Industry News & Press Releases
New Houston Residential Energy Conservation Code Effective January 6, 2012
In compliance with Rule 19-53 of the Texas Administrative Code, the City of Houston adopted amendments to the residential portions of the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code. This code will regulate one and two family dwellings and multi-family structures three stories in height or less. The Houston Energy Conservation Code will become effective on January 6, 2012 and all permit applications submitted after the effective date will be required to comply with the new code. Download a copy of the new code amendments here. For questions regarding this code, please contact the Customer Assistance and Code Development Office at 832-394-9040.
Change in Law on Certificates of Insurance for 2012
A new law went into effect January 1, 2012 regarding certificates of insurance. After January 1, 2012, SB 425 requires that all certificate of insurance forms be approved by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) before the form can be used to certify insurance. The insurance industry is still awaiting administrative rules from TDI to implement the law. However, in the absence of the procedural rules, please see this detailed information on the change in law. The ACORD 25 form, which is widely used in business as a standard certificate, has already been approved. Company or industry specific forms, however, will have to be approved by TDI. As an alternative, a company can agree to accept the ACORD 25 form as evidence of casualty insurance.
Fee Increase Notice: Effective January 3, 2012
Starting January 3, 2012 all permit fees, including the administrative fee will be automatically increased by 3.23% as required by Section 1-13 of the City of Houston Code of Ordinances. This percentage is based on the Consumer Price Index. The administrative fee associated with all permits will now be $25.80. The minimum fee and some of the license fees will not be increased. Permits applied for prior to the effective date of this change will be grandfathered under the previous fees. Forms, publications and web pages will be updated soon to reflect the new fees. For an explanation of the fees, please email permits_office@houstontx.gov.
NLRB Right to Unionize Poster Rule Delayed Till April 30
The National Labor Relations Board has agreed to postpone the effective implementation date of its employee collective bargaining rights poster requirement — which includes a right to unionize notice — to April 30, 2012, depending upon the outcome of several legal challenges. The requirement was to go in effect on Jan. 31, 2012, but at least three lawsuits have been filed seeking to block the posting requirement — including one by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. A federal court in Washington, D.C., has delayed its implementation until after hearing legal challenges to the new rule.
The collective bargaining rights poster is available free for download on the NLRB website. If the rule is implemented, the poster must be hung in a conspicuous place with other workplace rights notices. The rule will apply to all employers with a gross annual business volume of $500,000 or more, whether or not the employer operates a non-union shop or conducts business in a “right to work” state. For more information, please visit https://www.nlrb.gov/faq/poster.
GHBA Wraps up 2011 with Shining Accomplishments at Texas Star Awards
November 15, 2011 – The Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA) was a stand-out in 2011 as numerous local members won awards at the Texas Association of Builders Star Awards. The Star Awards are held in conjunction with the Sunbelt Builders Show™ and are heavily marketed to the Sunbelt region: Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Arkansas. With more than 75 categories to choose from and hundreds of entries each year, it is an impressive feat to be identified as a finalist, let alone a winner. GHBA member remodelers, builders and developers were all winners.
“Wrapping up this year with so many accomplishments by our members was a testament to our membership’s innovation and to their vision within the homebuilding industry,” said Toy Wood, CEO for the GHBA. “These award winners and the entire GHBA membership are also looking toward 2012 with the same commitment to excellence and pride in our industry. Because of this, I am confident that we as an association will continue to meet the challenges of our times at the highest level.”
GRAND AWARD WINNERS from the GHBA membership included Bridgeland LP, "Developer of the Year"; Partners in Building, "Volume Builder of the Year – Mid Volume"; and Toll Brothers Inc., "Volume Builder of the Year – High Volume." See the full list of winners here
2012 to be a Rebuilding Year, says Crowe
October 24, 2011 – On October 24, Dr. David Crowe, the chief economist and senior vice president at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), spoke to a room of builders and elected officials forecasting the future economic landscape of the building industry for 2013. GHBA members and attendees learned a wealth of information about intriguing patterns and shifts in the economic landscape of our industry. You can download the slides demonstrating many of these patterns here.
As we enter a rebuilding year, according to Crowe, there are many contributing factors leading to the Houston area's success in preserving through the recession better than the rest of the country. A deep understanding of these intricacies will better enable the building community to weather the burden of a struggling economy and lead to more success in the future.
2011 Houston's Best Winners Announced
September 25, 2011 – On September 24, the industry's best gathered at the Hotel Intercontinental for a black-tie affair known as the Houston's Best Awards. For more than 30 years, these awards (formerly known as PRISM) have honored the industry's finest sales and marketing professionals in the categories of People, Product and Promotion.Presented by the GHBA Sales & Marketing Council, the Houston’s Best Awards gala is about recognizing the exceptional work among professionals in our industry and celebrating the continued growth of Houston’s housing market.
"Judges from around the United States were in awe, not only in the amount of entries, but the caliber of entries in all the categories," said Ashleigh Genzer, 2011 Sales & Marketing Council president. "Houston is truly blessed with a great home building market. A huge thank you to the SMC Board and Houston’s Best Committee for all the countless hours given to make Houston’s Best a success."
GHBA would like to congratulate all the Houston’s Best Award finalists and winners. "Your companies are what make Houston the greatest place to live, build and remodel," added 2011 GHBA President Mike Dishberger, Sandcastle Homes.
