The company behind the popular Indianapolis-basedHGTV show Good Bones must pay a $40,000 fine forallegedly violatinga federal lead paint law, according to the U.S. Environment Protection Agency.
The EPA Friday’s announcement that it had reached a settlementTwo Chicks and a Hammer, Inc. was founded by Karen E. Laine and Mina Starsiak Hawk in order to address the alleged violations depicted in the show.
Three properties were renovated by the company in the city starting in 2017. Two of the properties were located in the Bates-Hendricks area, and one was east of Fall Creek Place. However, all three homes were built before 1978, when lead-based paint was banned by the federal government.
The EPA claims that Two Chicks and a Hammer did its renovations at these properties without complying with federal Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule requirements. The EPA specifically alleges that Two Chicks & a Hammer did its renovations at these properties, but not in compliance with the federal Lead Renovation Repair and Painting Rule. consent agreement order saysIt was not certified to do this work and failed to properly transport and contain the waste to prevent the release lead dust.
“Compliance is essential to protect children across America and is a priority of the EPA,” Debra Shore, administrator for EPA Regional 5 that includes Indiana, stated in a statement. It is crucial that these shows demonstrate safe lead work practices, as so many people watch these shows for tips on remodeling their homes.
IndyStar inquired about the number of Indianapolis companies that were cited under the lead paint law and the agency could not immediately respond.,How the $40,000 fine compares to other fines for similar allegations. The agency took into account the gravity, extent, and circumstances of the alleged violations when determining the amount.
The EPA states that reducing childhood lead exposures should be a top priority.
Research shows that Lead can have life-long, irreversible effects.Including a decrease in IQ, focus, and academic achievement in children. Although lead is harmful to all children, the EPA stated that it has disproportionately negative effects on low-income families and communities.
Scrub Hub:Am I mulching in the wrong way? Are my trees being killed by volcano mulch?
Hawk stated that her company has no control on the editing process and that what is shown represents only a highlight reel of a six-month-long process. She stated that her company has always taken precautions when dealing hazardous materials when demolishing structures.
Hawk explained to IndyStar that this part of the process wasn’t interesting enough for TV. We are committed to the safety of our buyers and recognize the importance and importance of the EPA as well as the importance of safe building practices.
The settlement states that although the company agreed with the penalty, it did not admit or denial the specific allegations.
The company was contacted by EPA in 2018 and has since obtained the required certification under the lead rule. They have also agreed to follow the rule in all future renovations.
Indianapolis company is under more scrutiny
Two Chicks and a Hammer must also produce a video about renovations involving paint containing lead that features Hawk. The company must share this video and another on lead protection for children on its social media platforms.
Good Bones was not the only HGTV program that has run-inswith the EPA about lead issues. In recent years, the agency has settled several cases involving lead rule enforcement with other programs. Magnolia Homes, Rehab Addict Bargain Mansions.
After being criticized for their role in gentrifying Fountain Square and Bates Hendricks, the reality show from Indianapolis has been under fire. Since 2007, when Two Chicks and a Hammer was founded, Hawk and Laine have renovated more 100 homes in the area.
IndyStar reported that these neighborhoods have seen skyrocketing property prices and bidding battles over the past few years. This causes long-term residents to move away from their homes. They are then further removed from revitalized areas and amenities, as well as job opportunities, and services.
Many residents and researchers believe that the show played a role in their lives, but Laine said to IndyStar that she doesn’t see it that way. She stated that they are helping to restore vacant housing stock and increase neighboring property values.
Sarah Bowman, IndyStar reporter, can be reached at 317-444-6129. sarah.bowman@indystar.com. Follow her on Twitter Facebook: @IndyStarSarah. Connect with IndyStars’ environmental reporters:Join Facebook: The Scrub.
IndyStar is made possible by the generous support of Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust.