Kentucky’s New Environmental Rules: 3 Changes You Need to Know
Kentucky has introduced several important updates to its environmental rules that change how inspections are performed for lead, water, and other hazards. If you manage HUD housing, rental properties, or conduct environmental reviews, these new laws could directly affect your work in 2025 and beyond.
1. Updated Lead Abatement Rules (902 KAR 48:040, 2023)
Kentucky’s updated lead-hazard abatement regulation establishes stricter standards for permits, fees, and inspection methods. It clarifies when abatement permits are needed in target housing or child-occupied facilities and now requires that all inspections and risk assessments be performed by certified lead-hazard inspectors or risk assessors.
Why it matters:
Failing to use certified professionals or missing new permit requirements can lead to project delays, fines, and noncompliance with HUD standards.
2. Revised Lead Program & RRP Certification (2022)
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (CHFS) oversees the state’s Environmental Lead Program and Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) rules. Anyone disturbing lead-based paint in buildings built before 1978 must hold proper certification and follow safe work practices that prevent dust and debris from spreading.
Why it matters:
Inspectors and contractors should confirm that all certifications are up to date. Old or expired credentials will not satisfy Kentucky’s revised standards. Routine cleaning helps, but once soil is contaminated, dust will continue to reappear until the source is identified and addressed.
3. Senate Bill 89: Water Protection Rollbacks (2025)
Senate Bill 89 scales back the state’s ability to regulate water pollution in small streams, wetlands, and groundwater. While this reduces oversight in some areas, it also shifts more responsibility to environmental consultants to confirm that reviews still meet federal and HUD standards.
Why it matters:
Projects in rural or undeveloped areas may need expanded documentation to show compliance, even if fewer state permits are required.
What to Watch Moving Forward
Permit fees & timelines
Review project budgets and schedules for potential changes.
Expanded inspection areas
New requirements may include both interior and exterior testing.
Reporting deadlines
Inspection results must be submitted to the state within 30 days of completion.
Updated scopes
Check that your contracts and reports reference the most current Kentucky regulations.
Steps to Stay in Compliance
Update all contracts and scopes of work to reflect new rules.
Verify that staff and subcontractor certifications are current.
Budget for any new permit fees, sampling, or documentation requirements.
Keep projects on schedule to avoid compliance delays.
Kentucky’s environmental inspection landscape is changing rapidly. Staying proactive helps protect your organization from costly delays and ensures you meet both state and federal requirements.
Trusted Environmental Compliance Experts
Take Action Today to Protect Your Property and Projects
Kentucky’s environmental laws are evolving, and compliance can’t be left to chance. Whether you manage HUD housing, oversee development, or operate multifamily properties, understanding how new regulations affect your inspections is critical.
At CMEC Environmental, our certified consultants deliver independent, unbiased inspections and compliance reviews you can trust. We stay up to date on Kentucky’s latest environmental rules—covering lead, asbestos, radon, and water quality—so your projects remain on schedule and within HUD standards.
Our work helps you stay compliant, protect your investments, and ensure safe living environments across Louisville and throughout Kentucky.
Environmental regulations and inspection requirements in Kentucky are constantly evolving. Staying informed helps protect your property, your residents, and your compliance status. At CMEC Environmental, our certified environmental professionals provide independent inspections, testing, and compliance reviews for lead, asbestos, mold, radon, and water quality across Louisville and throughout Kentucky.
We follow current state and HUD standards, including 902 KAR 48:040, RRP certification requirements, and new water protection laws. You’ll receive clear, detailed reports based on ASTM, AHIA, and EPA guidelines—without sales pressure or conflicts of interest.
Protect your investment, meet every requirement, and ensure your properties are safe and compliant. Contact CMEC Environmental today for certified environmental inspections and regulatory compliance services in Louisville and across Kentucky.