Step by Step
Thank You!
Published by the Remodelers Council of Lincoln • October 2010
The Remodelers Council Golf Committee would like to thank the following people for volunteering at the tournament in August. Jeff Sweney, Reese Construction, Inc.; Tom Hegarty, Factory Direct Appliance; Luann Kobza, Travis Barney, Eric Ebeler and Shannon Dohmen, Union Title Company; Sam Stoltz, Lincoln Winnelson Co.; Michele Williamson, Habitat for Humanity and Jenny Samek, Briggs, Inc. of Lincoln.
Chairperson’s Message by Lori Pippitt
The seasons have begun to change, our days are shorter, our nights are getting cooler and leaves are starting to fall from the trees. Much like the leaves, interest rates for homes keep falling and are at record lows. Now is a great time to refinance, lower your payments and put that money back into a home renovation! Many current owners are taking advantage of the tax credits and are replacing windows, doors and upgrading insulation. Others are reinvesting their equity into a master bathroom, kitchen or basement finishing project. Unfinished or needed home improvements are at the forefront of people’s minds and we can only hope their pocketbooks as well! Mark your calendars for our next meeting on October 6. We will be having a quick lunch at Valentino’s on 35th and Holdrege followed by a tour of Keim Hall on East Campus. Keim Hall recently underwent two years of renovations, which earned them a Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design certification from the US Green Building Council. The green efforts on this project included diverting 81% of construction waste away from the landfill and 20% of materials used on the renovations were of recycled content! Last month I was honored to attend the Better Business Bureau Integrity Award Luncheon. On behalf of the Lincoln Remodelers Council, I accepted the BBB Integrity Award. It is the integrity of what our association stands for and the reputations of how you, our members are serving the community, which won us this prestigious award! Give yourself a pat on the back!!!
October Meeting Lunch on your own at Valentino’s (35th & Holdrege)
followed by a tour of Keim Hall (East Campus)
Wednesday, October 6, 2010 11:30 a.m. Please send your RSVP to info@hbal.org or call 423-4225 by Oct. 1 so we know how many tables to hold.
Get Involved If you are interested in being a Remodelers Council Officer, contact Nadine Condello at 423-4225 or Lori Pippitt at 475-0650. 10 Lincoln Business Builder
Attendees of the September Remodelers Council Meeting listen as Julie from The Palace Glass Co. explains how pieces of glass are cut and assembled into a beautiful window.
Step by Step
NAHB Concerned Over EPA’s Continued Use of Faulty Lead Rule Test Kits, Enforcement Plans The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has no plans to discontinue the use of the faulty lead paint test kits available, even though they indicate “false positives” of lead being present by 42-78% of the time, NAHB learned during an Aug. 25 meeting it called to discuss concerns about the implementation and enforcement of the lead paint rule. The EPA has also released interim enforcement guidelines detailing how the agency plans to levy fines against remodelers and other contractors who run afoul of the Lead: Renovation, Repair, and Painting rule. The fines will range from $150 to $37,500 per violation per day, depending upon the severity of the infraction, the EPA said. NAHB called the meeting — the latest in a series the association has held with the agency and other industry groups throughout the year — so that the EPA could provide updates on the lead paint rule and give industry representatives an opportunity to air concerns about its implementation and enforcement. Under the rule, which went into effect on April 22, remodelers and other contractors who work in housing and child-occupied facilities built before 1978 are required to undergo training and certification in order to work in the homes and must employ lead-safe work practices unless the homes are tested and found to be free of any lead paint. About 78 million homes are subject to the new EPA regulation. During the meeting, EPA officials confirmed that second-generation and more reliable test kits would not be available on Sept. 1, as originally planned. The agency said that none of the new test kits reviewed was able to pass the “false positive” requirement indicating the presence of lead and did not know when more accurate kits would become available. NAHB indicated its concern that the use of the three currently recognized and inaccurate test kits will continue to raise the cost of renovation and repair for home owners as remodelers employ leadsafe work practices even though lead may not be present. As posted on the EPA website, the inaccurate kits will remain in use until new kits that meet both the EPA’s negative and positive response criteria are introduced. EPA Training Continues to Fall Short The EPA reported that 449,000 remodelers and contractors had been trained under the lead rule as of mid-August and that 53,000 firms have been certified. However, EPA officials indicated that they were concerned about the low number of firms that had been certified to date and about contractors’ confusion about the individual training and firm certification requirements needed to work in pre-1978 homes. The EPA has continued to receive applications for new lead rule training providers, with more than 200 in the pipeline for review. Currently, about 315 training providers have been approved by the EPA, including 15 online providers. However, EPA officials also told meeting participants that they are investigating the accuracy of some of the training being provided. For example, one trainer was continuing to teach remodelers about the viability of the opt-out rule — where home owners could sign a waiver under certain circumstances. The opt-out rule expired on July 6. The EPA has requested that remodelers contact the National Lead Information Center at 800-424-5323 with any complaints or concerns about lead rule training so that the agency can correct any problems. In response to NAHB concerns that Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) general work site safety regulations may conflict with lead-safe work practices — for example, slipping hazards while using plastic sheeting — EPA representatives said OSHA has reviewed the rule and, while not noting conflicts in the regulations, has suggested changes to the training material. These changes will be incorporated when EPA updates its training material, the officials said.
