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The Costly Mistake Chip & Joanna Gaines Made On Fixer Upper
By D.G. SCIORTINO
Despite their home renovation expertise, HGTV's "Fixer Upper'' stars, Chip and Joanna Gaines, still managed to overlook the dangers of lead-based paint when working on older homes.
They were caught out when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reviewed the show, and found that 33 of the couple’s home transformation projects fell foul of regulations.
The Gaineses responded readily to the EPA’s requests and took immediate remedial action, but they still incurred a fine of $40,000 and had to cough up $160,000 for abatement work.
Lead exposure can cause seizures, learning disabilities, behavioral disorders, and even death. Children are even more at risk, on account of their still-developing nervous systems.
Although banned since 1978, lead-based paint may still be present in older homes. Chipping, damaging, or creating lead dust when removing the paint, can result in lead exposure.
If you’re renovating a home built pre-1978, you must comply with the EPA’s Toxic Substances Control Act Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule to minimize risk.
Precautions you’ll need to take include using certified contractors, covering floors and vents to prevent the spread of dust and chips, and displaying signage to warn of dangers.
The couple used their show to educate their 3 million viewers about lead-based paint hazards. They also took steps to ensure ongoing compliance with the regulations.