If you’re a Michigan builder or remodeler working on homes built before 1978, your RRP Lead Paint Certification isn’t just paperwork — it’s your legal permission to do business. But what happens if that certification expires? The short answer: it can cost you time, money, and your right to work on hundreds of projects across the state. Here’s what you need to know about the consequences, the fix, and how to avoid the scramble next time.

When Your Certification Expires, So Does Your Compliance

Under the EPA’s Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule, your certification is valid for five years. After that, you must complete a refresher course to stay compliant.

Once it expires, you are no longer legally certified to perform or supervise any renovation, repair, or painting work that disturbs lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, schools, or child-care facilities.

That means you can’t:

• Pull permits for lead-related work

• Bid on older home remodels

• Work as a subcontractor under a certified firm

Even if you’ve been certified before — once it expires, it’s like starting from zero.

The Consequences: It’s Not Worth the Risk

Failing to renew your certification can quickly spiral into serious consequences:

• Hefty fines: The EPA can issue penalties of up to $41,000 per day, per violation.

• Job shutdowns: Projects can be halted immediately if inspectors find uncertified workers.

• Loss of contracts: Many municipalities and general contractors require proof of current certification before awarding jobs.

• Reputation damage: Noncompliance can follow you in public records — not exactly great for business.

In short: skipping your renewal can cost far more than the short refresher course to stay certified.

How to Fix It (Fast) …

If your certification has already expired — don’t panic. You can get back on track quickly.

Here’s how:

• Enroll in an EPA-approved refresher course through the Michigan Institute of Real Estate.

  • If your certification has been expired less than one year, you can still take the refresher.

  • If it’s been more than one year, you’ll need to retake the initial 8-hour certification course.

• Complete the class and pass the course exam.
  You’ll receive a new certificate valid for another five years.

• Keep your certification on file.
  EPA inspections can happen anytime — be ready to show proof.

How to Avoid the Expiration Trap …

Renewing your RRP certification is simple if you stay proactive:

• Set a reminder 90 days before expiration.

• Take the refresher course early — don’t wait until the last week.

• Keep a digital and printed copy of your certificate for easy access.

The Bottom Line …

Your RRP certification is more than compliance — it’s protection for your business, your crew, and your clients.

Letting it lapse even for a few days can cost you thousands in fines or lost work.

Here at the Michigan Institute of Real Estate, we make it easy to renew your certification on time with EPA-approved refresher courses taught by experienced instructors who know Michigan’s building landscape.

Don’t let an expired certificate put your business at risk.
Renew your Michigan RRP Certification today and keep your compliance (and cash flow) intact.