A special thank you to the 2011 Houston's Best sponsors, including Title Sponsor HoustonNewcomerGuildes.com.
Green Home Receives Highest Performance Certification
May 30, 2011 – The Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA) Green Built Gulf Coast (GBGC) program recently announced the first home remodel to receive an ‘Emerald’ certification, the program’s highest designation under the commended National Green Building Standard (NGBS).
The homebuilder, Dewey Hennessee with Olympia Builders, was able to achieve the home’s Emerald level of performance after extensive remodeling, performance testing and inspections, obtaining a 52.1% reduction in energy usage and a 52.2% reduction in water usage. Because of the age of the home, 49 years old, it was in a poor state regarding energy, water efficiency and indoor air quality.
Green Built Gulf Coast is a “green” building program recently released by the GHBA. The program is geared specifically for the unique environmental conditions that define the Texas Gulf Coast area including heat and humidity. Read full article
Green Remodel Receives Bronze Performance Certification
July 16, 2011 – A Houston home built in 1958, was recently transformed, not just to the lifestyle demands of 2011, but to the new green standards outlined by The Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA) Green Built Gulf Coast (GBGC) program. The home, located in the Meyerland area, was a remodel project by KeechiCreek Builders. It received the first Bronze certification under the commended National Green Building Standard (NGBS). KeechiCreek, owned by Brandon Lynch, a member of the GHBA, worked with the owner to incorporate a variety of features. After extensive remodeling, performance testing and inspections, the home obtained a 32% reduction in energy usage and a 37% reduction in water usage. The home attained a high caliber in green performance by meeting the GBGC Bronze point requirements outlined by the Standard.
The home was renovated with materials that were not only classified as green, but were also aesthetically appealing. “A 1958 home became a blend of beautiful green, in-demand features with energy saving methods,” said Lynch. “We recycled the original wood flooring, added bamboo floors, Pella windows, natural stone, water plumbing and energy star lighting fixtures. Also incorporated was R-19 insulation in the wall, R-40 in the attic, new R6 duct work and 16 SEER A/C units, a tankless hot water heater and polyurethane piping.” Read full article
SIRE Receives Donated Improvements to Hockley Facility
August 15, 2011 – It's the vision of SIRE’s therapeutic equestrian centers to provide the highest quality therapeutic horseback riding and related activities to all those who can benefit. This vision is being reinforced with the help of members from the Greater Houston Builders Association Remodelers Council (RMC). On Saturday, August 20 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Hockley SIRE facility will receive a major renovation of the education buildings that will allow them to expand their Instructor Education and Training efforts.
“People from all across the United States and many other countries will come to SIRE to be trained and certified as Therapeutic Riding Instructors, taking their skill and knowledge home with them,” said Pat Roddy, SIRE managing director. “This allows SIRE to make an impact on the quality of life for people with disabilities far beyond our local community.” The one-day project is being led by Breck Powers with LBJ Construction and Leslie King with Greymark Construction, both members of the GHBA Remodelers Council. Improvements on the two buildings include new window installation, new floors, new paint interior/exterior, new ceiling tiles, new A/C and replacing the fluorescent lighting to LED lighting. Many of the materials will be donated or provided at cost by GHBA members.
SIRE, a 501(c)3 organization, is a rehabilitation charity that utilizes therapeutic equestrian riding to help disabled children, adults and wounded military veterans. Working with donated horses and largely volunteer staffing, SIRE www.sire-htec.org helps nearly 200 disabled folks each week in the Houston area. “Our classrooms can be just as important as our horse arenas in enriching the lives of the children and adults we work with everyday,” added Roddy. “This remodeling will make an immediate and significant difference in achieving our mission and improving the quality of therapeutic experience for our riders and their parents and caregivers. With partners like the GHBA Remodelers Council, there is no limit to what we can achieve.”
SIRE also has the commitment by Eagle Scout candidates to build the permanent ramps, and add skirting and landscaping, another aspect to this community effort. The Hockley facility is located at 24161 Spring Drive, Hockley, TX 77447.
For more information on this one-day makeover at SIRE, call the GHBA at 281-970-8970 or PR Director Terry Swenson at 281-382-9977.
NAHB Names Lynch Remodeler of the Month
August 10, 2011 (National Association of Home Builders) – Brandon Lynch of Keechi Creek Builders in Houston, TX, was named the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelers September Remodeler of the Month. Lynch, selected through a stringent judging process of NAHB Remodelers leadership and staff, exemplifies the best in the remodeling industry.
The purpose of the NAHB Remodeler of the Month award program is to celebrate local, active remodelers who stand out because of recent quality work, customer service, community involvement, and dedication to furthering the industry. The winner, once selected by the NAHB Remodelers, is profiled in Qualified Remodeler magazine.
Congratulations, Brandon! GHBA applauds your quality work, customer service, community involvement and dedication to the industry.
Houston Area Survey: Most Residents Want Urbanism
July 20, 2011 (Houston Tomorrow, David Crossley) – Recent analysis of the Kinder Houston Area Survey at Rice University shows that 50% of all City of Houston residents would prefer to live in “a smaller home in a more urbanized area, within walking distance of shops and workplaces” than “a single family home with a big yard, where you would need to drive almost everywhere you want to go.” The survey, conducted by Stephen Klineberg, Ph.D. of the Kinder Center for Urban Research, revealed that 41% of all Harris County residents would prefer the more urban form. This is the first time the City of Houston only numbers have been analyzed. “The surveys reveal a surprisingly large unmet demand among the residents of this sprawling, automobile-dependent city for more urban alternatives,” Dr. Klineberg says. “Growing numbers of Harris County residents, particularly among the region’s ‘empty nesters’ and its younger ‘knowledge workers,’ would much prefer to have easy access to the city’s urban amenities while avoiding its traffic congestion and long commutes. Today’s land developers and home builders might well want to pay attention to these findings.”
