How Common Are Older Homes?
About 57% of Wichita homes were built before 1980, per census estimates (U.S. Census ACS 2020–2024). Neighborhoods like College Hill, Riverside and Delano have many older homes. Not every older kitchen has lead paint, especially if the cabinets were replaced later. But you shouldn’t assume.
The Federal Rule
Under EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting rule, contractors paid to disturb painted surfaces in homes built before 1978 must be certified and follow lead-safe practices, unless testing shows no lead-based paint. The rule includes thresholds for small jobs. Interior work disturbing more than 6 square feet of painted surface is covered.
Kansas
Kansas runs its own program through KDHE. Renovation firms working in covered housing need a Kansas license under K.A.R. 28-72-10a. Ask any painter for their KDHE renovation firm license if your home was built before 1978.
What Lead-Safe Work Looks Like
- Testing first, or treating surfaces as if they contain lead
- Plastic containment and covering of floors and counters
- No open-flame burning or high-speed sanding without a HEPA shroud
- HEPA vacuuming and a cleaning check at the end
Original vs. Replaced Cabinets
Factory-finished stained cabinets installed in the 1980s or later are less of a concern than original painted cabinets in a 1940s or 1950s kitchen. The painter can test to confirm.
Permits
A permit isn’t needed just to paint existing cabinets: MABCD’s “Do I need a permit?” page lists cabinets and paint among finish work you can repair or replace without one. Lead rules are separate from permits and still apply.
Request a Cabinet Painting Quote
Two quick questions. An independent cabinet painter that works in your area will contact you to see the kitchen and quote it.
Please note: Wichita Cabinet Painting refers homeowners to independent cabinet painters. We are not a contractor.