BIAW’s EIR Award competition celebrates Washington’s best remodeling and design work by BIAW members statewide. BIAW members from eight local homebuilder associations across the state submitted 57 entries in 23 categories, ranging from the top kitchens and baths to additions, outdoor living and universal design.
34 BIAW Summer Board Meeting Highlights
Thank you to all the directors, staff and members who joined us June 24-26 at the 2024 BIAW Summer Board Meeting at Skamania Lodge!
IN THIS ISSUE
Natural gas initiative garners most signatures in over 50 years
ROII tees it up around the state
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Heat and smoke on the agenda for L&I compliance inspectors
CONTACT US 2024 Excellence in Remodeling (EIR) Award winner for Kitchen Over $140,001, Choice Carpentry’s remodel of a 1976 Fox Island home. View all 2024 EIR winners starting on page 10. ON THE COVER
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President’s message
Jay Roberts President
Summer’s a busy time for builders, but everything’s about to get a lot busier for BIAW as the 2024 election season heats up.
Natural gas initiative gets half a million signatures
The building industry took the lead earlier this year in drafting, gathering signatures and qualifying Initiative 2066 for the November ballot. After years of pushing back on politically motivated efforts to end access to natural gas in Washington, we took matters into our own hands and gave the people of our state a voice.
Initiative 2066 protects energy choices like natural gas and propane and prohibits gas bans in any form, at any level of government and all across the state. After a late start due to legal maneuvering by the opposition, we launched our aggressive signature-gathering effort in mid-May.
We knew it would be tight with only seven weeks to get the 405,000 signatures we needed to ensure we had enough valid signatures from registered voters to get on November’s ballot.
No one would have predicted we would submit over 546,000 signatures on July 5. That’s the most signatures collected on a Washington state initiative in over 50 years—and the second most in state history!
Think about that. In just seven weeks, we gathered more signatures than the campaigns that brought us:
n $30 license tabs
n Liquor sales in grocery stores
n Marijuana legalization
n Charter schools
That’s a testament to the power of the people—and the power of our association to rally this state around an important issue. Thank you to everyone who helped! Continue the momentum to vote YES! Now it’s time to get the initiative over the goal line—and the wider the margin of victory the stronger the message we
send to Olympia. I hope we can count on everyone to keep the momentum going by voting YES on I-2066 in November.
Speaking of momentum, the BIAW board of directors formally endorsed Republican candidate Dave Reichert for governor.
Good for builders, good for
Washington
Reichert attended the 2024 BIAW Summer Board Meeting, where he shared his vision for the state of Washington. Taking the stage to a standing ovation, he discussed how he’d improve our state’s response to crime, the cost of living and rebuilding our robust economy. He also voiced support for increasing our ability to address the state’s housing crisis and build more homes that Washington families can afford.
The former King County Sheriff, Reichert served his country first in the Air Force Reserves then later in Congress for multiple terms. Now living in Chelan, he’s not only my neighbor but a great leader for the state of Washington.
Want to step up your support? You can learn more about him, request a yard sign and more at reichertforgovernor.com.
Pay attention to election information
As we head into the election season, BIAW’s website and social media channels will provide more information about elected officials and initiatives we’re supporting.
In the last issue of Building Insight, we provided you with the BIAW voter scorecard to see how your state legislators voted. We’ll also be sharing local homebuilding association endorsements in the weekly Hammer & Nail email newsletter you receive every Monday.
As we all know too well, elections have consequences. We’re enjoying momentum we haven’t seen in a while. Let’s be sure to capitalize on that so we can continue to build Washington into the state it’s meant to be.
BIAW bids farewell to Brenda Kwieciak after 30 years
A little over 30 years ago, Brenda Kwieciak moved to Washington from her hometown of Detroit, where she’d spent 10 years working for Mohawk Carpet. Her boyfriend, Tom, moved from Detroit back to Washington, where his parents lived, after serving as an officer in the Army, and she joined him.
New Staff
Patrick Hanks Policy and Research Manager
Patrick Hanks has joined BIAW as Policy and Research Manager in Government Affairs.
Born and raised in Washington state, Hanks graduated from the University of Washington and Bellevue College with a Bachelor of Arts in communication studies.
He previously worked as a project coordinator with the Washington Policy Center on energy and environmental policy. Additionally, he served as a Policy Analyst for Senator Lynn Findley in the Oregon State Senate, focusing on finance, revenue, tax and budget policies.
Mutual friends introduced them to BIAW Executive Vice President Tom McCabe, who first hired Tom Kwieciak to work in ROII and then brought on Brenda to work as BIAW’s receptionist. Both spent the summer working with BIAW to pass Initiative 602 to limit taxes and spending in Washington. The initiative failed, but the relationship continued.
Over the course of Brenda’s 30 years at BIAW, she married Tom, bought multiple homes (built by BIAW members!), had two children, celebrated her daughter’s marriage and has had a lifetime of adventures.
Kristi Dohring Events Manager
BIAW has hired Olympia native, Kristi Dohring as its new events manager. Dohring has played a big part in Olympia’s business community for years. She started Paprika Catering and then opened Paprika Cafe in downtown Olympia.
For the past seven years, Kristi has worked as the Catering Sales Manager at Indian Summer Golf and Country Club. In that role, she organized, collaborated and managed all types of events where she won many awards for sales excellence.
On the professional side, Brenda quickly moved from the reception desk to managing BIAW’s Building Insight publication for over 20 years, working with numerous public relations and communications professionals in between. In 2020, she joined the BIAW Management Team in a new role, overseeing BIAW’s membership, events and other administrative responsibilities. Few staff will leave BIAW with a legacy as strong as hers. Thank you, Brenda!
Andrea Smith Legislative Director
Based on her solid history of policy and research expertise, BIAW has promoted Andrea Smith, MPA, from Policy and Research Manager to serve as its new Legislative Director.
Prior to joining BIAW, Smith was the Communications & Education Manager for the Building Industry Association of Clark County. She has also worked for various initiative campaigns in Oregon and Washington, the Washington State Legislature and the City of Vancouver.
Executive Vice President’s message
Greg Lane Executive Vice President
Great news! Thanks to all the hard work of our members, local associations and all who supported the signaturegathering efforts, Initiative 2066 Protect Energy Choice has been officially certified by the Secretary of State’s Office for the November general election ballot.
By voting YES on I-2066 this November, voters now have the chance to protect their natural gas service and avoid costly conversions to all-electric. And the new energy codes that essentially ban natural gas for new residential construction will also have to be reconsidered by the State Building Code Council.
546,000+ signatures in 50 days
On July 5, BIAW, Let’s Go Washington, the Washington Hospitality Association (WHA), and others submitted the final round of petitions supporting I-2066, bringing the total to 546,000+ signatures in 50 days. This is the second-highest amount of signatures ever gathered for a Washington state initiative and the most gathered in over 50 years.
When we launched this initiative in mid-May, I knew Washingtonians opposed the idea of banning natural gas, but the support for this initiative has been truly amazing. This is the direct result of a strong partnership between Washington’s leading industry associations and the Washington people who are tired of politicians in Olympia making their lives more expensive.
The strong support for this initiative shows just how strongly the people of Washington feel about protecting natural gas for heating and cooking in their homes and businesses.
Protecting natural gas as an energy choice
For years BIAW, WHA and others have fought off political efforts in the legislature, at the local government level and at the State Building Code Council to end natural gas service for Washington residents and businesses who rely on it.
I-2066 gives Washington voters the freedom to join the 24 other states in America who’ve banned natural gas bans in support of energy choice. It protects reliable, affordable energy choices like natural gas and propane and prohibits gas bans in Washington. Washington’s right to use gas for heating and cooking is in danger. The state has been working to ban natural gas from all homes and businesses. If they’re successful, households will be forced to spend an average of $40,000 to $70,000 to convert from natural gas to electric. I-2066 protects people’s right to use natural gas, giving everyone control over the energy they use in their own homes.
Vote YES on I-2066 in November
Efforts now turn to an aggressive statewide campaign to make sure everyone who wants natural gas as an energy choice votes YES on I-2066 in November!
We couldn’t have gotten here without the incredible team effort of all involved parties working together. This includes all of our members and local associations. Qualifying I-2066 is a historic accomplishment for our association! We will need everyone’s help going forward and look forward to continuing to work with you all.
brings in 444 new members
Bonus point winners
All registered recruiters earn $100 for each new member they recruit who enrolls in the ROII program or BIAW Health Trust by May 31. Congratulations to all the bonus point winners!
n Chuck Neibert, BIACC – 5 pts
n Dee Coppola, KBA – 2 pts
n Andrew Northrop, SHBA – 1 pt
The 2024 BIAW Bracket Battle Membership Drive brought in 444 new members across Washington’s 14 local associations this spring. And 24 of those members qualified for ROII and the BIAW Health Insurance Program.
Congratulations to our Bracket Battle winners
The competition was fierce amongst the 64 recruiters who joined the battle earlier this year but in the end, a select few came away with the top prizes.
Grand Prize Winner Chuck Neibert of Affinity Homes, LLC from the Building Industry Association of Clark County (BIACC) recruited 29 new members. He won a free trip for two, including airfare and hotel, to the 2025 International Builders’ Show!
Runner-up Dee Coppola from the Kitsap Building Association (KBA) won a Washington Winery Experience for two hosted by Bon Vivant Wine Tours.
Andrew Northrop (Spokane Home Building Association (SHBA)) and Caleb Blanton (BIACC) won the third- and fourth-place cash prizes of a $200 gift card of their choice.
Exclusive Recruiter Reception at the 2025 International Builders’ Show
All recruiters scoring five points total between Feb. 1 and May 31 will receive an invitation to an exclusive recruiter reception at the 2025 International Builders’ Show.
Congratulations to:
n Andrew Northrop, SHBA
n Caleb Blanton, BIACC
n Bonnie Buffington, MBAPC
n Chuck Neibert, BIACC
n Corey Condron, SHBA
n Dee Coppola, KBA
n Dee Dee Swartz, SICBA
n Nicole Ahola, CWHBA
n Bob Disney, KBA
n Scott Walker, MBAPC
n Tracy Doriot, BIACC
n Nick Barnes, SHBA – 1 pt
n Chad Pearson, OMB – 1 pt
n Gina Carlson, OMB – 1 pt
n Janine Ezzell, OMB – 1 pt
Local association incentives
Local associations also won cash prizes based on the overall percentage increase in new members during the drive.
Local Total New Members Earnings
55 $1,250
21 $525
16 $450
7 $175
9 $225
41 $1,025
7 $1,250
40 $1,000
16 $416
90 $1,250
22 $550
52 $1,250
50
16
444 $10,216
Thank you to everyone who supported the BIAW Bracket Battle and helped us build a stronger, more vibrant residential homebuilding industry in Washington.
Mid-year economic forecast
by Noah Blanton President, Oregon Direct Operations, WFG National Title Insurance Company
We are entering a transitory phase of the economy as housing inventory builds, employment moderates and inflation stagnates. We are no longer experiencing significant increases or declines in inflation, home prices or employment and the Federal Reserve’s rate-raising cycle has peaked. We are slowly finding economic equilibrium, while the looming national debt and deficit cast a shadow over this year’s election and the economy’s future.
Welcome to your mid-year economic snapshot.
Inflation stagnating, employment and consumers in focus
While the downward trajectory of inflation continues, it remains painfully slow, stuck in the 3%-3.5% range for 12 months. Three percent is undoubtedly an improvement over 5% or 7% inflation, but it is still a third higher than the Fed would prefer. (Figure 1) Moderating inflation is a positive. Declining inflation is even better, but headline inflation factors are complex.
Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, continues to decline, reaching 3.3% annualized in June.
Downward pressure on inflation has primarily been an energy story, with energy deflation providing much of the tailwind for the improved annual numbers. Not optional categories, such as shelter, electricity and medical services, continue to inflate above 3%, keeping pressure on consumers. Shelter, food away from home, electricity, medical services and insurance services are all inflating above 3% annually.
Gasoline, new vehicles and commodities (less food and energy commodities) are the only categories deflating. (Figure 2)
The consumer’s health is paramount, and personal spending and income remain relatively strong, as does the personal savings rate. This is positive for economic growth but keeps inflation pressure elevated. (Figure 3)
While moderating from post-pandemic highs, both national and state employment remain strong, with growth in the labor force and employment. Washington state has a higher unemployment rate than the national average, but it has remained stable in the 4% range, and the state added over 43,000 jobs in the prior twelve months.
Figure 1
Figure 2
Inventory building, elevated home prices persist
Housing has remained resilient in the face of mortgage rates that increased from trough to peak by nearly 200%. Pricing remains firm, even as inventory begins to build and the bottom of housing velocity likely passed last year. Comparing the halfway point of this year with the prior five, homes sold above list and homes with price reductions are closely aligned with 2019 levels and stable from the preceding year. (Figure 4)
Homes for sale are likely also past the seasonal peak, up significantly from the prior year but remaining below 2019 levels. We are building inventory, which should be watched closely, as it is the prerequisite for moderating prices.
Building permits rose last year and have increased 22% over the prior year to
date. However, permits issued for singlefamily units account for the entirety of the increase (up 65%), while multifamily permits have declined (down 10%).
