The April 22, 2010 deadline from the EPA regarding lead paint is here. This will be short and to the point because your time is valuable. Please be aware of several points when it comes to your insurance policies. There is no insurance requirement included in the EPA regulations. There is no coverage in your general liability policy for this exposure. Every contractor should have a separate pollution policy to fill the gap created by the pollution exclusion on the General Liability.
Pollution Liability coverage, including lead or asbestos, is relatively easy to obtain through a variety of environmental carriers. Starting premiums for these policies are $2,500 - $5,000. Turn around time to secure coverage is generally 2-3 days.
If you have a Pollution Liability Policy in place, be aware that lead has been a common pollutant for so long that it is not typically identified by name on most pollution policies. Environmental carriers are comfortable with the exposure, and unless specifically excluded, there is usually coverage under the definition of pollutants.
If you would like additional information, please let me know.
Dawn Pogue, CIC
Sutter, McLellan & Gilbreath, Inc.
(770)246-8300
dpogue@smginsurance.com