EPA Safety Certification Training Course at HBA on January 6

CLASS DATE & LOCATION:

One-day class - 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, January 6 - HBA Office, 636 W. Republic Rd., D108, Springfield MO

Training provided by an EPA Accredited RRP Training Provider. Space is limited!

REGISTER BY: Completing and Returning Registration Form (download by clicking here) to HBA with payment. Advance payment is required. No invoicing, no exceptions.

COST: $195 for HBA Members

$225 for Non-Members

Fee includes lunch; lunch is brief to achieve course in 1 day.

Safety Update - New OSHA Ruling Clarifies Key Residential Safety Regulations

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) applauds the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) decision to withdraw the interim fall protection guidelines for residential construction that were issued in 1995 and revert to the previous guidelines.

"Job site safety is the number one priority for builders," said NAHB Chairman Bob Jones, a home builder from Bloomfield Hills, Mich. "This action will clarify what actions builders need to take to comply with OSHA regulations while helping to ensure safer work sites."

The interim guideline, intended as a temporary policy, was implemented in 1995 to allow employers to use alternative measures for fall protection without having to provide a written, site-specific fall-protection plan or prove that conventional fall-protection systems were not feasible for a particular project. Prior to 1995, OSHA required builders to provide conventional fall protection (i.e., guardrail systems, personal fall-arrest systems or safety-net systems) for workers engaged in residential construction working six feet or more above a lower level. If an employer determined that using conventional fall-protection methods was not feasible or would create a greater hazard, the employer had to provide a written fall-protection plan utilizing alternative fall protection methods. OSHA's new compliance directive (STD 03-11-002) eliminates the interim guideline and reverts back to the pre-1995 regulation.

In a 2008 letter, NAHB requested that OSHA rescind the interim guideline as it created confusion about fall protection requirements for residential construction. The new directive (STD 03-11-002) will require employers to comply with 29 CFR 1926.501(b)(13), which will "eliminate confusion in the residential construction industry as to which fall-protection methods and systems must be used and would make compliance with OSHA fall-protection requirements for the home building industry much simpler and easier to understand, as well as put into practice" according to the letter. The guideline still provides flexibility for employers by allowing them to implement a written fall-protection plan if they determine that conventional systems are not feasible or create a greater hazard to workers.

OSHA's Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health and the Occupational Safety and Health State Plan Association also supported rescinding the interim guideline.

Construction and roofing companies have until June 16, 2011 to comply with the new directive.

For more information on complying with fall protection regulations and training materials, visit www.nahb.org/fallprotection.

Free Webinar @ HBA - MARKETING IN A NEW BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT

View a free NAHB webinar entitled "Marketing in a New Business Environment" on Thursday, December 16, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm at the HBA office. If you plan to attend, please email jennifer@springfieldhba.com or call 881-3711.

Description: Inasmuch as you wouldn’t use a telegraph to stay in touch with clients and vendors, why would you continue using traditional but fading marketing channels? More buyers are turning to the internet first when looking for a house, either existing construction or for new construction. Moreover, younger buyers stay abreast of new developments constantly, using social media resources to communicate their preferences and find out what’s hot. In the post-recovery marketplace you need to understand what buyers want. You also need to effectively utilize social media with existing marketing tools to reach the younger demographic that will be an increasingly important sector of the market.

Program includes:

Carol Flammer, MIRM, CAPS, President, Flammer Relations, Inc.;

Managing Partner, mRelevance, LLC.

Carol Flammer is the author of Social Media for Home Builders: It’s Easier Than You Think, and is the “go to” person for real estate and construction products public relations and social media. She is the visionary behind the nationally-ranked and award-winning atlantarealestateforum.com, Atlanta’s most popular real estate blog. Her launch of the site in 2006 was truly visionary and led the new media movement in the Atlanta new homes market. With 20 years of experience, Ms. Flammer is known for creating effective strategies that create impressions and brand, as well as drive traffic to Web sites and sales centers.

Ms. Flammer is president of Flammer Relations, Inc., and managing partner of mRELEVANCE, LLC, an Internet Marketing, Social Media and Public Relations firm with offices in Atlanta and Chicago. She is a frequent speaker at tradeshows including the International Builders Show, Century 21 Building Show and the Southern Building Show. She speaks frequently to Sales and Marketing Councils and teaches social media seminars at home builders associations around the country. You may contact her for your social media, public relations, or Internet marketing needs at 770-383-3360, @CarolFlammer or http://www.mrelevance.com/.

David Owen, President, Boone Homes, Inc.

David has been President of Boone Homes for Four years and was previously Vice-President for six years. He is currently serving as Vice-President of the Home Building Association of Richmond (HBAR) and will serve as President of HBAR in 2011. Boone Homes’ consistent innovation and outstanding architecture keep them in the top five builders (by annual revenue) each year in the Richmond Market. Over the last year Boone Homes has added social media to it marketing plans by adding a new blog website and completely updating their main website to obtain search engine optimization. The integration of blog posts, Facebook and Twitter into the company’s daily activities has help develop relationships with the local real estate community.

Marie Still, Marketing & Communications Director, MRIS

Marie Still is the Marketing & Communications Director at MRIS, the largest multiple listing service in the nation and leading real estate technology provider. With an MBA in Marketing and BA in English, Ms. Still has served in various interactive and marketing positions to include her previous role as Director of Marketing for AOL’s advertising division. Marie is also an avid blogger (stillisms.com) and speaker.

OSHA 10 Hour Class Offered at Safety Council

The Safety Council of the Ozarks is offering a 10 Hour OSHA Construction Outreach class on the 16th-17th of December. The cost is $99.00 for SCO members, (add $36 for non-members.) To register online, click here or call the Safety Council at 417-869-2121.

The 10-hour Construction Industry Outreach Program Training Program is intended to provide entry level construction workers general awareness on recognizing and preventing hazard on a construction site. The training covers a variety of construction safety and health hazards which a worker may encounter at a construction site. OSHA recommends this training as an orientation to occupational safety and health. Workers must receive additional training on hazards specific to their job. Training should emphasize hazard identification, avoidance, control, and prevention, not OSHA standards.

