May 2021 Building Insight by BIAW

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Table of contents

WHO WE ARE The Building Industry Association of Washington is the state’s largest trade association representing thousands of companies in the home building industry.

Jessica Bass, ROII Enrollment Manager

BIAW is dedicated to ensuring and enhancing the vitality of the building industry for the benefit of its members and the housing needs of Washington.

BIAW MANAGEMENT Executive Vice President Greg Lane Education and Workforce Development Director Al Audette Communications Director Janelle Guthrie Government Affairs Director Jan Himebaugh ROII Director Jenn Kavanaugh Association Services Director Brenda Kwieciak General Counsel Jackson Maynard Finance and Human Resources Director Pam Hines

B U I L DI NG INSI G H T ED I TO R I A L S TA F F Communications Director Janelle Guthrie Communications Manager Bailee Wicks Layout and Design Lena Anderson

To submit editorial or advertise, contact communications@biaw.com.

Building Insight is proudly printed by:

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Professional home remodeling designations make a difference May is National Remodeling Month

2021 session: Some solid successes and last-minute losses April 25 marked the end to an extremely difficult 105-day, all video conference session

New partnerships offer diverse on-demand education classes BIAW partners with three organizations to offer courses at a discount or free to members

Scholarship and grant application deadline approaches

BIAW celebrates remodelers’ successes

BIAW and its Education Program offers a record-breaking $60,000 in scholarships and grant funding

Checkout the 2020 Excellence in Remodeling (EIR) award winners

may 2021

President’s message With the 2021 session behind us, we’re looking ahead to BIAW’s 2021 membership drive, scheduled to kick off July 1. This is a good time to remind everyone why we belong to our local associations and to encourage you to share the opportunity with others. As members of our local home builders associations, you automatically gain access to all the benefits that come with state and national membership. The largest trade association in the state, BIAW has nearly 8,000 member companies, giving us significant clout across the state.

Tracy Doriot, BIAW Certified Builder President

Advocacy: A key benefit for members Despite the shenanigans of the final days of session when lawmakers passed a new capital gains income tax, a new cap-and-trade bill, and a new low carbon fuel standard, our advocacy efforts paid off in a number of areas. Here’s just one example. Remember when our government affairs team asked us to send messages to lawmakers urging them to vote no on SB 5149? That was the bill that would have added a $3.25 per person fee to health insurance policies in Washington to fund “foundational” health. If this had passed, you would have paid an additional $147 per person per year. Then multiple that by the roughly 50,000 people BIAW and Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties members have covered under our health plans. Thanks to the hard work of our lobbying team, SB 5149 died in the Senate Ways & Means Committee, saving members a minimum of $2 million a year. With the 2021 legislative session in the rearview mirror, it’s now safe to celebrate a little—and give thanks to our hardworking government affairs and lobbying team for their diligence and dedication in holding bad bills at bay. Workforce development: Finding skilled workers for your jobs Another key benefit for members is workforce development. We know finding skilled workers is an ongoing challenge so we’ve added a new construction-specific job board powered by CompanyWide. CompanyWide helps connect students and skilled tradespeople with construction companies seeking to hire quality workers on an easyto-use online hiring platform. BIAW members can post jobs for free and instantly browse resumes of interested workers. Workers can also post resumes and look for work for free. Additionally, CompanyWide has a portal for teachers to help their students develop training plans and post jobs. Finding skilled workers is key to your success. We’re here for you! What does membership mean to you? Back when I joined BIAW, I recognized the value of banding together with likeminded people and leveraging the power of our state and national organizations to promote and protect our livelihoods. As we work together to introduce others to this opportunity, what’s your story? As your president, I am working hard to meet as many BIAW members as I can. If I haven’t met you, feel free to reach out.

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National Remodeling Month

Professional home building and remodeling designations make a difference by Bailee Wicks

Communications Manager

May is National Remodeling Month and BIAW wants to focus on the many remodelers that make our association so great.

National Remodeling Month

During the last year, people spent more time at home than ever before. This caused many people to think about remodeling their home. As a remodeler with a designation, you can reassure your clients they are working with a professional who is committed to staying up to date with the latest technology, building methods and business practices. BIAW puts an emphasis on continuing education and evolving techniques to better suit future clientele. Through the National Association of Home Builders, members of the residential construction industry can earn professional designations. A building professional with a designation has dedicated time to learn about a specific building area of interest.