New construction should carefully analyze the markets they sell in, being especially sensitive to inventory from existing housing stock, changes in months of available supply, and median days on the market.
The debt and deficit loom over rates The world is awash in debt. Investors in bond and treasury markets have many return and risk profiles from which they can choose. Among these options is the US Federal Debt, which increased 53% from January 2020. The yield on a 10-year US Treasury has risen by 600% from pandemic lows. We continue to add trillions of dollars to the debt on an annual basis through deficit spending.
4
Competing for investor dollars in this environment are mortgages and mortgage-backed securities. Lower rates face stiff headwinds, not least of which is ample debt supply.
Inflation will often have a “doublepeak” after beginning its initial decline. We should be aware of other inflation indicators, such as gold, which is considered a hedge against inflation. Gold is trading at the highest price on record, rising throughout this year, while inflation falls. Resolving this dissonance will be essential to understanding the sustained direction of inflation and longterm rates.
The Fed began raising rates in March 2022. The rising cycle peaked 12 months ago, and rates have remained at present levels since that time. Given the strength of the job market, continued inflationary pressures and consumer spending, one could argue that rates have not been restrictive enough. However, the offset is likely continued government deficit spending, so fiscal and monetary policy are now contradictory.
A September rate cut, now predicted at an 80% probability, may be inflationary. The bond markets seem to share this concern, with the 10-year treasury resisting at the 4% level and mortgage rates stalling in the high 6% range.
At the halfway point of 2024, it appears we will end the year with:
n Approximately the same number of closed transactions as in 2023
n Elevated levels of inventory over 2023
n Interest rates close to where they are today (unless there is a significant economic downturn)
n Increased SFR building permits and declining MFR building permits
n Slowing job creation and GDP in the second half of the year
A September rate decision and November election will set the tone for 2025.
BIAW has teamed up with WFG National Title Insurance Company’s Noah Blanton to offer quarterly economic forecasts to assist members in making decisions for their businesses. Contact him for more information at (503) 431-8506 or nblanton@wfgtitle.com.
Figure 3
EXCELLENCE IN REMODELING 2024
26 AWARD-WINNING PROJECTS
The annual Excellence in Remodeling Awards competition attracts intense competition from across Washington, showcasing the top remodeling and design work by members statewide.
This year, members from eight local homebuilders associations statewide submitted 57 entries in 23 categories, including top kitchens and baths, additions, outdoor living and universal design.
Industry experts evaluated each project on aesthetics, unique design solutions, craftsmanship, materials, budget and design challenges. For the first time ever, there were multiple ties, resulting in a total of 26 awardwinning projects.
Each of these projects demonstrates the expertise, innovation and attention to detail required to win a 2024 Excellence in Remodeling Award. Congratulations to the remodelers and their teams for their outstanding work!
BATH
UNDER $35,000
McCabe By Design, LLC
Kitsap Building Association
The original fixtures and finishes in this Pacific Northwest powder room were failing and unbefitting to its gorgeous Bainbridge Island waterfront location. The homeowners were looking to update the powder room with a casual but tailored style with better lighting, a quieter yet efficient exhaust fan and an ergonomically hung mirror. The new design by Molly McCabe provided a newly installed left-in-swing door with a privacy door handle, which not only offered the space more privacy but also allowed room for the sink to be moved out of the corner. A dimmable LED mirror was installed above the sink, and the toilet was replaced with a skirted, low-flow model for reduced water consumption and ease of cleaning.
The biggest challenge of the project was finding a solution to obscure the unexpected and offensive pipe on an interior wall next to the console sink. A custom-designed removable wastebasket was fabricated from white oak hardwood flooring and handrail offcuts. The back bottom edge of the waste basket was notched to fit snuggly over the pipe. The homeowners loved the elegant result.
$35,001 - $60,000
Tenhulzen Residential, LLC
Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties
This Woodinville primary bathroom was not only disjointed but also extremely dangerous. Entering the shower required near acrobatic moves and much caution to avoid tripping and falling. With only one sink, laminate countertop, vinyl flooring and extremely limited storage, this bathroom was in great need of updating.
Removing the tiny tub allowed for the solution of relocating the shower in place of the vanity while maintaining natural light. This presented unique challenges, but after several visits and ceiling work on the lower floor, a new path for the waste line was finally completed. The project was only accessible by climbing a spiral staircase creating another challenge for creative minds. At last, stairs with railings from the ground to the upstairs
bathroom’s private deck were installed allowing access.
In the end, project designer Ronda Lane created incredible solutions in this small space. No more maneuvering for this grateful family. They now enjoy a simple step into a spacious shower flooded with natural light, a handheld showerhead, a granite bench and a colorful space. The bathroom features a lofty vanity, now elegant with complementary granite, undermount sinks, dedicated lights, mirrors and an amazing amount of storage with full extension and soft close drawers. The toilet was moved into a private water closet complete with a custom cabinet and more storage. The private deck is now enjoyed after a safe shower.
Before
BATH OVER $80,001
Phase II, Inc.
Master Builders Association of Pierce County
This beautiful Lacey estate was meticulously designed when it was built 25 years ago. The layout was functional, but the current design and finishes felt weighted and heavy. The bathroom and dressing room suite needed to be redesigned to improve performance and create a more elevated experience. The clients’ love for millwork was a driving force in this remodel designed by Tara Waits, and it was added wherever possible.
Hardwood floors were installed throughout the closet, bedroom and sitting room. Floor-to-ceiling cabinets were carefully planned with personalized storage solutions. The result is not just a closet but an extraordinary extension of the primary bath.
The bathroom tub deck and jetted tub were removed and replaced with a stunning, free-standing tub and faucet that gave the room a feeling of space and openness. The placement of the tub and modern chandelier frame the view of a prized 17th-century European well that stands outside the window. Marbleclad floors and walls were installed in varying sizes and formats to create interest and luxury. A custom marble cap and backsplash were designed to seamlessly integrate the wainscot with the vanities. The vanities were re-used and transformed by adding paneling and feet. Custom-lit mirrors eliminated the need for vanity lighting. Because of the tricky natural light on this side of the home, color light tests were conducted to strike the right balance to correct finish colors.
This project achieved its goal of lightening the environment and creating a luxurious and extravagant getaway.
$45,001 - $75,000
Titan Builders, LLC
North Peninsula Building Association
Titan Builders partnered with designer Maddie Reynolds on this small remodel for some wonderful clients in Sequim. They purchased a beautiful home with lots of room, but it was a little outdated. The owners chose Titan Builders to modernize the mother-in-law suite kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. New cabinetry, open shelving with under-cabinet lighting, butcherblock countertops, new appliances, updated flooring and trim throughout really bring this small space new life. This beautiful remodel helped the clients’ dreams become a reality. Before
North Peninsula Building Association
This Port Angeles home experienced a fire and needed a total kitchen remodel to repair the damage. Much of the drywall needed to be replaced, and new cabinets, counters, appliances and flooring were also installed. Titan Builders was happy to help this family make their house a home again.