Watershed Committee Offers Sediment and Erosion Control Workshop

2010 Sediment and Erosion Control Workshop
Date: December 8, 2010
Location: Ozark Community Center, River Room - 1530 W. Jackson St., Ozark MO
Time: 8:30 to 12:00
Cost: FREE

This is a free half day workshop with no registration required. If you have any questions or concerns please contact Mike Kromrey at the Watershed Committee of the Ozarks - mike@watershedcommittee.org or 417-866-1127.

The goal of this workshop is to provide overviews of the sediment an erosion control programs in local MS4 municipalities and instruction on how to maintain compliance. Coffee and snacks will be provided. Target audience will include professionals from the public and private sector.

Speakers:
1) 8:30 Greene County, Presenter Tim Davis
2) 9:15 City of Springfield, Presenter Aaron Nickolotsky
3) 10:00 MODNR, Presenter Kristen Pattinson
4) 11:00 MS4 Community Panel: Nixa, Ozark, Branson, Rogersville, Battlefield and Christian County. Watershed Committee moderator will allow 5 to 10 minutes for each community to explain the status and unique features of each community’s Stormwater program and facilitate questions from the audience.

Industry Educational Offerings From OTC

In addition to offering the Building Performance Institute (BPI) Building Analyst Certification, Ozarks Community Technical College is now offering a number of courses which qualify for continuing education credits. Over the next several months, OTC will be offering the following courses. For registration information call 417-447-8888 or contact cwd@otc.edu for additional details.

BPI Building Analyst Certification
Dates: January 3 - 14, 2011; M-F; 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Where: Center for Workforce Development
Cost: $1799

This specialized, comprehensive WIA approved BPI Energy Auditor class will train individuals to evaluate and improve energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and durability of homes. Learn how to use specialized tools for building analysis, including blower doors, combustion analyzers, combustible gas leak detectors, and pressure pans. BPI Energy Auditor Certification is achieved for successful completers.

BPI Envelope Professional Certification
Qualifies for 6 BPI CEUs
When: November 15 - 19, 2010; M-F; 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Where: Center for Workforce Development
Cost: $1599

This certification builds on the BPI Building Analyst (Home Energy Auditor) Certification, and teaches advanced building shell and duct leakage assessment techniques. Pre-requisites: The class includes a review of Building Analyst concepts and students must have BPI Building Analyst Certification (Home Auditor) to take this class.

Basic Weatherization
Qualifies for 4.5 BPI CEUs
Dates: November 30 - December 3, 2010; T-F; 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Where: Center for Workforce Development
Cost: $429

Introduction to weatherization theory, implementation and basic building science. Training will focus on implementation of weatherization measures.

Advanced Weatherization
Qualifies for 4.5 BPI CEUs
Dates: January 11 - 14, 2011; T-F; 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Where: Center for Workforce Development
Cost: $429

Training will focus on advanced techniques for installing insulation and air sealing with emphasis on utilization of intermittent blower door testing through hands-on exercises. Training is designed for weatherization crew members, auditors, and managers.


Energy Related Mold & Moisture
Qualifies for 4.5 BPI CEUs
Dates: February 10; 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Where: Center for Workforce Development
Cost: $109

Training is primarily designed for weatherization employees and auditors who should be able to recognize and evaluate mold in a home. Training will include identification, testing, health effects, prevention, treatment, and client education related to mold/mildew in the home.

Base Load Measures & Energy Analysis
Qualifies for 4.5 BPI CEUs
Dates: January 12 - 14; 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Where: Center for Workforce Development
Cost: $349

Training will highlight energy analysis techniques, terminology, and assessment of the efficiency and safety of the mechanical systems included in a home's base energy loads.

Educational Demonstration - ECOSEAL Spray

On Wednesday, November 3 at 1:30 pm at 720 S. Eastridge in Nixa, Missouri Insulation will perform a demonstration of a new product called ECOSEAL. It is the latest technology in home energy solutions. The product is a water-based elastomeric spray that seals penetrations and joints in the building envelope, including exterior walls attics and floors.

HBA members are welcome to attend this educational opportunity. To download a map to the demonstration site, click here. For a fact sheet about the ECOSEAL product, click here.

"Hands-On" Course Will Teach You to Use Green Building Scoring Tool for Verification

This "hands-on", one-day course will take place on Thursday, September 30 at the HBA office from 8 am to 4 pm. Special Guest presenter is Rick Kaufmann, CGB and verifier from Laclede Gas in St. Louis. Rick verified more than 100 homes under the Green Building Guidelines. For more information and to register, click here.

BUILDERS AND REMODELERS: Learn to use the scoring tool to have a building/remodeling project verified under the Standard. SUPPLIERS AND SUB-CONTRACTORS: Learn more about what the scoring process requires you to provide to builders/remodelers for verification. If you wish to receive a copy of the NAHB Green Building Standard with your registration, the cost is $30 for HBA members. If you do not need a copy of the Standard, the cost is $20 and includes lunch.

OTC Center for Workforce Development Offering Backflow Prevention Classes

These classes provide professional training in backflow prevention. These courses include backflow prevention assembly tester, repairer, and cross-connection control surveyor. This course includes a certification exam through the American Society of Sanitary Engineering. The ASSE publishes ANSI recognized Professional Qualification Standards (ASSE Series 5000), and ASSE offers a certification to those standards that is recognized by the model plumbing codes in the United States, including the Uniform Plumbing Code. CWD is dedicated to water system safety through plumbing-code compliance and supports the ASSE program

Backflow Prevention Certification This class is to certify those who have never been trained or certified to perform the inspection of cross connection and backflow prevention systems. The ASSE certification exam will be given on the last day of training. Class dates are September 13-17, 8a.m.-5p.m.

Backflow Prevention Re-Certification This class is to re-certify those who were certified to perform the inspection of cross connection control and backflow prevention systems that certification is not more than 60 day expired. Class dates are September 16-17, 8a.m.-5p.m.

Cost is $550 for certification and $250 for recertification. For more information contact Eric Lansdown at the Center for Workforce Development by phone at 417-447-8913 or by e-mail at Lansdowne@otc.edu.