The City’s development ordinances essentially make urban style development illegal in all but the Central Business District, the only place in the City that operates according to free market principles. Read it at Houston Tomorrow
NAHB Applauds EPA Rejection of Renovation Clearance Testing Requirements
July 13,2011 (NAHB) – The National Association of Home Builders commends the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for rejecting a proposal to add third-party clearance testing to the Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP). “We’re pleased that the EPA listened to the concerns of remodelers about the extreme costs the proposed clearance testing would have imposed,” said Bob Peterson, NAHB Remodelers chair and a remodeler from Fort Collins, Colo. “Home owners are saved from spending a great deal of money on lead testing. If remodeling is more affordable, home owners will be able to hire an EPA-certified renovator to keep them safe from lead dust hazards during renovation.”
At NAHB’s request this regulation was selected for review by the EPA under the Presidential Executive Order for Regulatory Review (Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review, 76 FR 3821 issued on Jan. 21) concerning the impact of federal rules on small businesses and job creation. The proposal would have required contractors to hire EPA-accredited dust samplers to collect several samples after a renovation and send them to an EPA-accredited lab for lead testing. Because of the cost of this as well as the waiting period for test results and the limited number of accredited labs nationwide, professional remodelers were very concerned about home owners’ willingness to undergo the process. In this down economy, consumers are still balking at the extra costs of the rule and often choose to reduce the amount of work done on their homes, hire uncertified contractors, or endanger themselves by attempting the work themselves... Read full article
Green Building Receives High Performance
May 10, 2011 (Spring Valley, Texas) – Green Built Gulf Coast (GBGC) announced the certification of its first certified “Silver” home under the commended National Green Building Standard (NGBS). The homebuilder, Mealy Company Builders, achieved the Silver level of performance in each of the six point-system rating categories. Green Built Gulf Coast is a “green” building program recently released by the Greater Houston Builders (GHBA). The program is geared specifically for the unique environmental conditions that define the Texas Gulf Coast area including heat and humidity. The National Standard provides an accredited criterion for rating the environmental impact of design and construction practices to achieve conformance with specified performance levels of green residential buildings. The six points required for a Silver level of performance include... Read more
GHBA Celebrates 70 Years, "Of the Year" Awards Presented
February 4, 2011 – The GHBA’s 70th Anniversary Extravaganza was held at the Museum of Natural Science, a unique venue to celebrate seven decades within the homebuilding industry and to present GHBA’s “Of the Year” awards. Guests enjoyed cocktails and appetizers among the museum’s lighted display cases and dramatic dinosaurs. Lisa Clark, past president, graciously emceed the event. The new Executive Committee and the board of directors were introduced and sworn in before an audience of approximately 350 guests. Mike Dishberger, incoming president, was installed with the help of a special guest, Mrs. Ruth Dishberger, Mike’s mother. Kevin Holland, outgoing president, received his Past President pin and a scrapbook reflecting his tenure as president. A lovely dinner was provided and a history of the organization was shown on DVD throughout the evening. After the awards were presented, The Lost Boys band performed while many guests crowded the dance floor. The highlight of the evening was the award presentation for GHBA’s “Of the Year” winners for 2010. Read more in Houston Builder magazine! Benefit Homes Project Ends 2010 with Half Million Dollar Donation to Charity
January 26, 2011 – At the conclusion of 2010, the 30th anniversary of the Benefit Homes Project, a Greater Houston Builders Assoc. (GHBA) charity, was marked by record proceeds donated to charity. Last year’s beneficiaries were the Alzheimer’s Association, Texas Children’s Cancer Center and HomeAid Houston. This banner year is a result of Benefit Homes built by both Trendmaker and Village Builders, sold earlier in 2010 and a third Benefit Home, by Westin Homes that is in the closing process. The charities will receive a combined amount totaling more than half a million dollars.
Every year, two to three homes are built with donated materials, labor and services by GHBA members. The homes represent some of the most luxurious designs available on the market and are built in prime communities throughout the Houston area. The builders donate their construction management and developers donate the homesites. The homes are sold at market value and include a broad array of amenities and upgrades. The majority of the proceeds always benefit Houston charities.
In 2010, Trendmaker Homes built their home in The Woodlands, Village Builders built their home in Kingwood and Westin Homes built their home in Discovery at Spring Trails. Kicking off the 2011 Benefit Homes Project is Newmark Homes. They will be building their home in Towne Lake on a homesite donated by the developer of the community, Caldwell Companies. Newmark is adding a fourth charity to the list of beneficiaries for 2011. A lead gift to the 100 Club Survivors Fund is being given by Newmark Homes in the amount of $30,000 in honor of Deputy JD Norsworthy. Read full article here
GHBA's Wayne Ball Named February Remodeler of the Month
Wayne Ball, CGR, CAPS of Lone Star Building & Construction Services Inc. was named the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelers February 2011 Remodeler of the Month. Wayne Ball, selected through a stringent judging process of NAHB Remodelers leadership and staff, exemplifies the best in the remodeling industry. The purpose of the NAHB Remodeler of the Month award program is to celebrate local, active remodelers who stand out because of recent quality work, customer service, community involvement and dedication to furthering the industry. The winner, once selected by the NAHB Remodelers, is profiled in Qualified Remodeler magazine. Congratulations, Wayne! GHBA applauds your quality work, customer service, community involvement and dedication to the industry.