Aging-in-place specialists enhance accessibility (CAPS) Earning the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation ensures that you know how to address common age-related barriers. You can modify the home so that an elderly resident will be safe and comfortable. Common modifications include widening doors to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility aids, adding ramps and installing shower bars to improve safety. Certified Green Professional (CGP) Another sought-after designation by homebuyers is the Certified Green Professional (CGP). Experts with this designation learn how to incorporate green and sustainable building principles into homes without driving up the cost of construction. CGPs are trained in design and construction practices to optimize energy efficiency, enhance indoor and outdoor water conservation, improve indoor environmental quality and select sustainable building products. Professionals with remodeler designations offer years of experience, the right tools, a network of suppliers and subcontractors, and an in-depth understanding of legal regulations, cost estimating, and the latest construction techniques and materials. To find out what classes BIAW has scheduled to gain these certifications, visit BIAW.com/classes. If you have any questions, contact BIAW Education and Certification Manager Hillary Vanatta at hillaryv@ biaw.com or at (360) 352-7800 ext. 106.

may 2021

Executive Vice President’s message Make no mistake about it. The 2021 Legislative Session was the most difficult one our industry has faced in decades. Not only did the governor and majority party introduce an unprecedented number of anti-housing bills this year, but lawmakers “convening” remotely for the first time in history made it more difficult than ever before to access and participate in the legislative process. Given all that BIAW was up against, however, our government affairs team had a remarkably successful session protecting residential construction. This includes our local association government affairs staff, BIAW’s contract lobbyists, and most importantly, the active participation of BIAW members.

Greg Lane

Executive Vice President

BIAW prevents anti-housing bills from passing Climate Change in the Growth Management Act HB 1099 would have added reducing climate change as a GMA goal, further limiting the land available for housing. Washington already faces a huge housing shortage. This would have only made this crisis worse. Direct Contractor Liability This issue once again failed to pass thanks to testimony from BIAW members. SB 5278 would have held general contractors responsible if their subcontractors failed to pay wages and benefits to employees. This is L&I’s job. Vesting Vested rights in land use are critical in making land investments for housing. SB 5042 would have created new uncertainty by damaging vesting for builders who rely on regulations and land use plans from local governments to make land acquisition and development plans. Greenhouse Gases Gov. Inslee’s climate change legislation, SB 5093, would have prohibited natural gas in new housing, significantly increased state Energy Code requirements and authorized local jurisdictions to adopt restrictions beyond the state code. Net Ecological Gain HB 1117 would have increased mitigation standards from “no net loss” to “net ecological gain” on certain projects and added a salmon recovery goal to the GMA, increasing the costs of sewer, electricity, gas, roads, etc. for homes. While BIAW was successful in stopping anti-housing legislation, the Legislature did, unfortunately, approve other bills that hurt employers and the economy. Initially portrayed as a session that would focus on COVID relief and economic recovery, the majority party eventually revealed their true intention was instead expanding government programs funded by new taxes. Thank you again to everyone who signed in and testified on issues facing our industry. Legislators heard you and you made an impact. Summer Board Meeting I hope you’ll join us at the BIAW summer board meeting June 7-9 at Suncadia Resort. It will be full of important business and policy discussions, as well as the return of the Spike Party and Excellence in Remodeling Awards Reception. I am looking forward to seeing you all.

building insight

Spike Party: Spikes and Spurs

Summer board meeting set at Suncadia Resort by Bailee Wicks Communications Manager

Save the date! BIAW’s summer board meeting will take place at Suncadia Resort June 7-9. A highlight of the meeting is the annual Spike Party scheduled for Tuesday, June 8. All members are welcome to attend all committee and council meetings.

Spikes & Spurs

BIAW is heading west, as in a westernthemed hoedown showdown. Come join us for BIAW’s annual Spike Party, a celebration to help honor Spikes and their recruiting efforts. Save the date for Tuesday, June 8 at Suncadia Resort at The Nelson Farm.

Live Entertainment

BBQ dinner

Drinks Prizes

And much, much more!

Free for qualified Spikes + one guest $40 for non-qualifiers Qualifiers will receive an email invite prior to the event.

The Spike Party will take place at just offsite of Suncadia Resort at The Nelson Farm. A free shuttle will bus members and guests to and from the event.

may 2021

Legislative Update

2021 session: Some solid successes and last-minute losses by Jan Himebaugh

Government Affairs Director

“No man’s life, liberty or property are safe while the legislature is in session,” is a quote attributed to Mark Twain. And congratulations, your life, liberty and property are safer than they were just a few weeks ago. Although, all of those things may be less abundant now.