$75,001 - $140,000
Disney & Associates
Kitsap Building Association
The client was looking to remodel the heart of their Port Orchard home with an updated look and better use of space. On the island, Disney & Associates were able to provide more countertop workspace while still allowing for barlike seating. A creative addition to the kitchen remodel was the upgrade and installation of a new gas fireplace in the kitchen and shared living space. The products installed in the kitchen include new plywood box cabinets with soft-close doors and drawers, quartz countertops and hardwood flooring with a 100-year transferable warranty. The client couldn’t have been more pleased with the final results, top-quality materials and expert workmanship delivered by Disney and Associates.
Titan Builders, LLC
KITCHEN OVER $140,001
Lakeville Homes
by SoBella Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties
This project features a kitchen that was part of a Mercer Island remodel focused on integrating indoor and outdoor living. The kitchen was central to the redesign, envisioned as the architectural backbone of the home. The homeowners’ desire for a modern, brighter and more functional space was the driving factor in this project.
The kitchen overhaul included creating a working pantry equipped with its own sink and refrigerator to replace the outdated and cramped existing pantry.
The incorporation of the outdoor living space was a pivotal design element. A backyard oasis featuring a fire pit and ample seating is accessible from the kitchen through sliding and folding windows, which flood the kitchen with natural light and fresh air.
Every element of the project was handpicked, from the selection of highquality materials, including custom cabinetry and honed quartz countertops, to the installation of top-of-the-line appliances. Additionally, a frame TV was integrated, visible from both the kitchen and beyond the folding window.
For this family, the kitchen represents the epitome of luxury and functionality.
Choice Carpentry
Master Builders Association of Pierce County
This 1976 Fox Island home was built in the era of compartmentalized rooms, including a kitchen in the center, without regard to the home’s waterfront view.
A new kitchen design was created, opening up the front entry wall. An island and perimeter cabinetry were added, which together allowed for the addition of a large picture window and a full-light exterior door emphasizing the fabulous waterfront view. A wall of floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinets was added for increased storage. The kitchen design used the perfect blend of warm natural walnut wood tones mixed with the beauty of light gray cabinetry set off by vibrant marine blue-colored appliances.
The large island, topped with a solid white quartzite slab with light gray veining and seating for four, serves as a gathering place for prepping, cooking and entertaining. The
soapstone-look quartzite perimeter countertops are enhanced with a coalblack composite single basin sink with a coal-black stainless faucet, complementing the matte black and brushed tin cabinet pulls.
Additionally, an existing half wall was removed and replaced with a walnut and black iron rail system.
The abundance of space solutions flooded with natural light creates the absence of clutter while bringing joy to cooking and entertaining in this polished kitchen.
GET AWAY ROOM
Sockeye Homes
Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties
This Auburn home had a detached office which required the homeowners to go outside of their home for access. The home also lacked a space for the couple to relax and entertain. An addition was proposed to connect the house to the office space and also add a large family room for entertaining, a bathroom and a deck. Careful attention was paid to the new addition’s rooflines and foundation height in order to seamlessly tie the main house and the detached office together. Because the homeowners are avid billiard players, they wanted a space with enough room for a pool table but also enough space to entertain large groups.
A large deck, accessible directly from the getaway room was added to create outdoor entertaining space. Stairs were added to the deck allowing access to the swim spa. A door was added at one end of the main interior entertaining space to separate the office space. Sounddeadening insulation was added to the existing office providing the homeowner with a space to practice their guitar.
A new bathroom was also added. Sockeye Homes and project designer Candace Nordquist brought the whole space together to provide the homeowners exactly what the were looking for.
ADDITION UNDER $125,000
Family Man Remodeling
Olympia Master Builders
This project’s homeowners were passionate bird watchers who dreamed of having a cozy space in their Lacey home where they could immerse themselves in nature. Having already completed the designs and engineering, they discovered Family Man Remodeling to help make their dreams come true.
Increasing the size from 11’ to 12’ by 17’ allowed new footing to be installed around the existing concrete patio, saving a considerable amount of demo and new concrete needed. This also resulted in cost savings for the homeowner.
With the structural and envelope work complete, the homeowner took charge of completing the sunroom’s exterior and interior painting, flooring, tile, trim and electrical. With Family Man Remodeling’s help, the remarkable journey of building a three-season sunroom tailored to the homeowner’s bird-watching desires was accomplished.
ADDITION OVER $250,001
Lakeville Homes by SoBella
Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties
Located in a picturesque setting near Lake Sammamish, this project involved transforming a 1960s Dutch-gabled rambler into a sophisticated modern home.
The clients had a clear vision but welcomed creative input. The primary goal was to expand the living space by adding three bedrooms, a bathroom, and a bonus/media room, along with reconfiguring the existing layout to accommodate a dedicated office and fitness room. Upgrading the kitchen and primary bathroom, as well as enhancing the flow between rooms, were also integral to the project.
The key challenge lay in the irregular floor plan and complex roof structure of the original house. The solution involved integrating the second-story addition with the existing architecture, ensuring harmony in design while maximizing natural light and views. The second-story addition was located at the rear and extended forward to the ridge of the main roof line as seen from the front. By utilizing the fascia of the eaves as structural support for expansive windows, a sleek and contemporary aesthetic was achieved.
All cabinetry was replaced with custom designs, including a stunning 10-foot island in the kitchen, and upgraded fixtures and finishes throughout, including a luxurious soaking tub. The upper-story addition features strategically placed windows that flood the space with light and offer breathtaking views of the surroundings while maintaining privacy.
The result is a home that blends tradition and modernism and will surely be enjoyed by the family of five.
AIP/UD OVER $80,001
Irons Brothers Construction
Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties
This family purchased a new Edmonds home to provide accessible living space for an unexpectedly disabled family member. With the help of Albee Interior Design, the main-floor rec room was turned into a functional, accessible, yet inviting bedroom suite.
The main goal for the bedroom was to create an open layout that left room for caregivers to maneuver a wheelchair and for the client to be transferred with a ceiling-mounted lift. Luxury vinyl plank flooring combines the warm look of wood with durability and easy maintenance, while a low-threshold sliding glass door provides access to the backyard.
AIP/UD
$60,001 - $80,000
Dickey’s Remodel & Repair
Olympia Master Builders
After a catastrophic water event in their master bathroom, the homeowners wondered if it made sense to keep a large decked tub that they never used.