Courses Here to Complete Your Certified Graduate Builder and/or Certified Graduate Remodeler Designations

If you are one of those builder and/or remodeler members pursuing your CGB or CGR designation, you will want to learn more about courses the HBA will be hosting in October and November to help you complete your designation(s). Classes offered include Project Management, Scheduling, Design/Build, and Estimating for Builders and Remodelers. All courses will be taught by James Carr, GMB, CGP, Professor of Construction Management at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. To download the full registration brochure, click here.

Don't Miss These Upcoming Educational Programs

The HBA is hosting several important educational opportunities in the coming weeks, with several related to green building.

Learning to Use the Online Green Building Scoring Tool for Verification:

This "hands-on", one-day course will take place on Thursday, September 30 at the HBA office from 8 am to 4 pm. Special Guest presenter is Rick Kaufmann, CGB and verifier from Laclede Gas in St. Louis. Rick verified more than 100 homes under the Green Building Guidelines. For more information and to register, click here.

BUILDERS AND REMODELERS: Learn to use the scoring tool to have a building/remodeling project verified under the Standard. SUPPLIERS AND SUB-CONTRACTORS: Learn more about what the scoring process requires you to provide to builders/remodelers for verification. If you wish to receive a copy of the NAHB Green Building Standard with your registration, the cost is $30 for HBA members. If you do not need a copy of the Standard, the cost is $20 and includes lunch.

Energy and Building Codes Training:

On Friday, September 10, you have an opportunity to learn more about changes and updates to energy and building codes from one of the nation's top experts -- Matt Belcher, Belcher Homes.

On September 10, 8:30 am to 11:30 am at the HBA office, Belcher will provide a more in-depth overview of updates to the IECC as well as sharing details about changes to the 2009 IRC. Prepare for the future by taking advantage of this free educational opportunity. Download details about this FREE program by clicking here.

As a technical partner with the University of Missouri’s Center for Sustainable Energy and MU’s Stormwater and Erosion Control Management Education Center, Mr. Belcher educates building industry professionals and governmental administrators on International Building, Mechanical and Energy Conservation Code structure, methodology and application and promoting building practices shown to create homes and developments that are safer, cleaner, more energy-efficient and better for the environment.

As an Energy Star Partner, Mr. Belcher has built homes that provide proven performance through review and testing. Mr. Belcher is also a partner in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building America program and its new Builder’s Challenge Program where homes demonstrate construction that is at least 30% above current International Energy Conservation Codes.

Mr. Belcher serves on the National Association of Homebuilders Board of Directors and NAHB’s Energy and Green Building and Building Codes and Standards sub-committees where he advises on incorporating sustainability into International Building and Energy Conservation Codes. He also serves on NAHB’s Policy Oversight Group for the forthcoming International Green Construction Code (IGCC).

NAHB Designation Courses:

If you are one of those builder and/or remodeler members pursuing your CGB or CGR designation, you will want to learn more about courses the HBA will be hosting in October and November to help you complete your designation(s). Classes offered include Project Management, Scheduling, Design/Build, and Estimating for Builders and Remodelers. All courses will be taught by James Carr, GMB, CGP, Professor of Construction Management at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. To download the full registration brochure, click here.

Codes Training Opportunity with Nationally Recognized Builder/Developer

On Friday, September 10, you have an opportunity to learn more about changes and updates to energy and building codes from one of the nation's top experts -- Matt Belcher, Belcher Homes.

On September 10, 8:30 am to 11:30 am at the HBA office, Belcher will provide a more in-depth overview of updates to the IECC as well as sharing details about changes to the 2009 IRC. Prepare for the future by taking advantage of this free educational opportunity. Download details about this FREE program by clicking here.

As a technical partner with the University of Missouri’s Center for Sustainable Energy and MU’s Stormwater and Erosion Control Management Education Center, Mr. Belcher educates building industry professionals and governmental administrators on International Building, Mechanical and Energy Conservation Code structure, methodology and application and promoting building practices shown to create homes and developments that are safer, cleaner, more energy-efficient and better for the environment.

As an Energy Star Partner, Mr. Belcher has built homes that provide proven performance through review and testing. Mr. Belcher is also a partner in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building America program and its new Builder’s Challenge Program where homes demonstrate construction that is at least 30% above current International Energy Conservation Codes.

Mr. Belcher serves on the National Association of Homebuilders Board of Directors and NAHB’s Energy and Green Building and Building Codes and Standards sub-committees where he advises on incorporating sustainability into International Building and Energy Conservation Codes. He also serves on NAHB’s Policy Oversight Group for the forthcoming International Green Construction Code (IGCC).

"Hands On" Green Building Scoring Tool Class Set for Sept. 30

On Thursday, September 30, we'll take a real house plan and NAHB trained verifiers and certified green professionals will walk you through using the online scoring tool for each section of the National Green Building Standard. One of the St. Louis area's most seasoned verifiers from Laclede Gas, a partner with the St. Louis HBA in its green building program, will also be on hand to provide additional expertise.

The course will take place at the HBA and begin at 8 am, wrapping up around 5 pm. Lunch will be included. The course cost for HBA members who need a copy of the Green Building Standard is $30; for those who do not need the publication the cost is $20. For non-members it is $45 and $40, respectively.

In addition to providing an overview of the transition to the ANSI certified Green Building Standard (from the Guidelines), the one-day course will cover each standard scoring section including:

– Lot Design, Prep and Development

– Resource Efficiency

– Energy Efficiency

– Water Efficiency/Indoor Environmental Quality

– Operation, Maintenance, and Building Owner Education

This course is open to HBA builders, remodelers and associate members. Each segment of the industry will benefit from understanding the steps of the verification process (for new construction and remodeling). Many of you are already building a home that would qualify for at least the bronze level of certification. After this course you'll be well acquainted with the process to verify that performance using the standard.

