The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $95,000 settlement with Intelligent Design Corp., based in Maple Grove, Minnesota, to resolve alleged violations of federal Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting regulations.
“Compliance with federal lead paint laws is essential to protect children and is one of EPA’s highest priorities,” said EPA Regional Administrator Debra Shore. “We applaud the resident who brought this case to our attention to help keep their community safe.”
Following a complaint from a resident, the EPA initiated an investigation into the company's renovation activities around the Minneapolis area. Between 2019 and 2022, Intelligent Design renovated at least six houses built before 1978. The EPA alleges that the company failed to take necessary precautions to contain the work area and manage waste at the complainant's home. Additionally, it is alleged that Intelligent Design did not complete post-renovation cleaning verification or distribute the required "renovate right" educational pamphlet promptly at six homes in the area.
Under the settlement terms, Intelligent Design agreed to pay a civil penalty of $95,000 and will certify compliance with Renovation, Repair and Painting regulations.
Lead dust can be generated when lead-based paint is disturbed during renovation activities such as installing windows, demolishing painted surfaces, or scraping and repainting homes. Lead-contaminated dust from homes built before 1978 is a common cause of elevated blood lead levels in children. Infants and children are particularly vulnerable because their growing bodies absorb more lead than adults', and their brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to its damaging effects. Exposure can result in irreversible health impacts.
For more information about EPA’s enforcement program or to report a lead paint violation, visit the Agency’s website.