With the tub and decking removed, ample space was now available for a zero-threshold walk-in shower designed to allow easy access for a walker or wheelchair and a fold-down padded shower seat. The seated bather has a separate temperature control and a separate hand shower. Niches are also within easy reach. A grab bar is mounted horizontally across from the shower seat for both standing and seated bathing.
Under-floor programmable radiant heat was installed below all floor tile,
including the shower floor. For safety, motion sensor floor-level night lighting was strategically placed for late-night bathroom visits.
Prior to the tile installation, plywood backing and waterproofing were installed in the entire shower enclosure. Existing 30”-wide doors were replaced with 36”wide pocket and hinged doors.
Large-scale shower wall tiles with custom wave tile accent bands were used for the shower walls. The pony wall was faced and capped with water-fall edge Quartz and topped with horizontally oriented rain glass. Custom paint was selected for the vanity cabinets and bathroom walls to create a layered tone-on-tone look. Stylish custom grab bars were employed as towel bars throughout.
The homeowners can now enjoy peace of mind, knowing that their stylish new bathroom is meeting their current and future needs.
The bathroom was a challenge, as extra space was needed to accommodate the wheelchair and caregiver assistance. The existing powder bathroom was expanded into the adjacent rec room, and a large curb-less shower was created. A floating sink and counter accommodate the wheelchair, while a side-mounted faucet allows for operation. A tall pullout cabinet next to the sink puts toiletries within easy reach.
Other improvements to eliminate barriers included widening doorways, adding motion sensor door openers, and eliminating the laundry closet to widen the entry and hallway. While the bathroom is completely open for access, doors were added at the suite’s entry and bedroom providing privacy.
Band Construction, Inc.
Spokane Home Builders Association
Band Construction faced several challenges in finishing this Liberty Lake basement. They started by removing the existing insulation to fur out all the walls.
Because the plumbing had been drywalled prior to the project, they had to uncover the water inlet and work around tying in electrical and mechanical.
To complete the project, they framed, drywalled and finished all the walls to create a bathroom, bedroom and spacious living and recreation area.
The Band Construction team used white trim to accentuate the client’s wall color selection and installed luxury vinyl plank flooring to match the rest of this Greenstone home.
The team worked around the client’s dogs throughout the project, including temporarily relocating the dog door. Ultimately, the team created a luxurious new space the client and his dogs love.
Back Forty Repairs, LLC
Kitsap Building Association
In this extensive Bainbridge Island remodel, Back Forty Repairs transformed an unfinished 1,500-square-foot basement with a dated bathroom into a complete entertainment space for family and friends.
The finished project includes a spacious movie room with lighted built-in cabinets and shelving, as well as a mini kitchen with a sink and beverage fridge. It also includes office space, a home gym and a laundry space with room for an extra refrigerator. The updated full bathroom has all-new cabinetry and a modern shower space to complete the look.
OPEN UNDER $125,000
Phase II, Inc.
Master Builders Association of Pierce County
This spectacular estate was meticulously planned during the construction phase, with attention to every detail—except for the minimal and muddled millwork.
The homeowners loved the wall of windows and doors in the living room. But the arched window above was disjointed and disconnected from the rest of the room—and it couldn’t be changed due to an existing roofline.
Working with designer Tara Waits, the Phase II team paneled the section encompassing the arched window and added columns and a header to give it a place to land.
They enhanced the existing fireplace millwork with a full-height wainscot that met the balcony and continued around the room.
They designed the paneling to fit the scale and height of the room, creating a backdrop appropriately sized for the family portraits. Next, the team struck out to find a way to add depth and millwork layers to the adjacent dining room.
The ceiling was already trayed with a small crown, so they installed a boxed beam pattern with additional layers of crown to anchor a beautiful chandelier.
To achieve a cozy and intimate environment, the team added a fascia to sit on top of the existing columns as if supporting the ceiling.
Then they matched the existing wainscoting details, so the ceiling looked like it had always been there. What was once muddled and minimal is now magnificent.
Millwork mission accomplished!
McCabe By Design, LLC
Kitsap Building Association
The new homeowners loved their home’s mid-bank waterfront location and its stunning view but hated the lack of functionality and low-quality materials used when it was built in 2002, especially the oppressive baby cribs on the catwalk.
To make this house “their home,” McCabe by Design remodeled the space to accommodate the homeowners’ desire to work, lounge and socialize in the living room and kitchen.
To achieve this dream space, the McCabe by Design team:
n Reframed the entire fireplace wall and replaced the chimney on the roof to accommodate a larger duct size for the new Mendota linear fireplace as well as space for the TV.
n Added a Hubbardton Forge ceiling fixture, Edge Lighting art lights, new floor outlets, and concealed audio equipment wiring.
n Reframed and blocked the catwalk with AGS Stainless + French Oak rail and glass panels; and
n Reengineered and replaced the dated wall of sliders and the basement wall below.
n This allowed them to install an extensive Kolbe multi-slide sliding glass door system to maximize the view from multiple vantage points.
n The newly remodeled home has everything the homeowners wanted and more.
Before Before
ENTIRE HOUSE UNDER $200,000
Dickey’s Remodel & Repair
Olympia Master Builders
The homeowners wanted to spend their retirement years enjoying the expansive water views in this Steamboat Island home, but the house hadn’t been upgraded since the 1970s.
They asked Dickey’s Remodel & Repair to refresh the entire home, including new flooring and millwork, kitchen, two bathrooms and electrical and HVAC upgrades.
The team installed sash-style tempered transom windows in both showers to bring in natural light.
They installed a horizontal-lay tongueand-groove accent wall behind the primary vanity adding a subtle organic reminder of the modest “fishing community” beginnings of this home.
Dickey’s used high-quality cabinetry with soft-close doors and drawers with dovetail construction for both the kitchen and the bathrooms, with satin finishes and polished quartz for easy cleaning.
The luxury vinyl plank and tile flooring used throughout are durable, warm and low maintenance, easily standing up to the demands of beach community living.
Fresh paint inside and out and new electrical and heating round out this remodel. Now, the homeowners say they are proud to host friends and neighbors in their fresh, stylish and functional home.
ENTIRE HOUSE
$200,001 - $400,000
Untamed Construction
Spokane Home Builders Association
The owners of this Long Lake remodel, designed by Mint Interiors, like to entertain and wanted to open the kitchen to the main living space for better flow.
They hated how their dark, cramped, closed-off entry blocked their amazing lake view when people entered the home.
Untamed Construction built on their designer’s vision and took some creative liberty with the custom cabinets and trim accents.
They built and painted the cabinets in-house, including unique hardware and walnut interiors to match the new walnut trim and accents, creating a warm and rich look throughout.