Fast-Growing Katy Places First
(KATY EDC) – Gadberry’s “10 from 2010” has chosen Katy as the most dynamic high-growth suburban area in the United States. The rapidly growing suburban city just west of Houston has added 17,641 households since 2000. The number of households increased by 8.7 percent from 2009 to 2010. Overall, Katy was the fourth fastest-growing area since 2000 among the ten cities listed, with a 267 percent growth rate. The average household income in Katy has risen more than 21 percent since 2000 while the average length of residency was 4.7 years in 2010. Three other Texas cities made this year’s list, all in North Texas. Haslet placed second with Keller right behind at third. Frisco ranked sixth on the list.
Forbes Names Houston "Model City"
Innovation, job growth and immigration put this Lone Star city ahead of New York and Boston.
Do cities have a future? Pessimists point to industrial-era holdovers like Detroit and Cleveland. Urban boosters point to dense, expensive cities like New York, Boston and San Francisco. Yet if you want to see successful 21st-century urbanism, hop on down to Houston and the Lone Star State.
You won't be alone: Last year Houston added 141,000 residents, more than any region in the U.S. save the city's similarly sprawling rival, Dallas-Fort Worth. Over the past decade Houston's population has grown by 24%--five times the rate of San Francisco, Boston and New York. In that time it has attracted 244,000 new residents from other parts of the U.S., while older cities experienced high rates of out-migration. It is even catching up on foreign immigration, enjoying a rate comparable with New York's and roughly 50% higher than that of Boston or Chicago.
So what does Houston have that these other cities lack? Opportunity. Between 2000 and 2009 Houston's employment grew by 260,000. Greater New York City--with nearly three times the population of Houston--has added only 96,000 jobs. The Chicago area has lost 258,000 jobs, San Francisco 217,000, Los Angeles 168,000 and Boston 100,004.
Politicians in big cities talk about jobs, but by keeping taxes, fees and regulatory barriers high they discourage the creation of jobs, at least in the private sector. A business in San Francisco or Los Angeles never knows what bizarre new cost will be imposed by city hall. In New York or Boston you can thrive as a nonprofit executive, high-end consultant or financier, but if you are the owner of a business that wants to grow you're out of luck. Houston, however, has kept the cost of government low while investing in ports, airports, roads, transit and schools. A person or business moving there gets an immediate raise through lower taxes and cheaper real estate. Houston just works better at nurturing jobs.
Rally Day 2011: Texas Builders Convene on Capitol Hill
* Build relationships with your Texas state senators & representatives
* Lobby important issues crucial to the housing industry
* Show your support for the association that speaks on your behalf
* Take a stand on issues that affect your business and our state
Rally Day 2011 will be Wednesday, February 23, 2011. We are looking forward to yet another successful event and are hoping to have more than 1,500 Texas home builders, remodelers, developers and our invaluable associate members ascend those steps at the beautiful State Capitol building on Wednesday, February 23.
The purpose of Rally Day is to deliver our legislative agenda right to the door of our State Representatives and Senators. As an industry, we must proactively inform elected officials of the consequences of passing over-reaching legislation that can have an overly burdensome and costly effect on Texas home builders and home buyers. Your state association leadership and staff are confident about the upcoming 82nd Session, but without your strong support and grassroots action, the Texas Association of Builders will not be able to accomplish our goals.
We need your help to continue to protect our entire industry, and ask that you make the commitment to travel to Austin on Wednesday, February 23rd for Rally Day 2011 to be a part of this special—and effective—legislative event.
Houston's Best Winners Announced
For more than 30 years, the coveted Houston’s Best Awards have recognized excellence in the home building industry. Presented at a red carpet gala at the House of Blues on Sept. 18, the awards honor builders, remodelers and sales professionals in the categories of People, Product and Promotion.
GHBA Helps Set Legal Precedent on Sovereign Immunity
In a second case raising the same sovereign immunity issue, Kirby Lake Development, Ltd. prevailed in the court of appeals, but the Water Authority appealed to the Texas Supreme Court. Once again GHBA contracted with Cohen to file a second, more extensive friend of the court brief. In August the Texas Supreme Court ruled in favor of Kirby Lake with a unanimous and broad opinion that holds that suits may be filed against a local governmental agency if goods and services have been supplied to that agency under contract.
This is an excellent outcome for private developers and contractors who must do business with a governmental agency. Many thanks to our developers, our attorney, and the board of directors who wisely established a legal defense fund. And the next time someone asks about the value of membership, you can point to this ruling which will potentially save our industry hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars.
Wisenbaker Builder Services Celebrates its 40th Anniversary
Wisenbaker Builder Services, one of the nation’s largest builder services companies, is celebrating its 40th anniversary. The company opened its doors in Humble, Pictured here are: Matt Wisenbaker, John Wisenbaker Sr., and John Wisenbaker Jr.