To register, call Jennifer at 838-1456 or email jennifer@springfieldhba.com

View Free NAHB Appraisal Webinar at HBA on Wednesday, August 4

Builder Guide to Appraisals: Obtaining Accurate Valuations on New Homes

View at HBA Office – Wednesday, Aug. 4, 1pm – 2 pm
RSVP by calling the office at 881-3711

Major changes have occurred in appraisal standards and practices in the wake of housing and financial market turmoil. These shifts present major challenges to home builders in financing and selling their homes. On Wednesday, August 4, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m., a panel of home builder and appraisal practitioners will inform builders on the new appraisal rules and provide advice on what builders can do to improve the accuracy of home valuations.

The program will cover:

Recent changes in appraisal standards and practices.
Requirements for appraisals of new homes.
Communications with lenders and appraisers.
Key information to provide on subject properties.
Tips for dealing with appraisals in distressed markets.
Process for addressing appraisal errors and pursuing reconsideration of values.
Moderator:

Joe Robson, Founder/President, The Robson Companies, NAHB Immediate Past President, Broken Arrow, OK

Panelists:

Marty Mitchell, Mitchell & Best Homebuilders, Rockville, MD
Allen Gardiner, Jackson Claborn, Inc., Plano, TX

This program is brought to you by the Business Management and Information Technology and Housing Finance committees of NAHB, and is sponsored by the generous support of Builder Partnerships.

Check Out OTC's Social Media Courses for Small Businesses

Find out why it's important to be social in today's business world. Discover how tweets, likes and RSS feeds are going to be critical to the future success of your company. We've developed a series of social media classes geared toward small business marketing. Learn how to use Facebook, Twitter and Blogs as marketing tools. The classes are very reasonably priced ranging from $35 to $49.

The video, Social Revolution Refresh, provides some incredible statistics and many reasons why businesses should be using these tools to connect with their customer base.

OTC has recruited experienced social media professionals to share their expertise. Amy Pope, Multimedia Sales Manager at the News-Leader Media Group, will lead the Facebook Marketing classes. Sarah Austin, principal at Austin Creative and head of the Springfield Bloggers Association, will be teaching the Twitter and Blogging for Business classes. For class schedule and registration information, click here. Missed the one you wanted to attend? Similar courses will be offered later this fall -- call 447.8888 for more information.

Rescheduled - Online Green Building Scoring Tool Course

The HBA's Green Building Subcommittee has reformatted and rescheduled the Green Building Online Scoring Tool Course -- it has been condensed into one day and we will also have some expert instructional assistance from Green Building verifiers from St. Louis, as well. Participants will learn to use the online green building scoring tool using a real house plan, plus get familiar with the various requirements and documentation necessary for verification.

Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 30 at the HBA for the full day educational program. The course is open to builders, remodelers and associates. Lunch will be included. If you wish to take the course and receive a copy of the NAHB Green Building Standard, the cost is $30. If you already have a copy of the standard, the cost is only $20. Call the HBA office at 881.3711 to register.

Greening Midwest Communities Conference Set for October 19-20 in Jefferson City

October 19-20, 2010 

Capitol Plaza Hotel

Jefferson City, MO

Registration is NOW open! 

Early Registration Rates Available for a Limited Time! 

Please visit the website at

http://muconf.missouri.edu/gmcc

Join in an unparalleled opportunity to collaborate and learn with building, development, and storm water professionalsacross the Midwest.  This 2-day conference brings together industry, municipal, county, code and agency professionals working in many aspects of community development and energy-efficient/green home building and remodeling. University of Missouri Small Business and Technology Development Centers (SBTDC) Program will be onsite to engage interested attendees in the services offered by this statewide network of business development assistance. 

Learn:

• * what it means to "build green" 

• * how developing, building and remodeling green can sustain and grow the homebuilding and community development industries

• * where to go to find the latest in stormwater and national water quality regulations and the tools to help your business comply

• * why developing, building and remodeling green can offer increased market share AND financial benefits to your business

• * who your next buyer is likely to be 

Lodging:

A block of rooms is being held at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Jefferson City,Missouri. Conference participants are responsible for making their own room reservations by calling Capitol Plaza Hotel. To make reservations call (800) 338-8088 or (573) 635-1234. Reservations are guaranteed if made by September 18, 2010, then on a space-available basis until the conference date. The special conference room rate will be $79 plus tax per night, and up to four may share a room. Be sure to identify yourself as a participant in the Greening Midwest Communities Conference.

Expo Space Available!

Take advantage of this opportunity to reach out to home building and remodeling, development, and storm water professionals from throughout the Midwest. Join us and reserve your space today!

POSTPONED - ONLINE GREEN BUILDING SCORING TOOL CLASS

After receiving feedback about challenges with the schedule and format, the Green Building Committee is postponing the educational series for builders and remodelers entitled: Green Building for Verification - You're Already Doing It. The Committee is in the process of re-tooling the course into a one-day format for the fall. Stay tuned!

Still Time to Sign Up for Sunbelt Environmental Program on Lead Inspection & Assessment

HBA Member Sunbelt Environmental Services will present a program

entitled, "Understanding Lead-Based Paint Risk Assessment and Inspection Services" for general and sub-contractors affected by the RRP rule. The free educational program, presented by senior consultant Bruce Trimble, is scheduled for Wednesday, July 7 at 3 pm at The Library Center. Call the HBA office to register - 881-3711. You can download the full informational flyer by clicking here.

Are You Prepared to Start Handing Out the NEW Renovate Right Brochure?

The EPA has issued a new version of the "Renovate Right" pamphlet that must be distributed by those performing and being compensated for work which falls under the new RRP lead safety rules. This pamphlet reflects changes in the rule which are effective in July including the removal of the "homeowner opt-out" provision. You can download the new pamphlet by clicking here.

Who's In Control of the Client Interview & Price Negotiation?

Brett Baker, Partner of TrustPoint Management Group, is offering a specialty workshop open to all HBA builder and remodeler members on Wednesday, May 26 from 3 pm - 5 pm at the HBA office.

Reserve a spot if the issues below apply to you or you have a desire to take new action when interviewing a potential customer:

-Tired of Profit Margins Shrinking because homebuyers & owners believe they have the power to cut into your fees?

