Chip and Joanna Gaines, the stars of HGTV’s mega-hit “Fixer Upper,” agreed to pay a fine of $40,000 for allegedly performing home renovations with inadequate lead paint protections, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They also agreed to spend $160,000 to abate lead-based paint hazards in Waco, Texas-based buildings where homeowners are at a high risk for exposure to dust from lead-based paint.
After reviewing footage of the television program, the EPA alleged the couple had violated rules for safe handling of lead paint on 33 properties in Waco. Specifically, the stars were in violation of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP Rule)—a rule that also applies to wood flooring contractors doing refinishing work.
Under the terms of the settlement with the EPA, the couple, who operate as Magnolia Homes, will be required to ensure compliance with lead-based paint regulations in all future projects. They will also be required to “educate the public to lead-based paint hazards and appropriate renovation procedures,” according to the EPA.
“Through this settlement, Magnolia is putting in place safeguards to ensure the safety of its renovation work and making meaningful contributions toward the protection of children and vulnerable communities from exposure to lead-based paint,” EPA Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Assistant Administrator Susan Bodine said in a statement.
The EPA filed its allegations against Magnolia on November 29, 2017.
Under the RRP Rule, anyone performing work on residential housing and child-occupied buildings built before 1978 that disturbs lead-based coatings must use certified renovators with EPA-approved training. Renovators must also inform the homeowners of the hazards of lead-based paint and adhere to lead-safe work practices to contain dust and waste during the renovation, all while keeping records to document compliance.
Related:
EPA Increases Lead Paint Rule Enforcement
EPA Fines Remodelers $17K for Lead-Based Paint Violations
