Lowe’s Home Centers has agreed to a settlement of $12.5 million to address violations of federal environmental regulations linked to renovation work carried out by its contractors in Southern California and other areas. The announcement was made on October 10, 2023, following a settlement agreement filed in the federal court in Los Angeles.
The settlement comes after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that Lowe’s had not adhered to the compliance terms set forth in a previous 2014 settlement. This led to alleged violations of the EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting rule, which aims to protect residents from lead exposure during home renovations. The company is required to implement a comprehensive corporate program to ensure that the contractors and installers it hires are qualified to apply lead-safe work practices.
In its investigation, the EPA identified some of the violations during a review of periodic compliance reports submitted by Lowe’s, as mandated by the 2014 consent decree. Additional violations emerged after the agency acted on a tip from a member of the public regarding renovation work, including door replacements, conducted by contractors hired by Lowe’s in southern and central California.
Lead-based paint was banned in the United States in 1978, yet many older homes still contain it. Improper handling of such materials poses significant health risks, particularly to children and vulnerable populations. Adam Gustafson, the principal deputy assistant attorney general of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division, emphasized the seriousness of the issue, stating, “Careless handling of lead paint endangers the health of children and other Americans.”
Gustafson further noted that the substantial penalty reflects the necessity of utilizing certified firms and contractors for renovations in older homes. “Contractors hired for work that may disturb paint in homes built prior to 1978 must be certified. These contractors have the training to recognize and prevent the hazards that can be created when lead paint is disturbed,” he added.
The consent decree is currently open for a 30-day public comment period and will require final approval from the court before it is fully enacted. This settlement serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for strict adherence to environmental regulations, particularly in the context of home renovations where lead paint may still be present.
