The Environmental Protection Agency has reached a settlement with Magnolia Waco Properties, LLC, which does business as Magnolia Homes, over alleged lead-safety violations during home renovations featured on HGTV’s *Fixer Upper*. The Waco, Texas, renovation company, associated with Chip and Joanna Gaines, agreed to pay a $40,000 civil penalty, improve its practices, educate the public and fund a local lead-abatement project.

The EPA began examining Magnolia’s work after reviewing footage from several seasons of the popular series, 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 subsequent review, conducted with Magnolia’s cooperation, found evidence of noncompliance at 33 properties.

Under the federal Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule, firms paid to renovate homes built before 1978 generally must follow precautions to limit exposure to lead paint, unless testing establishes that affected surfaces fall below the regulated lead concentration. The EPA alleged that Magnolia had failed to obtain firm certification, assign certified renovators, provide occupants with an approved lead-hazard pamphlet, post warning signs and use required containment practices, such as covering floors and openings.

After the EPA raised its concerns, Magnolia obtained firm certification and staff training and brought active renovations into compliance, according to the agency. The settlement also calls for a compliance management program, enhanced recordkeeping by Magnolia and its subcontractors, and periodic reports to the EPA.

Magnolia committed $160,000 to a project with an independent abatement firm to reduce lead hazards in Waco-area homes or facilities occupied by children. Work may include replacing windows and doors, removing lead paint and dust, and enclosing or replacing contaminated surfaces. The company also agreed to release an educational video featuring Chip Gaines within three months and promote it online. A March 21, 2018, *Fixer Upper* episode had already addressed lead safety, and Gaines shared related guidance with his social-media followers.

Lead paint remains in many older homes despite its 1978 ban. Renovation can create hazardous lead dust, and exposure can cause learning and behavioral problems, seizures and even death. Young children are especially vulnerable because their nervous systems are still developing.