What are the rules for painting a home built before 1978?

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Reviewed by Interior Paint Guide Editorial Team · Last updated August 2026

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• Cost figures are typical U.S. ranges for 2025 compiled from published industry estimates (for example Angi, HomeAdvisor, Forbes Home, Fixr, and HomeGuide). Your local price varies by region, room size, ceiling height, surface condition, prep, number of coats, and paint grade.
• Paint coverage of about 350 to 400 square feet per gallon per coat follows major manufacturer guidance (for example Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore). Rough, porous, or previously unpainted surfaces absorb more.
• Dry-to-touch, recoat, and full-cure times are typical for latex interior paint per manufacturer labels; humidity and temperature change them, so always follow the product's instructions.
• For homes built before 1978, the U.S. EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule requires paid firms that disturb paint to be Lead-Safe certified; some states run their own EPA-authorized program. Confirm licensing and lead-safe certification before hiring.