-Frustrated you are doing a lot of educating and sharing ideas; doing unpaid consulting and not getting rewarded with the contract?

-Not understanding how your current belief system can undermine your interview process? You never get the second chance to make that first impression with your expertise.

-Do you spill it too fast?? Have you said to yourself, “I’ve got to cut fees to win the job”?

-Question to ask is, “Could the opposite be true”? If these issues above are costing you from winning the business and your income has to rebound, you would benefit from this workshop.

This program is offered as a benefit of membership at no cost. RSVP to Jennifer at 881-3711 or jennifer@springfieldhba.com

Compliance with the EPA's RRP Rules - Resources for Identifying the Age of a Home

The Greene County Assessor's office does provide on-line access to property information. The site, at www.greenecountymo.org/assessor/, allows users to search for individual property parcels by owner, address, parcel ID or general location. The site offers two levels of access to information about individual parcels. Owner names, address, taxing districts, total acreage, appraised value, assessed value and an interactive aerial map is available through free public access.

Additional property information, include street-level photos, previous owners, building descriptions, perimeter sketches, floor plans, date home was built and other details, is now available through subscription. Subscriptions are available to property appraisers, real estate agents, insurers and the general public for a fee, ranging from $10 a day to $75 a year, plus a $25 set-up fee for an annual subscription. NOTE: All parcel information available by subscription may be accessed by the public for free at computer terminals within the Greene County Assessor’s Office, 940 Boonville Ave. Room 35, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

Another resource mentioned in industry education regarding the need for this information is the website www.intelius.com, under the link for "Verification Services" click on "Property & Neighborhood".

Amendments to EPA's Lead Renovation, Repair & Painting Rule

National Association of Home Builders Summary of Amendments to RRP Rule

On April 23, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced release of an amendment to the Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting rule that removes the opt-out provision for pre-1978 homes without pregnant women or children under age six in residence. The amendment also instructs contractors to provide a copy of the records required under the rule to be shared with home owners within 30 days of completing the remodeling work.

The amendment goes into force 60 days from its publication in the Federal Register, which has not yet occurred. NAHB expects publication in the Federal Register sometime in the next few weeks, so the estimated effective date to remove the opt-out is the beginning of July. Once the exact date is determined, NAHB will update its members.

Nevertheless, all provisions of the Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting rule went into effect on April 22, which requires remodelers and other contractors disturbing painted surfaces in pre-1978 homes attend the required training and submit firm certification. The rule also dictates lead-safe work practices, pre-renovation consumer education, and record keeping practices.

The amendment to the rule goes into effect in July 2010 and:

· Removes the opt-out provision. Under the current rule, owner-occupied pre-1978 housing units (i.e., not inclusive of rental properties) where no pregnant women nor children under age six, nor a property qualifying as a “child occupied facility” (such as a day care facility) could sign a waiver. The remodelers must keep a record of the waiver for three years, which waives the implementation of the work practices dictated by the rule. The new amendment to the regulation that goes into effect in July revokes the opt-out completely. All work in pre-1978 must then follow all work practices dictated by the regulation as of the effective date in July.

· Requires remodelers to share rule compliance records with customers. Remodelers will have to share a copy of the compliance records required for remodelers under the regulation (such as the checklist of followed practices) with home owners within 30 days of completion of the work.

The EPA has also given advanced notice of additional plans to change the lead rule as a direct result of a voluntary legal settlement with several environmental groups that challenged the original regulation. Specifically, rule makings will be conducted to:

· Require abatement-style dust wipe testing and share results with home occupants and owners. This rule change will apply to certain remodeling activities and require the contractor to achieve the EPA’s strict numerical limits for lead dust levels on window sills, window troughs, and floors. The EPA’s numerical lead dust standards are the same as those dictated to lead-based paint abatement firms for achieving “clearance” under EPA’s abatement rules. Depending on the outcome of this upcoming amendment, remodelers and other contractors may also be subject to additional regulatory restrictions at the state and local level triggered by the knowledge of disturbing lead-based paint. After this proposal is published, it will be out for a 60 day comment period with the goal of completing and finalizing this rule change in July 2011.

· Apply the lead rule to public and commercial buildings. The EPA plans to amend the rule to expand its scope over both public and commercial buildings. NAHB will follow this development but expects the proposal to come out after the clearance testing amendment.

Rule Enforcement

EPA Assistant Administrator Owens visited the NAHB Remodelers Board of Trustees meeting last week to answer questions about the lead paint regulation effective April 22. He explained that the EPA will not take enforcement action against firms that in good faith submitted firm certification paperwork before April 22 but have not received official approval yet from EPA. A copy of the letter is available for download. However, the EPA will still be taking enforcement actions against parties that fail to follow work practices in pre-1978 homes.

Future Actions

NAHB is closely following the continuing actions of the EPA to amend the rule and will be commenting and asking members to submit comments on proposed rule changes.

On May 20 at 2 pm EDT, NAHB is hosting a webinar free for members about the lead rule, removal of the opt-out, and guidance for remodelers on managing requirements of the rule. Registration for this event will be available shortly.

For more information, visit www.nahb.org/leadpaint or contact Matt Watkins at 800-368-5242 x8327.

Blunt Meeting About EPA Lead Rule Draws a Crowd

Congressman Roy Blunt met with a room full of remodelers, sub-contractors and suppliers at the HBA office on Tuesday, April 2oth. Blunt listened to industry concerns about the EPA's lagging efforts to provide adequate training resources will severely limit the number of remodelers able to work in older homes or force home owners to hire illegal contractors. As well, on-going changes to the rule during the training phase, especially regarding the homeowner opt-out provision, created tremendous confusion and is an obstacle to compliance.

"An NAHB study shows that professional remodelers leave a home cleaner than when they begin work," said Rusty MacLachlan, HBA President. "Educated, professional remodelers are the best equipped to help prevent lead exposure. However, the lack of certified remodelers will put home owners and their families at greater risk of lead exposure."

Professional remodelers are also concerned that consumers will balk at the higher costs associated with rule compliance and will risk exposure to lead paint by attempting the work themselves or using an uncertified fly-by-night contractor to cut costs.