Warren Clark Wins CADRE Award for "Associate of the Year"
Warren Clark, Marketing Manager for the Houston Region of BMC SELECT Building Materials was recently named the winner of the 2010 CADRE Award for “Associate of the Year.” The award recognizes Clark’s service includes being on the Remodelors Council’s board of directors for 12 years including the current year. He also serves on the board of directors of the Greater Houston Builders Association and previously served as a director of the Galveston County Builders and Remodelers Association. He is active in the GHBA’s Remodelors Council, Associate Council, Bay Area Builders Association, Sales and Marketing Council and Custom Builders Council in addition to his participation in and directorship of both the Remodelors Council and GHBA.
And the HomeAid Project Playhouse Winner is...
Dawna and Don Branum and their sons, Tyler, 13, and Ryan, 12, were thrilled to have their winning raffle ticket drawn by Astros owner, Drayton McLane at the Astros game on Thursday, August 19. They are the winners of the 2010 HomeAid Project Playhouse, called “The Vintage Astros Dugout,” to honor the Astros 45th year as a ball club. Project Playhouse is a major fundraising event for HomeAid Houston, a GHBA sponsored charity. The playhouse was built by David Weekley Homes and GHBA members donated labor, materials and services for the fundraiser. The key to the playhouse will be presented to the Branum’s at the Astros game on Tuesday, August 31.Staff members from David Weekley Homes and Camden Builders were the winning team for ticket sales. HomeAid would like to thank all of the volunteers who helped at the games this year. We couldn’t have the playhouse fundraiser without the support of the volunteers.
HomeAid had a second playhouse this year, also built by David Weekley Homes that was also constructed with donated labor, materials and services from GHBA members. It was auctioned off at the Astros Wives Gala on August 12. The winning bidders ws Drayton and Elizabeth McLane. The McLane’s bid $13,000 for the playhouse which will be installed at their home for their grandchildren.
All proceeds from the fund raiser will benefit HomeAid’s mission to build dignified housing where homeless families and individuals can rebuild their lives.
Citing Flawed Analysis, Feds Send EPA Storm Water Rules Back to the Drawing Board
August 13, 2010 - In a major victory for affordable housing, sound science and more sensible regulations, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has been forced to withdraw a key portion of new storm water management regulations for builders and developers and devise new ones based on better research.
The move is the result of a lawsuit filed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and petitions filed by both NAHB and the federal Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Advocacy asking the agency to revise its new Effluent Limitation Guidelines (ELGs) for the construction and development industry.
"After a big rainstorm, it's typical to see some storm water drain from a construction site. In these new regulations, EPA set a numeric limit on the amount of sediment that can cloud the water that both NAHB and SBA claimed was arbitrary and based on flawed analyses," said NAHB Chairman Bob Jones, a home builder and developer in Bloomfield Hills, Mich.
"In addition, NAHB was able to show that trying to achieve these limits would have cost not $953 million – which the agency had estimated – but up to $10 billion annually, hurting small businesses and housing affordability, with little additional environmental benefit: EPA itself admits the ELG would control less than one quarter of one percent of all total sediment runoff," Jones said. "By forcing EPA to take a hard look at the facts and admit its error, NAHB scored a major victory for home builders and home buyers nationwide."
After reading NAHB's brief, the Justice Department asked EPA to defend the numeric limit. EPA was forced to admit several flaws in the final rule and that it had improperly interpreted the data. As a result, the Justice Department filed a motion with the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals asking it to vacate the numeric limit and place a hold on the litigation until February 2012—while EPA goes back and develops a numeric limit that builders can actually comply with.
Published in December 2009, the ELG imposed a nationally applicable—and potentially impossible-to-meet—limit of 280 "turbidity units" on storm water discharges from construction sites disturbing 10 or more acres of land at one time.
While today's ruling removes the numeric limit, the other requirements of the ELG remain in place. EPA is expected to issue interim storm water management guidance for construction site operators as the agency works to refine the rule.
"NAHB supports responsible development and the goals of the Clean Water Act. The association will continue to work with state and federal regulators to keep our waterways clean," Jones said.
BMC SELECT™ earns Partners of Choice Award for third year in a row from building giant David Weekley Homes
BOISE, Idaho (July 30, 2010) -- BMC SELECT™, one of the nation's leading providers of building materials and construction services to professional homebuilders and contractors, was awarded the 2010 "Partners of Choice Award" today from David Weekley Homes, the second-largest privately held for-profit homebuilder in the United States. This is the third consecutive year BMC SELECT has earned the prestigious accolade and the fourth time in the last 5 years. The award is based on Weekley's National Trading Partner Survey, a monthly evaluation where more than 600 associates throughout the company and the country rate 150 suppliers on both quality and service performance. Only suppliers maintaining an "A" rating for quality and service are eligible for a coveted Partners of Choice Award.
"Receiving a Partners of Choice Award is the highest compliment we can pay our providers," said Bill Justus, vice president of supply chain services for David Weekley Homes and the brains behind the unique supplier-rating system. "To earn this award means 600 people from every level of our company believe BMC SELECT is best in class in delivering its products to us in a timely, efficient, cost-effective manner. I cannot think of a stronger validation of world-class excellence. BMC SELECT can put its products and services up against anybody anytime anywhere and succeed."
"Receiving a Partners of Choice Award is the highest compliment we can pay our providers," said Bill Justus, vice president of supply chain services for David Weekley Homes and the brains behind the unique supplier-rating system. "To earn this award means 600 people from every level of our company believe BMC SELECT is best in class in delivering its products to us in a timely, efficient, cost-effective manner. I cannot think of a stronger validation of world-class excellence. BMC SELECT can put its products and services up against anybody anytime anywhere and succeed."