OSHA offices with questions about safety under the lead rule and OSHA inspections. EPA Enforcement Procedures Not Finalized EPA officials have released a interim enforcement plan detailing the fines it will levy against contractors for violating the lead rule. The nature of the offense; the contractor’s record, including previous offenses; and the contractor’s willingness to correct issues would all be factored into the severity of the fine, officials said. EPA officials also said that some regional offices are investigating enforcement actions against remodelers after receiving tips on potential violations. In addition, building officials in some jurisdictions have begun to deny permits to firms that have been unable to provide proof that they earned the proper certification under the rule. The EPA is “encouraging people to ask questions, but not necessarily deny permits.” said the EPA’s Michelle Price. Ten states have adopted the lead rule and have assumed implementation and enforcement responsibilities, with Georgia, Rhode Island and Massachusetts the most recent ones to implement the regulation. Most of the states have instituted identical requirements of the federal rule, but some — such as Rhode Island, which plans to require clearance testing for completed remodeling projects in homes that test positive for lead — may enforce stricter rules and levy larger certification fees. In Minnesota, contractors must show proof of EPA lead paint certification before renewing their business licenses. NAHB will continue to monitor the implementation and enforcement of the lead paint rule and keep members apprised. For more information on the lead paint rule, visit www.nahb.org/ leadpaint; or e-mail Matt Watkins at NAHB, or call him at 800-3685242 x8327.
WasteCap Nebraska Forms Partnership to Offer Free Mercury Thermostat Recycling In partnership with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (NDHHS) & the Thermostat Recycling Corporation (TRC), WasteCap Nebraska has begun to collect mercury-switch thermostats for safe disposal at their location on 285 South 68th Street Place, Suite 540, in Lincoln. Intact, mercury-containing thermostats are accepted at no charge (FREE). No digital units are accepted. Note: thermostats can also be dropped off at the HBAL Office at 6100 S. 58th Street, Ste. C.
Until then, remodelers are urged to contact their regional EPA or
11 Lincoln Business Builder
OSHA 10 Hour Training
HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF LINCOLN
OSHA 10 Hour Training December 7 & 8, 2010
SCC Lincoln Continuing Education Center 301 South 68th Street Place, Lincoln, NE Tuesday, December 7 • 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Wednesday, December 8 • 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. This 10-hour course follows the OSHA requirements for certification.
Important Information regarding cost:
Goals:
• Help your company comply with OSHA Health & Safety requirements • Improve the safety culture and practice in the worksite • Reduce work related injuries & increase employee awareness • Decrease worker comp claims, both number and dollar • Decrease employee turnover and training costs for new employees
Topics will include:
• Introduction to OSHA with Four High Hazards • Trench and Excavation Safety • Confined Space • Personal Protective Equipment • Electrical Safety • Health Hazards in Construction • Fall Protection • Hand and Power Tools • Scaffolds • Ladders and Stairways
HBAL has applied for a grant to cover the cost of the training. We will know if our request was approved by November 1, 2010. If approved, the OSHA 10 Hour training will be free for HBAL members. If the grant is not approved, the cost will be $145 per person for HBAL members and $175 per person for non-members. The class is limited to 25 people. Registrations will be taken on a firstcome first-serve basis, so get your reservation in as soon as possible. HBAL members will receive priority over non-members until October 1, 2010. A $25 deposit is required to reserve a space. If the grant is accepted, you will be reimbursed this amount when you attend the session. If the grant is not accepted, it will be applied to the fee of $145 for HBAL members and $175 for non-members. Class size limited to 25 people.