"If a homeowner is not already well-informed about what to ask for in terms of proof of certification, etc., the rule won’t help catch the shady contractors who really have no intention of complying, who don’t carry liability insurance and don’t pull permits – and therefore can provide a lower estimate for the work," said MacLachlan. According to a number of industry seminars and conference calls, looking at permitting activity is one way EPA will approach enforcement.

Blunt said he had already sent a letter to the EPA encouraging an administrative delay in the rule but at the time, he had not received a response from the agency. Many thanks to HBA member Alside for providing examples of related equipment and visual aids for the meeting. Due to industry demand, the HBA has added two more Lead Safety Certification Courses on May 25 and 26. To download the most current registration form, click here.

Demand for Lead Safety Class Continues - More Classes Added

The demand for the EPA required lead renovator training class continues as the April 22 deadline approaches. The HBA has scheduled two more classes with the EPA accredited trainer -- Wednesday, May 5 (click to download registration form) and Wednesday, May 12 (click to download registration form). Both classes will be held at the Meek's Design Center, 3231 N. Glenstone in Springfield.

Citing a need for more trainers and a faster certification process, inaccurate test kits and a lack of preparedness on the part of the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) petitioned EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson this week to delay the Lead: Repair, Renovation and Painting Program Rule.

The rule, slated to become effective April 22, requires all remodelers and other contractors working in homes built before 1978 to be trained and certified in lead-safe work practices and to use those practices in homes where small children or pregnant women live. EPA is also seeking to amend the regulation so that it would apply to all pre-1978 homes.

“NAHB and its builder and remodeler members fully support with the goals of the rule, which is designed to protect children from the toxic effects of lead paint,” said NAHB Remodelers Chairman Donna Shirey, CGR, CAPS, CGP, and President of Shirey Contracting in Issaquah, Wash.

“Remodelers are working hard to get trained and certified under the EPA’s lead rule. But we continue to receive calls that they can’t find training and are waiting to hear back from the EPA on certification. It’s incredibly frustrating that despite our diligence, remodelers will be penalized after April 22 because of the EPA’s failure to plan,” Shirey said.

For the full NAHB news release regarding this testimony, click here.

More Lead Safety Courses Scheduled & Webinar on EPA Required Lead Safety Practices

The HBA has scheduled additional courses for the EPA's Certified Renovator program. There are courses scheduled for May 3 and 4, as well as May 10 and 11. The 3rd and 10th are at the HBA and the 4th and 11th are at OTC's Center for Workforce Development. You can download the updated registration form by clicking here.

There is a free informational webinar at the HBA this Wednesday, March 24 at 1 pm entitled "Lead Paint 2010: Is Your Company Really Ready?" To RSVP, please email jennifer@springfieldhba.com.

While the EPA has been quoted in various sources as projecting that the costs of interior containment, cleaning, and cleaning verification will range from $8 to $167 per job, a new study published this month by Remodeling Magazine, "How Much Will the RRP Cost" by Sal Alfano, indicates the cost will be as much as 10 times higher than the EPA estimates. You can read the full on-line version of the article (including detailed cost charts) by clicking here.

One of the issues regarding the Lead Paint rule that's been confusing to the industry is the ability of the homeowner to "opt-out" of the safety procedures. The "opt-out" provision was originally part of the RRP rule but after a law suit related to it, it is being removed/changed. For more background and information, see the Journal of Light Construction on-line article, "Uncertainty Abounds as Lead-Safe Remodeling Deadline Nears," by clicking here.

In Response to Demand, HBA Schedules Additional Lead Safe Renovator Certification Courses

In response to increased demand, the HBA has scheduled additional EPA-Required Lead Safety Renovator Certification Courses on April 29 and 30. Currently, the HBA sponsored courses scheduled for March 19 and April 19 - April 22 are all full. The April 29 course will be held in Springfield and the April 30 course is scheduled to be held in Branson (download registration form by clicking here.)

The NAHB recently encouraged the federal government to extend the April 22 deadline for Lead Renovator certification. In testimony last Thursday before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Connecticut remodeler Bob Hanbury said that rules effective April 22 governing contractors in homes where lead paint may be present will prevent meaningful retrofit work from being done because there won't be enough certified renovation contractors trained in the federal Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) new Lead Safe Work Practices.

The Senate is considering legislation that includes the proposed Home Star program, designed to provide home owner incentives for insulation and other weatherization projects. NAHB economists estimate that every $1 billion in remodeling and home improvement activity generates 11,000 jobs, $527 million in wages and salaries, and $300 million in business income, making these incentives a big boost for the economy as well as energy efficiency.

"NAHB strongly supports incentives to retrofit older homes and buildings to improve energy efficiency and performance," Hanbury said. "But to make such a program work, the April 22 deadline for compliance with the EPA lead rule must be extended."

Roughly 79 million homes constructed before 1978 are subject to the Lead Renovation, Repair and Repainting Rule, Hanbury said. Renovations on these homes, including energy-efficiency upgrades, must be done by contractors who have been certified by EPA in lead-safe work practices.

However, EPA has not approved enough instructors for the required training programs and has not certified enough firms to do the renovation work that the proposed energy efficiency program would generate.

"Consumer awareness of this regulation is negligible at best, and with the intensive media coverage that will undoubtedly accompany Home Star, home owners will rush to call contractors to perform efficiency upgrades in older housing, not realizing that many of those contractors could be doing the work illegally if they are not EPA certified," Hanbury pointed out.

EPA has estimated that more than 236,000 remodelers, window installers, painters, heating and air-conditioning specialists and other trade contractors must be trained to ensure compliance with the rule. These contractors must complete eight hours of training, pay a certification fee, and employ lead-safe work practices in homes built before 1978 where children or pregnant women are present.

However, EPA has been slow to approve trainers to offer the courses, and in some states there are still no approved trainers. As a result, only about 14,000 people have been certified to date.

With only 135 firms throughout the country approved to offer the training courses, it will be impossible for the remaining contractors to complete the required training before the April 22 deadline, Hanbury said. And an influx of new retrofit jobs under a Home Star-style program would only increase the demand for trained and certified contractors.