How Texas Avoided the Great Recession | Newgeography.com
(July 20, 2010, Newgeography.com)—Lately, Texas has been noted frequently for its superior economic performance. The most recent example is the CNBC ratings, which designated the Lone Star state as the top state for business in the nation. Moreover, Texas performed far better than its principal competitor states during the Great Recession as is indicated in our How Texas Averted the Great Recession report, authored for Houstonians for Responsible Growth.
Associate Council Scholarships Awarded to the Best and Brightest
The Mid-Year Forecast Luncheon was the venue for recognizing and awarding scholarships to deserving students whose parents are members of the GHBA. This year the council received $6,000 in donations from GHBA members and councils for 2010. Debbie Silver with DuPure International, the 2010 Associate Council Scholarship chairperson, announced this year’s winners. They are: Alaina Anderson, daughter of Jill and Richard Anderson; Skylar Simons, daughter of Renae and Bill Simons; Jenna VonHofe, daughter of Steve and LaDonna VonHofe; Casey Bemis, daughter of Leslie King with Greymark Construction; Hannah Ramirez, daughter of Sarah and Roland Ramirez; and Marsha Stripling, daughter of Sharon and Mark Stripling.
Special thanks to our scholarship donors, including: CenterPoint Energy, Chastang Ford, Chesmar Homes, DuPure International, Eric L. Davis Engineering Inc., Forest Financial Services Ltd., Grand View Builders, Greymark Construction Co., Newmark Homes Houston LLC, Swantner & Gordon Insurance Agency and Taylor Morrison Homes.
NAHB Applauds EPA's Decision to Delay Lead Paint Certification Enforcement
WASHINGTON, June 21--The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) decision to delay enforcement of the new Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting rule will provide much-needed time to get more remodelers and other contractors trained—and for EPA to get the word out to consumers about the importance of hiring a certified remodeler, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
“EPA listened to our concerns and did the right thing,” said NAHB Chairman Bob Jones, a builder and developer in
In revised guidance released on Friday, EPA acknowledged that remodelers in many parts of the country have been unable to obtain the required training to comply with the rule – a problem that NAHB has urged the agency to solve since the rule was announced two years ago.
While remodelers, electricians, heating and air conditioning technicians and other contractors must adhere to lead-safe work practices, including special equipment filters and a ban on open flames, EPA will not take enforcement action against firms that have been unable to obtain certification until Oct. 1 of this year.
“This rule potentially affects about 79 million homeowners. That’s how many homes were built before 1978, when lead paint was banned,” Jones said. “We need significantly more contractors certified than the 300,000 who have taken the training course, and we also need to make sure that affected homeowners understand the importance of hiring a certified contractor.”
Homeowners can find a certified firm at http://cfpub.epa.gov/flpp/searchrrp_firm.htm. Remodelers can search for an EPA-approved training provider at http://cfpub.epa.gov/flpp/searchrrp_training.htm or contact GHBA at 281.970.8970x161 to find Certified Renovator training sessions.
2010 Project Playhouse Comes to Bridgeland July 10
Baseball fans will be crying “Take me out to the Bridgeland community,” July 10 to see HomeAid Houston’s 2010 Project Playhouse, “The Vintage Astros Dugout” and enjoy a day of baseball-themed fun.The event, set for 10 a.m. to noon, showcases the playhouse, built in honor of the Astros’ 45th year as a ball club. It is the perfect getaway for the young baseball fan, including bench seating from the Astros dugout in Minute Maid Park (complete with cleat marks), a wall-mounted 32-inch HDTV, a Nintendo Wii, a DVD player and an 8,000 BTU air conditioner with remote control.
HomeAid Houston’s “Vintage Astros Dugout” will be on display in Bridgeland July 10. Raffle tickets will be on sale for $5 each.
For event information, visit www.bridgeland.com/events/calendar Raffle tickets will be on sale for the playhouse for $5 each. Raffle ticket holders will also have a chance to win a ball or hat signed by Lance Berkman, Jeff Bagwell, Hunter Pence and Brad Mills, or four tickets to an upcoming game. Astros’ mascot Junction Jack will be in Bridgeland for the event, as will the Cy-Ranch High School baseball team. Visitors also can participate in a free batting clinic and enjoy complimentary hot dogs, refreshments and giveaways.
Bill Shaw Named NAHB’s July Remodeler of the Month
Bill Shaw with William Shaw and Associates Remodelers was recently named NAHB’s Remodeler of the Month for July. The NAHB received a number of excellent nominations and selected Bill after a stringent judging process by NAHB Remodelers leadership and staff who represent the best in the remodeling industry. The NAHB named Bill and his company the Remodeler of the Month for July because of his proven quality of work, excellent customer service, unwavering commitment to community involvement, and his dedication to furthering the industry.
The purpose of the NAHB Remodeler of the Month award program is to celebrate local, active remodelers who stand out within their industry. The winner, once selected by the NAHB Remodelers, is profiled in Qualified Remodeler magazine.
Green Building Initiative (GBI) to be Phased Out September 1. New GBGC Mandatory Verifier Training to be Held May 26.