April 25 marked 2021 Legislative Sine Die: A welcome end to the extremely difficult 105-day, all video conference session. The last weekend of session saw some fairly massive policies pass—a state capital gains income tax, a cap and trade carbon monstrosity, lowcarbon fuel standards and making drug possession a misdemeanor. It was a doozy of an end to a grueling session. Staving off costly new ideas However, because of BIAW’s advocacy efforts and broad member engagement, arduous policies targeting land availability and housing construction stalled, including some significant land-constraining and exaction-expanding schemes in the Growth Management Act (GMA). Efforts to add climate change, salmon, net ecological gain and tribal consultation into the GMA failed to get final legislative approval. All of these measures would have increased the cost of new homes in Washington at a time when housing is increasingly difficult for new homeowners to afford. Adding balance We were also able to improve bills that lacked regulatory clarity and certainty like shoreline armoring and environmental justice. Clarity and certainty are critical principles for the regulated, the regulators and the environment. Thanks to this work, there is a clear guide and path both to moving forward on projects and in agency rulemaking. 8

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Protecting employees and your bottom line BIAW’s team and members were also incredibly active on the labor policy front, most importantly, on “qui tam” and direct contractor liability. In this instance, qui tam is the legal principle that allows third parties to bring employment violation claims on behalf of anyone at any time instead of seeking the appropriate remedy through the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). This policy has crippled employers in states like California. And direct contractor liability requires any general contractor to pay the wages and benefits of all of the subcontractors’ employees if the subcontractor doesn’t pay, again instead of seeking the current remedy for wage violations at L&I. BIAW was able to ward off these two bad labor bills, in addition to a whole lot more. BIAW also saved our members enrolled in our association health plan over $2 million annually. Thank you BIAW members through the Legislative Policy Committee and Legislative Strategy Committee drive the legislative agenda; and our legislative successes this year are due to your engagement in an unprecedented session. These efforts would not have been successful without your participation. If you have ideas for how to improve housing in Washington, contact me at janh@biaw.com or (360) 352-7800 x 135.

Past Second Vice Presidents’ Council

New BIAW council defines its purpose Past Second Vice Presidents’ Council

by LouAnne Neill

Past Second Vice Presidents’ Council Chair

New BIAW council defines its purpose by LouAnne Neill Past Second Vice Presidents’ Council Chair

Past Second Vice Presidents’ Council members and guests gather for the group’s March meeting at the BIAW office. (l to r) BIAW Second Vice President Nick Gilliland, Bob Kagy (’13), Darylene Dennon (’07), BIAW President Tracy Doriot, PSVPC Chair LouAnne Neill (’20), Chris Lockhart (’19), Merrilee DeForest (’01), Bob Moe (’06), Debbi Boyd (’18), Scott Rainwater (’11), Linda Mosier-Vaudt (’08), and Juli Bacon (’09). Past Second Vice Presidents’ Council members and guests gather for the group’s March meeting at the BIAW office. (l to r) BIAW Second Vice President

Nick Gilliland, Kagy (’13), Darylene Dennon (’07), BIAW President Tracy Doriot, PSVPC Chair LouAnne Neill (’20), Chris Lockhart (’19), Merrilee As you may recall,Bobduring the 2020 winter board Fast forward to 2021 DeForest (’01), Bob Moe (’06), Debbi Boyd (’18), Scott Rainwater (’11), Linda Mosier-Vaudt (’08), and Juli Bacon (’09). of directors’ meeting, directors approved a motion The PSVPC has held two meetings, one virtual As you may recall, during the 2020 winter board Fast forward to 2021 amending the BIAW Bylaws Article XIII, Section (February) and one in-person (March). The inof directors’ meeting, directors approved a motion The PSVPC has held two meetings, one virtual 2, creating a Past Second Vice Presidents’ Council person meeting at the BIAWThe office amending the BIAW Bylaws Article XIII, Section (February) and one in-person (March). in- was filled with (PSVPC).2,All past asecond viceVice presidents shall be many familiar 13 past creating Past Second Presidents’ Council person meeting at thefaces, BIAW and officeover was filled with second vice All immediate past second vice presidents many familiar faces, and over the 13 past secondworking vice members(PSVPC). and the past secondshall vicebe presidents attended half-day lunch members and the immediate past second vice presidents attended the half-day working lunch president shall be the named chair of the council. For meeting. Some in the group had never even met! The president shall be the named chair of the council. For meeting. Some in the group had never even met! The 2021, that’s me! group discussed, among other the criteria for 2021, that’s me! group discussed, among other things, the things, criteria for the positions of second vice president and secretary, the positions of second vice president and secretary, Unfortunately, to COVID-relatedrestrictions, restrictions, the Unfortunately, due todue COVID-related the as well as the candidate application form. as well as the candidate application form. first in-person meeting of the PSVPCwas was delayed delayed first in-person meeting of the PSVPC

