What Happens When Lead Paint Gets Disturbed During Water Restoration?

Lead paint was common in homes built before 1978. Water damage can cause paint to peel, crack, or chip. During restoration, sanding, scraping, or removing damaged materials can disturb that paint. This releases fine lead dust that settles on floors, walls, and belongings.

Lead dust is dangerous because it has no smell and is hard to see. Even small amounts can cause health problems. Children are especially at risk because they often put hands and toys in their mouths. Pregnant women and adults with high blood pressure also face risks. The pros follow strict safety steps to limit exposure.

• Lead paint was banned for residential use in 1978
• Peeling or chipping paint is a common sign of water damage
• Lead dust can travel through the air and settle on surfaces
• Children are more vulnerable to lead exposure
• Homes built before 1978 are more likely to have lead paint

When the pros work on water damage in a home with lead paint, they take extra steps. They seal off the work area with plastic sheeting and use negative air pressure to keep dust from spreading. They wear respirators and protective suits. They also use wet methods to keep dust down, like misting surfaces before scraping.

The pros carefully remove and bag any materials contaminated with lead. They clean the area with a HEPA vacuum and wet wiping. After the work, they may test surfaces to confirm lead levels are safe. This process is thorough and takes time, but it protects everyone in your home.

• Seal the room with plastic sheeting
• Use wet methods to reduce dust
• Wear respirators and protective clothing
• Bag and remove lead-contaminated materials
• Clean with HEPA vacuums and wet cloths
• Test surfaces after cleanup

Water damage restoration that disturbs lead paint may involve extra costs for containment and disposal. Your insurance policy might cover some of these expenses, but it depends on the cause of the water damage and the terms of your policy. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Check your policy to understand what is included. Keep records of all communication with your insurance company and the pros. If you have questions about coverage, ask your insurance company directly. The pros can provide documentation of their work, but they do not handle claims for you.