OSHA 10-Hour Training Registration Form
_____ HBAL Member: $145*
_____ Non-member: $175*
Name ____________________________________ Company _____________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________________________________________________ City ______________________________________ State _______ Zip _______________________________________ Phone _____________________________ Fax ____________________________ E-mail _______________________ Payment must accompany registration in order to reser ve a seat for you. Check Enclosed_____ VISA / Mastercard___________________________ Exp. Date_______ Name on card______________________ Fax to 402-423-4251 • E-mail to info@hbal.org. • Mail to HBAL • 6100 S. 58th Street, Ste. C • Lincoln, NE 68516 *Please see above information regarding grant application.
12 Lincoln Business Builder
Bob Nohavec Plumbing
420-1552
Service • Remodeling • New Construction Free Estimates Bob Nohavec, Master Plumber 3400 S. 6th Street, Lincoln, NE 68502
A & D Auto-Truck Service
“Your Total Vehicle Service & Repair Center”
Special discount for HBAL Members! 10% discount on a service or repair First-time customers only.
“We Specialize in Fleet Service and Repair.” Open: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Phone: 464-3211 5940 Colfax Avenue
13 Lincoln Business Builder
West Gate Bank is Lincoln’s Bank
for Mortgage and
Construction Loans
Scott Williamson
Susan Bredthauer
Adam Flanagan
Vice President Mortgage Lender 323-6521
Vice President Mortgage Lender 434-3473
Construction Lender 323-8968
Whether you’re building, buying, or refinancing, choose West Gate Bank for your home loan. Contact one of West Gate Bank’s experienced lenders or go to www.westgatebank.com to get started on your home loan today. www.westgatebank.com | 434-3456 | member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender
West Gate Bank
LincoLn’s Bank
14 Lincoln Business Builder
When it comes to cabinetry, Millard Lumber offers a vast and diverse selection. Whether it’s a color, finish, or look, Millard Lumber has the solution to any builder or contractors needs. Stop by our Design Center today for design assistance and free estimates. Millard Lumber also offers installation for all cabinets and hardware. 11200 N. 148th St., Waverly NE
402.786.3030
M-F 7:30am - 5pm
Certified New Home Sales
Unlock Your Sales Potential! Certified New Home Sales
November 3-5, 2010 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
is NAHB ting n SCC Continuing Education Center discout fe es 301 S. 68th Street Place en stud mber, so Lincoln, NE e in Nov passing NAHB Members $375 $325 we’re ings on v a Non-member $425 $375 the s ou!! to y Earn 9 hrs. of CE Credit from the Nebraska Real Estate Commission (Course # 0601)
Cancellations: If you cancel within 24 hours of the class, you will forfeit $100 of your class fee. Certified New Home Sales is approved for the following: Designation Credit: CSP, Master CSP Continuing Education Credit: CAPS, CGA, CGB, CGR, GMB, CSP, Master CSP, CMP, MIRM
For more information, contact Jennie at 402-423-4225.
Shawn McGuire, GRI, CRS, CSP Sales Manager / Broker Celebrity Homes
My name is Shawn McGuire I am the Sales Manager / Broker of Celebrity Homes in Omaha, Nebraska. I have been both a Sales Representative and Manager for Celebrity Homes over the past 16 years.