Then they included:
n A Sugatsune bi-parting synchronized pocket door track
n A Salice Coplanar sliding cabinet door system
n WALL-SMART flush outlets and switches
n A Viewrail Rod Railing System to really round out the luxury aesthetic
Now the homeowners can entertain friends and family in a comfortable yet beautiful new space showcasing their lovely lake view from the moment they enter the home.
Before
ENTIRE HOUSE
$400,001 - $600,000
Band Construction, Inc.
Spokane Home Builders Association
Working with designer Tammy Ladd, Band Construction helped these clients modernize their newly acquired Kendall Yards condominium.
The project was not without its challenges. To create the open concept the clients desired, the team needed to remove a column that, while not structural, housed ventilation pipes and other utilities the team discovered when they exposed them.
They also discovered that the upstairs shower plumbing was failing and that the shower wall was inadequately insulated. Working within budgetary considerations, they resolved each obstacle in a timely, cost-effective fashion, with full input and approval from the homeowner as necessary.
The team framed in the existing stairwell to accommodate a custom-made stair system. The new powder room features a custom wall finish that resembles marble and a quartz integral sink accented by an offset mirror.
They added a gas fireplace insert with a level five smooth wall finish surround in the living area, and they remodeled the kitchen with waterfall countertops and frameless cabinets.
They added new living space in the primary by replacing French doors with a barn door system. They also upgraded the bathtub to a curbless shower.
All-in-all, they updated the kitchen, dining and living rooms, two bathrooms and a powder room, the primary bedroom, garage and more, with new countertops, backsplashes, flooring, lighting, paint and trims.
ENTIRE HOUSE OVER $600,001
Yonkman Construction, Inc.
Skagit/Island Counties Builders Association
When the homeowners approached Yonkman Construction, Inc., to update their entire home, they wanted them to address everything from the:
n uninviting muted front entrance
n weather-torn decks, and
n dated stone wall to
n the closed-off kitchen and living room
The enclosed staircase and the awkwardly placed three-sided pier-brick fireplace separated the kitchen and living room, creating a closed-off, congested area.
Working with designer Janet Lucek of Janet Lucek Interior Design, the Yonkman team transformed the home inside and out.
The team raised the sunken living room floor flush with the kitchen and installed wood-topped custom metal railings to update the entryway and create a more open and contemporary space.
They added professional-grade appliances to the kitchen. They then built a large central island, creating an eating space large enough to seat the entire family while also functioning as a work and prep space for cooking.
The craftsmanship and custom cabinetry flow seamlessly into the adjacent dining room and butler’s pantry.
In the end, this design was exactly what the homeowners wanted, providing abundant natural light and an openconcept floor plan.
and out.
The minimalist color palette of warm wood tones, soft whites and charcoal blacks creates a warm and inviting atmosphere inside
Before
Before
HISTORIC RENOVATION/RESTORATION
Dunamis Interiors & Design Build
Olympia Master Builders
Dunamis Interiors & Design Build set forth on a mission to modernize the Kennedy historic home remodel without compromising period styling details.
The primary bathroom upstairs featured a raised floor from a previous remodel for slope.
The Dunamis team leveled the floor and restored the slope by lowering the 10-foot ceilings in the dining room and guest bathroom below.
The team captured unused attic space and added custom built-in shelving and
wall niches, then built a new walk-in shower, brought the refurbished clawfoot tub up from the guest bathroom and added period-style hex floor tiles and Calacatta wall tiles.
Nickel fixtures, beveled frameless mirrors and fresh lighting complement the cherry vanity and make-up space and polish off this pretty and functional new suite.
Dunamis updated the kitchen on the main floor with custom shaker cabinets in a historic juniper green with modern interior organization mechanisms.
They added a farmhouse sink and a new appliance package with oilrubbed bronze period-style hardware and fixtures, hand-cut subway tile and Calacatta gold quartz counter tops.
The guest bath upgrade included a new walk-in shower, modified antique furniture for the vanity and cabinets, and a mini hex tile floor, wainscot and period wallcovering.
The homeowners love how Dumanis upgraded their home while maintaining its historic charm.
Titan Builders, LLC
North Peninsula Building Association
When Titan Builders came into the picture, they found a modified garage being used as a living space with no permit.
Titan Builders helped permit the structure and then fully remodeled it into a super adorable cottage with a fresh new look for the homeowner to enjoy.
OUTDOOR LIVING UNDER $100,000
Crescent Builds
Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties
This garden shed addition enhances the functionality of our clients’ gardens and harmonizes with the architectural style of the sunroom. Both structures share a unified visual language, contributing to the overall cohesion of the garden and backyard while serving different functional needs.
Constrained by a maximum footprint of 200 square feet, the primary objective was to enhance the original shed’s
functionality while preserving its spatial relationship to the existing garden beds.
The space planning strategy involved thoughtful additions, including a potting station, open shelving, and hanging storage for garden tools and supplies.
Crescent Builds designed the form and layout to integrate a prefabricated greenhouse kit featuring a fully automated thermal regulation system.
This not only extended the shed’s usability throughout the seasons but saved the client money by avoiding a custom design.
The interior is clad in minimal finishes, featuring exposed wood framing, plywood walls, and concrete floors, allowing the materials to shine in their pure state.
Replacing traditional swing doors with dual barn doors allowed for minimal spatial intrusion at the entrance. The asymmetrical roof design serves a dual purpose. Not only does it add visual interest, but it also guides the eye towards a row of clerestory windows similar to those in the sunroom addition, framing picturesque views of the surrounding trees.
This cohesive approach creates a harmonious blend between functionality, aesthetics and nature-conscious design.
OUTDOOR LIVING
OVER $100,001
Northlight Custom Builders
Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties
The homeowners wanted an escape from their daily lives, somewhere outdoors to retreat. Before, the space was uncovered, soggy, unused and undervalued with its fantastic views.
Living in a relatively neutral but wet climate opened an opportunity to utilize their lackluster outdoor space.
Designer Fobes Hill Studio hit all the marks in creating a relaxing, covered, multi-functional space perfect for entertaining and year-round use.
The four main sections of the layout include:
n An outdoor kitchen and dining room
n A heated outdoor living room with a sofa and television
n An uncovered sun lounge
n And a hot tub platform for the ultimate relaxation and entertainment experience
These areas are bridged by a doublesided fireplace to tie everything together. The challenging parts of this project had to do with drainage issues and narrow site access.
Due to impervious surface restrictions and a highly water-saturated yard, creating a system under the deck to drain the runoff was skillfully planned and executed with the building department.
Designed to incorporate natural and sustainable materials, the project includes composite decking, timber, stucco, and metal finishes.