The GHBA is launching a new green building program, Green Built Gulf Coast (GBGC), with a go-live date of June 1, 2010. Under GBGC, the association is now an adopting entity of the National Green Building Standard® ICC 700-2008. GBGC is a voluntary green building program in which all GHBA members can participate.
If you have been a participating builder in the GHBA Green Building Initiative (GBI), all homes that have started prior to June 1 and finish prior to September 1, 2010 will qualify under the GHBA GBI program. On June 1, the GBI program will no longer be a valid program for new home starts.
For those planning to transition to the new GBGC program, the first Verifier Training Education Course will be held May 26 at GHBA. This is a mandatory class for ALL Verifier Participants of GBGC.
HomeAid Dedicates First ANSI Gold Award Project in Texas
HomeAid Houston recently dedicated its Gracewood remodel project—the Promise House. The project was awarded the first Gold ANSI (American National Standards Institute) certificate for a green remodel in Texas. To complete the project, HomeAid partnered with GHBA member vendors and remodeler Brothers Strong, a pioneer in green construction in Houston.
Gracewood, a charity associated with Children at Heart Ministries, assists single mothers and their children who are experiencing hardship that could otherwise result in homelessness. Gracewood provides a safe, loving environment and assists in personal development through counseling, job training and educational classes. The 3,600 sq. ft. remodeled home will soon house four single mothers and their children.
Dan Wallrath & Operation FINALLY HOME to be Honored
The Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars has requested Dan Wallrath to be present at their national convention in Indianapolis, IN. He will represent Operation FINALLY HOME. The charity will be honored for its work in providing-mortgage free homes to America's war wounded.
Click here for more information on the event.
David Weekley Receives Ethical Leadership Award
For his selfless leadership, moral business acumen and unwavering level of social responsibility, David Weekley, chairman of David Weekley Homes, has been named the 2010 recipient of the Ethical Leadership in Action Award by the University of St. Thomas Center for Business Ethics.
McGuyer Homebuilders partners with Wheelock Street Capital
McGuyer Homebuilders Inc. ("MHI") of Houston, Texas today announced the formation of a joint venture partnership with Wheelock Street Capital to purchase and develop residential land for lot sales and homebuilding. Together, they recently closed on their first transaction, which included the acquisition of more than 3,000 homesites across eight communities in Texas originially from lender GMAC / RFC. The all-equity investment totaled more than $15 million, and is the first of what both firms expect to be a growing relationship. Together, the firms will seek to acquire single assets, portfolios and other homebuilders with the goal of investing in excess of $50 million. The eight communities are located in Austin, Dallas and Houston. The diversified portfolio will include product for buyers ranging from first time homebuyers to second time move up buyers.
Telfair Wins Three HBJ Landmark Awards
Telfair, a 2,018‐acre masterplanned community in Sugar Land, has won three Landmark awards from the Houston
Business Journal, including the award for best residential community and two awards for transforming a historic
state prison building into a poplar science museum.
Telfair took top honors in the Residential Development category, with the HBJ‐produced video that announced the
award stating that the four‐year‐old community had a 10% sales increase in 2009 a year when overall new home
sales in the Houston region were down by double digits.
BMC SELECT™ Names VP and Houston GM Dave Ondrasek to Chair Company's New Millwork Best Practices Council
BMC SELECT™, one of the nation's leading providers of building materials and construction services, has appointed
Dave Ondrasek, currently vice president and general manager of the company's Houston operations, to chair its
Millwork Best Practices Council. In his new role, Dave will work directly with each millwork operation to ensure they
all apply established best practices through a coordinated and consistent effort.
Although Ondrasek will remain based in Houston, he'll work closely with BMC SELECT's senior management and
corporate purchasing personnel to identify key strategic objectives for the company's two‐dozen‐plus millwork
facilities in eight states. Key areas to address include sales strategies, sourcing and vendor relationships,
equipment utilization, productivity, and expansion opportunities.
Lead Paint Certified Remodelers in Short Supply
Home owners planning a remodeling project this spring may not be able to find a qualified remodeler if a new regulation from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) goes into effect as scheduled, according to the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA). The regulation aims to reduce exposure to lead paint that may occur when a home built before 1978 is remodeled.
As of April 22, the EPA will require all contractors working in homes built before lead paint was banned to be trained and certified under the Lead Paint: Renovation, Repair and Painting Rull (LRRP). Contractors subject to the rule include remodelers, carpenters, plumbers, heating and air conditioning workers, window installers and others.
Four Houston Communities Rank Among 2009's Top Sellers
Each year, Robert Charles Lesser & Co (RCLCO) invites more than 400 communities across the U.S. to participate in the survey. As in past years, a majority of the top-selling master-planned communities have been located in the southwestern region of the country, with the Houston market performing best overall.
Newland Community’s Cinco Ranch, with 887 net sales, was 2009’s top-selling master-planned community (MPC) in the U.S. according to Robert Charles Lesser & Co (RCLCO), an independent real estate advisory firm. This marks a 14% increase in net sales over 2008 (the third best year in the community's 19-year history).
The Woodlands Development Co's master-planned community ranked number two in the RCLCO Top 10, with 633 net sales. Hitting the charts at number four was Newland Communities' Telfair development in Sugar Land. Telfair saw a 9% increase over 2008 with 450 net sales. Sienna Plantation by The Johnson Development Co. rounded out the list at number 10, with 280 net sales.