Course Description Master the craft of successful selling. This professional-level course is designed for specialists in new home sales. You will gain a broad understanding of the home building business, discuss consumer psychology, and learn the advanced techniques used by real estate veterans for greeting, closing and overcoming objections. As a graduate of this four-part course, you will be able to define and describe the: • Qualifications and characteristics of a new home salesperson • Differences between selling new homes and resale homes • Role of the Critical Path to Successful Selling in the new home sales environment • Basic steps of the builder’s decision making and development process • Basic construction features that benefit the home buyer • Builder’s marketing approach and the impact the new home salesperson has in the marketing process • Impact of consumer behavior on the new home selling process • Basic elements of effective communications in the selling environment • Importance of prospecting in searching for and qualifying potential buyers • Legal aspects of the real estate business and fair housing guidelines You will also gain the following skills: • Greeting and qualifying a prospective buyer • Using the area and community as selling point • Successfully demonstrating the product • Handling objections • Reducing the process to writing • Successful closing • Basic new home financing • Using follow-up systems to increase sales • Final walk-through and call-back procedures
Duties include: Recruiting & maintaining a cohesive sales force, continuous sales training, marketing and advertising, maintaining sales / loan processing / closing systems, and doing my best to represent my seller. My hobbies include boating, bicycling, golf, and trying to keep my lawn mowed. I love to read anything associated with sales/marketing and, believe it or not, politics. I have been married for 24 years to my wife Donna, and we have 3 children: Shayne who is attending Northwest Missouri State College / Kyle who is attending University of Nebraska at Kearney / Bridgette who is just learning how to drive.
Certified New Home Sales Registration Form _____ NAHB Member: $375
$325
Reg ist Dea ration Octo dline: ber 15
$375
_____ Non-member: $425
Name _________________________________________ Company ____________________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ City ____________________________________________ State _________ Zip____________________________________________ Phone _________________________________ Fax ________________________________ E-mail __________________________ Bill Me (HBAL Members Only)_____
Check Enclosed_____
VISA / Mastercard______________________________
Exp. Date___________
Name on card____________________________
Fax to 402-423-4251 • E-mail to info@hbal.org. • Mail to HBAL • 6100 S. 58th Street, Ste. C • Lincoln, NE 68516
15 Lincoln Business Builder
Safety Rules & Regulations for Trucks, Pickups & Trailers | Adult CPR/AED & Standard First Aid
Safety Rules & Regulations for Trucks, Pickups & Trailers
Lay Responder Adult CPR/AED and Standard First Aid
Speaker: Investigator Jessica Kitchell
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Registration: 7:30 a.m. Class: 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Registration & Lunch: 12:00 p.m. Seminar: 12:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Red Cross • Cornhusker Chapter Office 220 Oakcreek Drive
Carrier Enforcement Division, Nebraska State Patrol
(includes question & answer period)
Cornhusker Bank • Community Room 63rd & Hwy 2
$10 per person (includes lunch) DID YOU KNOW? • Fines and civil penalties can be as high as $500 per violation. Violations may compound on a daily basis. • The driver may be ticketed and the owner of the vehicle may receive a civil penalty for safety violations. • Vehicle and/or driver can be placed out of service with violations.
THINGS YOU WILL LEARN • Vehicle size limits • Commercial vehicle weight limits • Commercial vehicle licensing • Safety regulations • Commercial vehicle registration requirements
Attend this seminar and make sure you, your drivers and your vehicles are in compliance with the law. Fax to 423-4251, call 423-4225 or e-mail info@hbal.org
$70 per person
(includes coffee/rolls & lunch)
THINGS YOU WILL LEARN • Recognizing and caring for injuries of sudden illnesses, including use of an AED, until advanced medical care can take over. • Handling emergency situations, breathing and cardiac emergencies, adult CPR, basic disease transmission precautions, identifying and caring for life-threatening bleeding, sudden illness and injuries. • How to use an AED for victims of sudden cardiac arrest.
Meets OSHA Guidelines for First Aid. Lay Responder CPR/AED certification is for 1 year. First Aid certification is for 3 years.
Fax to 423-4251, call 423-4225 or e-mail info@hbal.org CPR, AED & First Aid - $70 per person Company: ______________________________ Name(s): _______________________________ _______________________________________ _______________________________________
Do Business with a Member...
Safety Rules & Regulations - $10 per person Company: ______________________________ Name(s): _______________________________ _______________________________________ _______________________________________
QUALITY P PROFESSIONAL P SERVICE 253 M Road Douglas NE 68344 402.432.1364 Matt 402.499.9607 Sandi
matt@larsenpaintinginc.com sandi@larsenpaintinginc.com www.larsenpaintinginc.com 19 Lincoln Business Builder