The natural materials create a space that’s as comfortable as being inside while allowing you to be outside to enjoy what nature has to offer.
Band Construction, Inc.
Spokane Home Builders Association
Designed by Eighty-Eight Architecture, this intense remodel transformed what was originally a childcare center into an eye-catching space that accommodates all the clients’ needs.
From the start, the team found the building in such disarray it was challenging to incorporate electrical, communications, HVAC and plumbing. They had to skim coat all the walls because they had been so badly damaged.
Then they had to meet unexpected electrical requirements due to the engineering of the project.
True professionals, the Band Construction team accommodated many changes as they arose, including adding changes and new requirements as the project proceeded and addressing outof-scope issues like roof leaks, requiring after-hours emergency work.
In the end, the clients loved their new storefront, including a welcoming reception desk, space for meetings and trainings, an area to host demonstrations and attractive display space for all their equipment.
BIAW’s natural gas initiative certified for November ballot
Know the facts to fight back
by Janelle Guthrie BIAW Communications Director
For years, BIAW and others have fought attempts to restrict or ban natural gas as an energy choice on multiple fronts. This despite the fact our state overwhelmingly supports access to natural gas as an energy choice.
BIAW drafted Initiative 2066 to protect people’s right to choose natural gas and propane as an energy source and to prohibit politically motivated gas bans at every level of government, at any time and across our state.
Thanks to everyone’s hard work to get the word out, more than half a million people signed petitions to get it on the November ballot. On July 25, the Secretary of State certified it for the November ballot.
Now it’s time for everyone to VOTE YES on I-2066!
Arm yourself with natural gas facts
The opposition is already spreading misinformation to confuse voters. And it’s only going to get worse. Here are some common accusations—and the truth you need to fight back.
Estimate Your Cost to Convert Natural Gas Appliances to Electric
THEY SAY: The fossil fuel industry is funding this initiative so they can keep polluting the planet.
WE SAY: The top industry contributors to I-2066 are the building, real estate, hearth and patio and hospitality industries. We all oppose bans on natural gas and propane because they add unnecessary costs to our members and their customers who rely on natural gas and propane for energy security and want to have natural gas stoves, furnaces, fireplaces, water heaters and grills. Our diverse group of supporters see renewable natural gas as a way to decarbonize while maintaining reliability of energy delivery.
THEY SAY: There is no natural gas ban so there is no need for this initiative.
WE SAY: I-2066 prohibits natural gas bans in any form, anywhere and at any level and protects energy choice for the families and businesses in Washington who rely on it for cooking, heating their homes and providing reliable energy service now and into the future.
The final version of Puget Sound Energy’s (PSE) bill (HB 1589) in the 2024 legislative session included a requirement to plan to end natural gas service and convert users to all-electric service (Section 4(3) h).
The governor praised this bill in a news conference as helping the state “get out of the fossil fuel business” by 2050. Couple this with the Washington State Building Code Council’s new energy codes, making it so cost-prohibitive to include natural gas service in new construction that it doesn’t make sense to do so, and you have a natural gas ban in Washington—regardless of what they want to call it or when it goes into effect.
If there truly is “no gas ban,” opponents should support our efforts to protect energy choice.
THEY SAY: Natural gas stoves cause children to have asthma.
WE SAY: The most recent study, funded by the World Health Organization, debunked earlier studies claiming natural gas stoves caused childhood asthma. It found no significant association between natural gas and asthma. Absent natural gas as a backup energy source, many homeowners turn to other sources for heating and cooking, like woodstoves. And burning wood has been proven to be much more likely to cause or worsen asthma. The EPA, Lung Association, and others all agree!
THEY SAY: We must ban natural gas in homes to reduce carbon emissions and fight climate change.
WE SAY: According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Washington state accounts for 0.19% of the world’s carbon emissions—twotenths of one percent. Residential energy use accounts for between 18 and 20% of those emissions–and of that only a fraction is attributed to natural gas use. Converting existing homes from natural gas to electric will cost on average $40,000 and building new homes under our restrictive energy codes adds $13,000 to the cost of a new home. The cost-benefit analysis simply doesn’t pencil out.
THEY SAY: I-2066 will take away clean energy rebates and incentives
WE SAY: I-2066 preserves energy choice for everyone. The legislature, through HB 1589, removed incentives and rebates for energy-efficient natural gas use. I-2066 restores them. The federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) includes incentives and rebates for other energy-efficient appliances, like heat pumps, and nothing in I-2066 takes that away.
THEY SAY: I-2066 limits access to “state-of-the-art heating and cooling equipment that will save money as energy costs increase.”
WE SAY: Nothing in I-2066 limits access to equipment or appliances. However, forcing consumers to purchase this equipment and/or appliances will stress the supply chain and artificially drive up the costs of equipment and appliances. Already builders struggle to purchase the equipment needed to comply with Washington’s stringent energy codes for new construction, like transformers, mini-splits and windows.
Visit protectenergychoice.com for more information on I-2066!
Summer Board Meeting Highlights
Thank you to all the directors, staff and members who joined us June 24-26 at the 2024 BIAW Summer Board Meeting at Skamania Lodge! We appreciate your time and dedication to the homebuilding industry and our issues.
BIAW celebrates three new Professional Women in Building councils
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Professional Women in Building (PWB) chair Luellen Smith celebrated the charters of three new PWB councils in Washington: Central Washington Home Builders Association (1), Master Builders Association of Pierce County (2) and Building Industry Association of Whatcom County (3). BIAW now has six chartered local association PWB councils. The group plans to submit a bylaws amendment to the board of directors at the 2024 Fall Board Meeting in Vancouver to establish a state PWB council in Washington.
Let’s Go Washington joined the BIAW Board of Directors and guests at the June 25th luncheon to thank everyone for their work to introduce Initiative 2066 and help collect signatures. Ultimately, BIAW and Let’s Go Washington submitted over 546,000 signatures to the Secretary of State’s Office for validation.
Board members gave a standing ovation as Dave Reichert, Republican candidate for governor, took the stage to deliver the luncheon keynote on improving Washington’s cost of living, reducing crime and addressing barriers to home building. Board members later voted to endorse Reichert for governor as well as the three Let’s Go Washington initiatives on November’s ballot.
The Kentucky Derby-themed Spike Party had the highest attendance in recent times with a special presentation by Dennis Poppe, part owner of Commanding Curve, runner up in the 2014 Kentucky Derby. Members, staff and guests donned their Derby Day best to celebrate top Spikes, bid on BUILD-PAC auction items and enjoy great food, drinks and dancing.
The Associate Advisory Council hosted another successful Mini Masters Putt-Putt Golf Tournament with Mark Kroll from the Building Industry Association of Clark County winning the coveted green jacket!