"NAHB looks forward to working with you to create a successful retrofit program that provides equal access for all qualified and properly-trained contractors and a true incentive to renovate the oldest, least-efficient housing stock," Hanbury told the committee.

"We also support the lead paint rule and fully agree with the importance of the safe work practices the rule describes," Hanbury said. "But at present, it looks like the only way that many of our members will be able to comply is to avoid working in these older homes so we don't break the law. In an environment where improving energy efficiency and creating jobs are national priorities, that makes no sense at all."

EPA Required Safety Certification Training Courses Nearly Full

These HBA-sponsored classes are nearly full -- there are just a few openings left for Wednesday, April 21 and Thursday, April 22. Need to register? Call or email Amanda at the HBA office, 881-3711 or amanda@springfieldhba.com

What Activities Are Subject to the Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program?
In general, any activity that disturbs paint in pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities, including:
• Remodeling and repair/maintenance
• Electrical work
• Plumbing
• Painting
• Carpentry
• Window replacement

What Housing or Activities Are Excluded and Not Subject to the Rule?
• Housing built in 1978 or later.
• Housing for elderly or disabled persons, unless children under 6 reside or are expected to reside there.
• Zero-bedroom dwellings (studio apartments, dormitories, etc.).
• Housing or components declared lead-free by a certified inspector or risk assessor.
• Minor repair and maintenance activities that disturb 6 square feet or less of paint per room inside, or 20 square feet or less on the exterior of a home or building.
• Note: minor repair and maintenance activities do not include window replacement and projects involving demolition or prohibited practices.

What Does the Program Require Me To Do?
Pre-renovation education requirements - Effective now.
In housing, you must:
• Distribute EPA’s lead pamphlet to the owner and occupants before renovation starts.
• In a child-occupied facility, you must:
• Distribute the lead pamphlet to the owner of the building or an adult representative of the child-occupied facility before the renovation starts.
For work in common areas of multi-family housing or child-occupied facilities, you must:
• Distribute renovation notices to tenants or parents/guardians of the children attending the child-occupied facility. Or you must post informational signs about the renovation or repair job.
•Informational signs must:
•Be posted where they will be seen;
•Describe the nature, locations, and dates of the renovation; and
•Be accompanied by the lead pamphlet or by information on how parents and guardians can get a free copy (see page 31 for information on obtaining copies).
•Obtain confirmation of receipt of the lead pamphlet (see page 23) from the owner, adult representative, or occupants (as applicable), or a certificate of mailing from the post office.
•Retain records for three years.
Note: Pre-renovation education requirements do not apply to emergency renovations. Emergency renovations include interim controls performed in response to a resident child with an elevated blood-lead level.

Training, Certification, and Work Practice Requirements– Effective after April 22, 2010.
•Firms must be certified.
•Renovators must be trained.
•Lead-safe work practices must be followed. Examples of these practices include:
•Work-area containment to prevent dust and debris from leaving the work area.
•Prohibition of certain work practices like open-flame burning and the use of power tools without HEPA exhaust control.
•Thorough clean up followed by a verification procedure to minimize exposure to lead-based paint hazards.
The training, certification, and work practice requirements do not apply where the firm obtained a signed statement from the owner that all of the following are met:
•The renovation will occur in the owner’s residence;
•No child under age 6 resides there;
•No woman who is pregnant resides there;
•The housing is not a child-occupied facility; and
•The owner acknowledges that the renovation firm will not be required to use the work practices contained in the rule.

For more information, visit the EPA's website regarding this new rule as it applies to residential contractors by clicking here

Early Bird Deadline End of This Week for Greening Missouri Homes Conference

March 16-17, 2010

Capitol Plaza Hotel

Jefferson City, MO

CLICK HERE FOR 

REGISTRATION, SCHEDULE, AND MORE!

The University of Missouri-Center for Sustainable Energy in partnership with The Home Builders Associations of St. Louis, Jefferson City, Kansas City and Springfield is delighted to invite you to attend the Greening Missouri Homes Conference; March 16th & 17th in Jefferson City, MO.

A national survey of HBA members indicates that the vast majorities have some level of involvement with Green Building and Remodeling. Through the National Association of Homebuilder’s National Green Building Program (NAHB GREEN) HBAs and talented staff work hard to stay atop housing trends, to provide education for members along with others involved in the Housing and Housing retrofit and remodeling industry. With the Evolution of Building Codes and the Creation of the National Green Building Standard, advancing the experience of those involved with the Housing Industry to safely and economically Develop-Build-Retrofit Missouri’s Housing stock is a top priority!

The University of Missouri and the Home Building Associations across the State encourage you to register for this informative Conference and Networking opportunity to promote Better, Affordable, Greener Home Building, Retrofit and Development.

We are very thankful for the resources of the sponsors who make this conference possible.

Dr. Robert Reed, P.E., PhD, Co-Director
University of Missouri Center for Sustainable Energy

Matt Belcher, Chairman
Greening Missouri Homes Conference

MU Conference Office © 2010

"Ask A Remodeler" Segment to Air on KY3 in March

At its February meeting, the HBA Remodelors Council received an update about Legislative Day from Government Affairs Chairman Matt Bailey who encouraged all remodelers to attend Legislative Day on February 23rd. The Council also discussed the EPA Lead Safety Certification Classes being hosted by the HBA. All of the Council-member remodelers will have attended the course by March 12th. Classes are scheduled for March 4, 5 and 11 at the Springfield Contractors Association and the final class is set for March 12 at OTC's Workforce Development Center. (Space is limited! Get your registration in ASAP -- download form by clicking here.) The Council will focus its April meeting on discussing the course and how best to implement all of the changes and most cost-effectively obtain the necessary supplies.

Andy Flint, Chairman, notified the Council that Cara Restelli with KY3 had contacted him about having an “Ask A Remodeler” segment on the 5:00 and 6:00 newscast on KY3 on March 10th. Remodelors Council members Shannon Lee, Scott Bracy, Adrian Rhoads, Chris Oberhansley and Andy Flint volunteered to appear on the “Ask A Remodeler” segment.

