Magnolia Homes, the Waco, Texas, renovation company featured on HGTV’s *Fixer Upper*, reached a settlement with the Environmental Protection Agency over alleged violations of federal lead-safe renovation rules. The company, associated with Chip and Joanna Gaines, agreed to pay a $40,000 civil penalty, improve its compliance practices, educate the public and spend $160,000 to reduce lead hazards in the Waco area.

The EPA began examining Magnolia’s work after reviewing footage from several seasons of *Fixer Upper*, which regularly reached more than 3 million households. The agency said the footage did not show the lead-safe practices normally required during renovations of older homes. A review of information provided with Magnolia’s cooperation found evidence of noncompliance at 33 properties.

Federal rules generally require paid renovators working on homes built before 1978 to take precautions against exposure to lead-based paint, unless testing establishes that the affected components fall below the regulated lead concentration. The EPA alleged that Magnolia failed to meet requirements including firm certification, assignment of a certified renovator, distribution of a lead-hazard pamphlet, posting warning signs and use of protective coverings to contain dust and paint chips.

After the EPA raised its concerns, Magnolia obtained firm certification, trained staff and brought ongoing projects into compliance, according to the agency. Under the settlement, the company also agreed to use enhanced recordkeeping checklists for employees and subcontractors and provide periodic compliance reports to the EPA.

The agreement includes public education. A March 21, 2018, episode of *Fixer Upper* discussed lead paint and showed some precautions, while Chip Gaines shared lead-safety messages and a link to more information on social media. Magnolia also agreed to release a stand-alone video featuring Gaines discussing lead safety and work practices within three months of the settlement.

For its Waco-area project, Magnolia will work with an independent abatement firm to address hazards in homes or facilities occupied by children. Measures may include replacing windows and doors, removing lead paint and dust, and enclosing or replacing painted surfaces. The EPA noted that much of Waco’s housing was built before 1978 and that at least one neighborhood has experienced elevated lead exposure among children.

Lead paint was banned in 1978, but it remains in many older homes. Renovation can release dangerous lead dust, and exposure can cause learning and behavioral problems, seizures and death. Young children are especially vulnerable because their nervous systems are still developing.