(l) BIAW voted to endorse Gary Campbell for NAHB Third Vice Chair after hearing his plans for the future.
(r) NAHB First Vice Chair Buddy Hughes gave BIAW board members an update on national advocacy work supporting the building industry in Washington, DC.
Dave Reichert earns BIAW’s endorsement for governor
Mini Masters Golf Tournament
NAHB visitors share national perspectives
Spike Party celebrates top recruiters in Derby Day style
ROII continues to rock the WA State Tour ‘24
Apex Construction LLC at the Central Washington Home Builders Association North Central Golf Classic on June 6 at Desert Canyon Golf Resort in Orondo.
Our amazing ROII staff have been rockin’ around the state, continuing their 2024 Washington State Tour. With more than 12 tour stops around the state, ROII continues to deliver results, big checks and FUN to members!
This year, ROII received nearly $33 million from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) for the three active plan years.
For the 2022 plan year, they achieved a remarkable 44.5% refund for the first adjustment. And for the 2021 plan year, they hit an impressive 47% refund for the second adjustment.
The cherry on top? The 2020 plan year concluded with an outstanding final adjustment refund of 47%, marking ROII’s highest final adjustment refund ever!
Be sure to stop by the ROII hole at the next local association golf tournament to learn how you could get money back on your L&I premiums. Learn more at ROII.com.
ROII won Best Hole Sponsor at the OMB Golf Classic again this year!
The ROII team at the Master Builders Association of Pierce County Golf Classic on June 20 at the North Shore Golf Club in Tacoma.
ROII staff at the Olympia Master Builders (OMB) Golf Classic on July 19 at the Capitol City Golf Course in Olympia.
Compass Construction at the Spokane Home Builders Association 30th Annual Golf Tournament on June 20 at Wandermere Golf Course in Spokane.
ROII staff at the Lower Columbia Contractors Association on June 7 in Kelso.
Cliff Thorn Construction at the Home Builders Association of Tri-Cities Don Pratt Memorial Golf Tournament on June 14 at the Canyon Lakes Golf Course in Kennewick.
DH Construction & Associates LLC at the Central Washington Home Builders Association Yakima Golf Tournament on May 23 at Apple Tree Resort in Yakima.
Heat and smoke on the agenda for L&I compliance inspectors
by Bob White ROII Safety Services Director
New Permanent Heat Rules
A little over a year ago, L&I released new heat rules requiring employers to prepare workers for hot temperatures. Now employers must:
n Encourage and allow employees to take preventative cool-down rest periods at or above outdoor temperature action levels.
n Provide workers additional paid, cool-down rest periods of 10 minutes or more every two hours when temperatures are 90°F or hotter. Breaks get longer and more frequent when temperatures rise to 100°F and beyond.
n Address outdoor heat exposure safety in their Accident Prevention Program (APP) and provide annual training on outdoor heat exposure for employees and supervisors.
n Closely observe employees who may not be acclimated to the heat and provide all employees with a sufficient amount of cool drinking water and time to drink it as well as adequate shade or alternative cooling methods.
n Have emergency procedures in place to respond appropriately to any employee with symptoms of heat-related illness. Additionally, supervisors and employees must always have a way to communicate with each other to promptly report heat illness and get medical assistance.
More heat safety resources can be found on L&I’s website lni.wa.gov/safetyhealth/safety-training-materials/ workshops-events/beheatsmart. Stakeholder meetings for new Indoor Heat Stress Rules may also be coming before the end of the year.
Register for BIAW’s Heat-Related Illness Awareness course at biaw.com/classes to learn more about keeping workers safe when peak temperatures hit.
New Permanent Wildfire Smoke Rules
In January, L&I introduced new wildfire smoke rules, requiring all covered employers to:
n Prepare a written wildfire smoke response plan.
n Provide wildfire smoke training to employees.
n Watch the PM2.5 conditions and forecasts.
n Prepare a two-way communication system.
n Make provisions for prompt medical treatment, and permit that treatment without retaliation.
If air quality levels worsen to an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 69-100, the requirements increase, including considering the voluntary use of respirators, limiting who works outdoors and thinking about implementing exposure controls.
When the AQI is between 101-300, L&I requires employers to make N95 respirators available for voluntary use
and implement exposure controls. This includes providing enclosed structures or vehicles with adequately filtered air, relocating or changing work schedules and providing additional rest periods.
The requirements continue to increase as the AQI increases beyond 301. More information is available at lni.wa.gov/ safety-health/safety-topics/topics/ wildfire-smoke
Free L&I Consultations
Employers should be prepared to address all the above in their worksite safety plan or “walkaround” safety inspection. If you’re unsure if you comply, take advantage of L&I’s Safety Consultation Services.
You can request a consultation, get help with risk management and ergonomics, or get other safety and health questions answered. Consultations offer many different types of services. They’re free, confidential and safe from citation.
L&I safety consultants are your advocates to help protect you from expensive safety citations and maintain a safer workplace. These consultation resources can be found at lni.wa.gov/ safety-health/preventing-injuriesillnesses/request-consultation/.
If you are an ROII participant and would like to receive regular safety updates, or have ideas for safety topics, please contact Bob at (360) 352-7800 ext. 109 or bobw@biaw.com.
Not an ROII member? Learn more about ROII at roii.com.
Building Industry Association of Washington
300 Deschutes Way SW, Ste. 300 | Tumwater, WA 98501 (360) 352-7800 | BIAW.com |
UPCOMING CLASSES
*Free to ROII Participants
Heat-Related Illness Awareness
August 23 | Online
Help Minimize Risk: Condition Your Workforce for Safety*
September 10 | BIAWC, Bellingham
Certified Erosion & Sediment Control Lead (CESCL)
September 17-18 | Online
Fall Protection Awareness/Ladder Safety*
September 19 | Online
Certified Erosion & Sediment Control Lead (CESCL)
September 19 | Online
CESCL Recertification
October 10-11 | Online
Certified Lead Renovator - Initial
October 11 | HBATC, Kennewick
Certified Lead Renovator - Refresher
October 11 | HBATC, Kennewick
CPR, AED and Basic First Aid Training
October 16 | BIAW, Tumwater
CESCL Recertification
October 18 | Online
CAPS 1: Marketing & Communicating with the Aging-In-Place Client
October 30 | BIAW, Tumwater
CAPS 2: Design Concepts for Livable Homes and Aging In Place
October 31 | BIAW, Tumwater
CAPS 3: Details & Solutions for Livable Homes and Aging in Place
November 1 | BIAW, Tumwater
- Minimize liability and reduce financial risk. - Attract more buyers and boost the home’s value.
- Wide range of warranty options and terms.
- Our free mediation process resolves about 95% of claims.