The rules for doing construction work on a pre-1978 Rhode Island property require that a contractor do the following:

• Attend a Remodeler/Renovator Class
• Become a licensed Remodeler/Renovator
• Educate the client before renovation using the required documents
• Use lead safe work practices during the work
• Achieve a clearance test at the end of the job

Documentation
When doing inside work in a pre-1978 house, Rhode Island contractors who disturb more than six square feet of painted surface per room on the interior jobs and 20 square feet of paint on exterior jobs should be giving owners and residents the EPA "Renovate Right" booklet and documenting the disclosure with the Rhode Island Confirmation of Receipt of Lead Pamphlet form. A copy of this completed form should be retained for at least three years. Work on common areas trigger the requirement to disclose in this way to all tenants in the multi-family home whose units are connected to the common areas.