Lead Safety Class Certifies 30

The HBA sponsored EPA Lead Safety Certification classes are underway and the remaining classes are filling up fast. Above, HBA Remodeler Member Adrian Rhoads, Rhoads Design & Construction, was among the 30 attendees of the February 5 class conducted by Titan Environmental Services at the Safety Council of the Ozarks training room. The one day class provides instruction and hands-on training to prepare firms for compliance with new EPA rules related to disturbing painted surfaces in homes built before 1978. Those who complete the course successfully are then "certified" to work under the circumstances set forth in the newly expanded regulations for pre-1978 homes. Application for firm certification must also be made to the EPA.

Additional classes are scheduled on March 4, 5, and 11 at the Springfield Contractors Association's training room. The March 12 class will be conducted at OTC's Workforce Development Center. You can download the class registration form by clicking here or call Amanda at the HBA office for more information, 881.3711.

If you have questions about this new rule, effective April 22 of this year, visit the EPA's website regarding these new contractor requirements by clicking here.

HBA will Host EPA Required Lead Renovator Certification Training

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's "Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting" rule governing renovation in homes where there is lead-based paint will take effect in April 2010.

The rule addresses remodeling and renovation projects disturbing more than six square feet of potentially contaminated painted surfaces for all residential and multifamily structures built prior to 1978 that are inhabited or frequented by pregnant women and children under the age of six. As well, the rule applies to certain non-residential structures built prior to 1978 including schools and any child-related facility. Renovator training/firm certification will be required for those working on projects meeting these criteria. The HBA is hosting six of these one-day training courses, taught by an EPA accredited training firm, in the coming weeks at various locations. To download the training registration form click here.

The rule requires a cleaning inspection after the work is completed and grants the remodeler flexibility in determining the size of the work area, which can reduce the size of the area subject to containment.

The EPA rule also lists prohibited work practices ― including open-torch burning and using high-heat guns and high-speed equipment such as grinders and sanders unless equipped with a HEPA filter.

Additionally, the rule establishes required lead-safe work practices, including posting warning signs for occupants and visitors; using disposable plastic drop cloths; cleaning the work area with HEPA vacuuming and wet washing; and individual certification through a training course.

The full rule and brochures for consumers and renovators can be downloaded from the EPA’s Web site by clicking here.

A 2006 NAHB study on lead-safe work practices showed that a home was better off after a remodel than before, as long as the work was performed by trained remodelers who clean the work area with HEPA-equipped vacuums, wet washing and disposable drop cloths.

Summary of the Rule:

Review the points below for a quick summary of the new EPA lead paint rule.

1. Training and Certification

Beginning in April 2010, firms working in pre-1978 homes will need to be certified. Along with the firm certification, an employee will also need to be certified as a Certified Renovator. This employee will be responsible for training other employees and overseeing work practices and cleaning. The training curriculum is an eight-hour class with two hours of hands-on training. Both the firm and Certified Renovator certifications are valid for five years. A Certified Renovator must take a four-hour refresher course to be recertified.

2. Work Practices

Once work starts on a pre-1978 renovation, the Certified Renovator has a number of responsibilities. Before the work starts this person will post warning signs outside the work area and supervise setting up containment to prevent spreading dust. The rule lists specific containment procedures for both interior and exterior projects. It forbids certain work practices including open flame or torch burning, use of a heat gun that exceeds 1100°F, and high-speed sanding and grinding unless the tool is equipped with a HEPA exhaust control. Once the work is completed, the regulation specifies cleaning and waste disposal procedures. Clean up procedures must be supervised by a certified renovator.

3. Verification and Record Keeping

After clean up is complete the certified renovator must verify the cleaning by matching a cleaning cloth with an EPA verification card. If the cloth appears dirtier or darker than the card the cleaning must be repeated.

A complete file of records on the project must be kept by the certified renovator for three years. These records include, but aren't limited to: verification of owner/occupant receipt of the Renovate Right pamphlet or attempt to inform, documentation of work practices, Certified Renovator certification, and proof of worker training. NAHB believes that record keeping will be a major enforcement tool for the regulation.

4. Exemptions

It is important to note that these work practices may be waived under these conditions:

-The home or child occupied facility was built after 1978.
-The repairs are minor, with interior work disturbing less than six square feet or exteriors disturbing less than 20 square feet being exempt.
-The homeowner may also opt out by signing a waiver if there are no children under age six frequently visiting the property, no one in the home is pregnant, or the property is not a child-occupied facility. EPA has proposed removing this opt-out from the rule.
-If the house or components test lead free by a Certified Risk Assessor, Lead Inspector or Certified Renovator

Important Deadlines

December 2008:
Remodelers must start distributing the new EPA pamphlet Renovate Right when working in pre-1978 houses.
April 2009:
Training providers may begin applying for accreditation. Once training providers are accredited, they may offer training courses that will allow renovators to become certified.
October 2009:
Renovation firms may begin applying to EPA for certification.
April 2010:
New rule becomes fully effective. Work practices must be followed.

Will You Need to Be In Compliance with EPA's New Lead Paint Rules?

In February and March, the HBA will be hosting the Lead Safety Renovation Training course locally on six different dates, taught by an EPA accredited training firm. Does this rule affect you? Do you need the training? Does your firm need to be certified? See the Q & A below and for a more full explanation of the rule and its requirements, download information by clicking here. For training course registration form (includes the dates and locations of the scheduled classes) click here.

What Is the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Program (RRP)?

• The Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Program is a federal regulatory program affecting

contractors, property managers, and others who disturb painted surfaces.

• It applies to residential houses, apartments, and child-occupied facilities such as schools and day-care centers built before 1978.

• It includes pre-renovation education requirements as well as training, certification, and work practice

requirements.

Who Must Follow the 2008 Lead Rule’s Requirements?

In general, anyone who is paid to perform work that disturbs paint in housing and child-occupied facilities built before 1978, this may include, but is not limited to:

-Residential rental property owners/managers

-General contractors

-Special trade contractors, including

•Painters

•Plumbers

•Carpenters

•Electricians

•HVAC