Total number of net sales in 2009 for the majority of the top 20 best-selling MPCs dropped from 2008 levels, with sales volume declining by as little as 8% and as much as 84%. Newland’s Cinco Ranch and Telfair were a strong exception to this trend, posting increased sales for the third year in a row.
Newland Community’s Cinco Ranch, with 887 net sales, was 2009’s top-selling master-planned community (MPC) in the U.S. according to Robert Charles Lesser & Co (RCLCO), an independent real estate advisory firm. This marks a 14% increase in net sales over 2008 (the third best year in the community's 19-year history).
The Woodlands Development Co's master-planned community ranked number two in the RCLCO Top 10, with 633 net sales. Hitting the charts at number four was Newland Communities' Telfair development in Sugar Land. Telfair saw a 9% increase over 2008 with 450 net sales. Sienna Plantation by The Johnson Development Co. rounded out the list at number 10, with 280 net sales.
Total number of net sales in 2009 for the majority of the top 20 best-selling MPCs dropped from 2008 levels, with sales volume declining by as little as 8% and as much as 84%. Newland’s Cinco Ranch and Telfair were a strong exception to this trend, posting increased sales for the third year in a row.
David Weekley Homes Wins Department of Energy's Builders Challenge in Houston
By the middle of 2009, David Weekley Homes had qualified 280 homes – more than any other builder – for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Builders Challenge. They did this by building homes that scored an average of 67 on the Home Energy Rating System (HERS). By November 2009, the builder had an additional 600 homes ready for certification.
Dan Wallrath Honored as Hero of the Week by CNN
Dan Wallrath, a retired home builder and long-time member of the GHBA, was recently named a CNN Hero of the Week, a program that invites viewers to nominate individuals who are making a difference in the lives of others.Professional Designations Boost Companies' Bottom Line
Nationally recognized education courses are part of GHBA's program to enhance its members' marketability. Texas leads the country in the number of industry professionals who hold NAHB designations.
Million Dollar Circle Awards
Congratulations to new home sales professionals who topped the $1 million mark in 2009. See who was honored with the prestigious award.
2010 Industry Forecast Offers Mixed Bag
With the room filled to capacity, Metrostudy’s Mike Inselmann shared building industry trends and outlook for 2010. More than 900 guests attended the GHBA Forecast Luncheon held at the Westin Galleria on January 11, 2010.
2009 "Of the Year" Honorees Announced
The Greater Houston Builders Association recently announced “The best of 2009” Production Builder, Custom Builder, Developer and Remodeler of the Year winners. Awards were presented by Kevin Holland, incoming GHBA board president and Lisa Clark, outgoing president at the January GHBA Forecast Luncheon.
GHBA Installs 2010 Board of Directors
We invite you to get to know your association leadership. These professionals come from all sectors of the building industry.
Together they volunteer countless hours to the association, helping shape policy, drive growth, and lead the
charge for education and advocacy.
"Houston's Best" 2009 Announced at House of Blues
The Greater Houston Builders Association’s Sales & Marketing Council recently announced the winners of the 2009 “Houston Houston
GHBA's Benefit Homes Project Receives Outstanding Service Award
The Greater Houston Builders Association’s Benefit Homes Project has been selected as the recipient of the 2009 Outstanding Community Service Organization Award presented by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). This award recognizes the community service organization that demonstrates an outstanding commitment through community involvement and/or financial or in-kind support through philanthropic efforts. Texas Children’s Hospital, one of the beneficiaries of the 29 year old GHBA charity, nominated the Benefit Homes Project for this prestigious award.
Fix Housing First is Now History. Below are the Stimulus Package Highlights
In response to the economic decline over the past 18 months, leadership from the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA) spent months in the early stages during 2008 meeting with representatives in Washington D.C., Austin and Houston. The goal was to emphasize the direct impact the housing industry has on the nation’s economy. The following is a list of just a few of the facts* shared with members of Congress and elected officials to emphasize our position.
Houston Builder First in Texas to Earn National Remodeler Award
Stephen Hann, of Hann Builders became the first builder in Texas to earn the Graduate Master Remodeler (GMR) designation, identifying him as one of the remodeling industry’s top professionals. Administered by The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), University of Housing, the GMR program is sponsored locally by the Greater Houston Builders Association.
2008 Builder, Remodeler, Developer and Associate of the Year Awards Announced
The New Year brought in a new venue as “the best of 2008” were honored at the February 2009 GHBA board of directors meeting at the GHBA offices. The guest of honor list was headed by incoming GHBA President Lisa Clark, vice president of Ryko Development, who was installed along with her 2009 Executive Committee and board of directors. Lisa’s daughter Melissa served as the installing officer, and Lisa’s son Jonathan and husband Randy were also on-hand to share in the honor.
81st Texas Legislative Session: What to Expect in 2009
The 81st Session of the Texas State Legislature begins on January 13, 2009, and this is going to be quite an interesting session. In the Texas House, the Republicans hold the majority, but with a narrow margin of just 76-74. And in the Texas Senate, the Republicans hold a 19 to 12 majority, with GHBA HOME-PAC supported candidate Joan Huffman winning the Senate District 17 runoff.
GHBA Remodelors Council Brings Home Three CADRE Awards
The GHBA Remodelors Council was awarded three CADRE Awards at the NAHB Remodelers annual gala at the 2008 Remodeling Show in Baltimore, Md. on September 11. Winning entries included: “Community Service,” “Remodeler of the Year,” and “Outstanding Council Coordinator.”
