfaces. This helps you avoid accidental dust spread and costly re-cleaning later.
What are “clearance levels,” and why do they matter?
Clearance levels are post-work dust thresholds used to help confirm the area is safe after abatement. EPA finalized stricter clearance levels in October 2024 (for example, floors and window sills). This matters for peace of mind and for certain regulated or documented situations. (epa.gov)
Can lead concerns overlap with water damage, mold, or asbestos?
Yes. Older properties can have multiple hazards at once—especially when walls or flooring are opened up after leaks or during remodeling. Coordinating scopes (and sequencing containment) helps reduce repeat work and limits cross-contamination between problem areas.