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Lead Paint Remediation Cost Calculator

Pre-1978 homes often have lead paint. Remediation methods: encapsulation ($2-$5/sqft), enclosure ($8-Pre-1978 homes often have lead paint. Remediation methods: encapsulation ($2-$5/sqft), enclosure ($8-Pre-1978 homes often have lead paint. Remediation methods: encapsulation ($2-$5/sqft), enclosure ($8-Pre-1978 homes often have lead paint. Remediation methods: encapsulation ($2-$5/sqft), enclosure ($8-$15/sqft), full abatement ($25-$50/sqft). Required for rental disclosure and some home sales. This calculator sizes.5/sqft), full abatement ($25-$50/sqft). Required for rental disclosure and some home sales. This calculator sizes. EPA RRP rule requires lead-safe work practices (HEPA vacuums, plastic containment, wet cleaning) on any renovation of pre-1978 homes disturbing over 6 sqft interior or 20 sqft exterior. Certified contractors required. Disclosure on property sale is mandatory under the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (1992). Home sellers must provide EPA-approved pamphlet and known lead information to buyers and allow 10-day inspection window.5/sqft), full abatement ($25-$50/sqft). Required for rental disclosure and some home sales. This calculator sizes.5/sqft), full abatement ($25-$50/sqft). Required for rental disclosure and some home sales. This calculator sizes. EPA RRP rule requires lead-safe work practices (HEPA vacuums, plastic containment, wet cleaning) on any renovation of pre-1978 homes disturbing over 6 sqft interior or 20 sqft exterior. Certified contractors required. Disclosure on property sale is mandatory under the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (1992). Home sellers must provide EPA-approved pamphlet and known lead information to buyers and allow 10-day inspection window.

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Total remediation cost

$4,500

Work cost (method × sqft)

$2,400

Rate $/sqft

$3

How the math works

800 sqft encapsulation: $2,400 + $1,200 setup + $500 disposal + $400 testing = $4,500. Full abatement on same area: $28K+.

Encapsulation is cheapest and fine for most situations but isn't permanent — plan to re-inspect every 5-10 years. Abatement once = done.

How to Use

  1. Enter square footage of lead-painted surface.
  2. Choose remediation method.
  3. See estimated cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which method?

Encapsulation: paint-over with certified sealer. Cheapest but paint can chip. Enclosure: cover with drywall/new siding. Mid cost. Abatement: full removal (sanding/stripping). Most expensive but permanent.

Is testing required first?

Yes. XRF gun testing or paint-chip lab analysis ($200-$500). Don't remediate on assumption — may be unnecessary.

Legal requirements?

EPA RRP rule: contractors working on pre-1978 homes must be RRP-certified and use lead-safe practices. Violation = $37K fine per day. Always hire certified contractor.

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