Could the exterior of a 1970s Alberta home have lead paint?

Yes, it could. Health Canada says a home built between 1960 and 1990 may contain lead-based paint on the exterior, so a 1970s Alberta home falls squarely in that band.

The exterior surfaces most worth checking are any that show peeling, chalking or flaking paint, because damaged paint is what any work would disturb first. Health Canada is clear that sanding, heat guns and blowlamps should never be used on surfaces that may contain lead paint.

How to confirm it

Two methods are published. A contractor with X-ray fluorescence equipment can test painted surfaces without disturbing them. Alternatively, a lab can analyse paint chip samples. We found no published Calgary price for lead paint testing, so ask for a written quote.

If testing confirms lead paint, your options are to hire a professional for removal, use a chemical paint stripper paste that avoids dust, or cover it; Health Canada lists wallpaper, wallboard or panelling for interiors, and on an exterior the same idea means covering the old paint rather than disturbing it. Health Canada says to dispose of lead scrapings and debris according to your municipality's instructions. We found no specific City of Calgary rule for lead paint waste, so check the City's instructions before disposing of any material.

A few things to sort out before hiring anyone:

• Ask to see the contractor's WCB clearance letter confirming their account is in good standing; without it, you could be liable for unpaid premiums.
• Ask for a certificate of liability and property damage insurance.
• Under Alberta consumer protection rules, a prepaid contract of $200 or more must be in writing and include itemized prices, a completion date and your cancellation rights.
• The Alberta OHS Code sets a worker exposure limit for lead of 0.05 milligrams per cubic metre and requires the contractor to have an exposure control plan if workers may exceed it for more than 30 days a year.

If the exterior paint has already been disturbed, stop the work right now, keep people and pets away from the area, do not sweep or vacuum any dust or chips, and have the material tested before anyone goes back to that part of the house.