until November 2020 during the fall board meeting in

One comment from the group, “What criteria? I didn’t

until November 2020 during the fall board meeting in One comment from the group, “What criteria? I didn’t Vancouver. know there was criteria. Somebody just pulled me Vancouver. know theremewas criteria. Somebody just pulled me aside and asked if I wanted to be the secretary,” Defining our purpose and responsibilities aside and asked me if I wanted to be the secretary,” received many nods of agreement, along with a few the fall meeting, our first order of business DefiningDuring our purpose and responsibilities laughs, and several chimed in “Me, too!” received many nods of agreement, along with a few wasfall to define the purpose andorder responsibilities of the During the meeting, our first of business Council. Our main topics of discussion centered on: Thelaughs, group looks to chimed the next meeting the andforward several in “Me,attoo!” was to define the purpose and responsibilities of the June board meeting, Tuesday, June 8, 2:30-3:30pm Duties of the positions of Secretary and Council. Our1. main topics of discussion centered on: withThe group looks forward to the next meeting at the a focus on creating a mentorship program Second Vice President (the secretary moves and how to attract quality candidates to leadership June board meeting, Tuesday, June 8, 2:30-3:30pm 1. Dutiesinto the position of the second vice president of the positions of Secretary and positions within BIAW. Please note: The PSVPC with a focus on creating a mentorship program Secondthe following year) Vice President (the secretary moves meetings are open to all BIAW members, and I and how to attract quality candidates to leadership 2. How candidates are chosen and the into the position of the second vice president welcome you to attend! interview process positions within BIAW. Please note: The PSVPC the following year) I look forward to updating you on the Council’s meetings are open to all BIAW members, and I 3. Recruiting/mentoring quality candidates for progress in the coming months. 2. How candidates are chosen and the these leadership positions welcome you to attend! interview process I look forward to updating you on the Council’s 3. Recruiting/mentoring quality candidates for progress in the coming months.may 2021 9 these leadership positions

may 2021

ROII Enrollment

ROII finishes another great year and breaks record by Jenn Kavanaugh ROII Director

The results are in! The results are in! BIAW is proud to announce that participating Washington businesses have earned a first adjustment refund of 39.5% for the 2019-2020 plan year. Additionally, the group finished the 2017-18 plan year with a final adjustment of 43.5%. ROII’s 2017-18 plan year 43.5% finish is the largest group refund in program history! Thank you to our participants for all their hard work and commitment to safety. We couldn’t achieve these outstanding results without you. BIAW’s ROII program received a check for over $30 million!

Jenn Kavanaugh, ROII Director

building insight

It’s not too late to enroll See if you qualify today and take advantage of our top-tier refunds, unequaled outcome-based claims assistance, safety and prevention services, risk management services and return-to-work assistance. All of our services are provided in-house, with no hidden fees (unlike some Retro programs that use additional fees to chip away at your bottom line— while adding to theirs.)

Greg Lane, Executive Vice President

Krystal Lucas, ROII Claim Representative

ROII consistently delivers better L&I refunds. In fact, ROII has returned over $500 million in refunds to participating members since 1982.

ROII GROUP REFUNDS

L&I REFUNDS

45% 40% 35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0%

2011-12

roii

grip abc smart a team

2012-13

2013-14

2014-15

2015-16

2016-17 2017-18

COMPLETED PLAN YEARS While ROII offers more services than you can shake a 2 x 4 at, here’s a peek into some of our participants’ favorites: CLAIMS ASSISTANCE:

RISK MANAGEMENT:

Our seasoned claim reps go straight to L&I on your behalf to get claims closed quicker. Rest assured; we’ll keep a pulse on your claim every step of the way.

Our job is to identify risk and assist you with implementing preventative measures to avoid claims from happening. If a claim does occur, we offer strategies to help control the severity and cost of the injury.

SAFETY AND PREVENTION:

RETURN-TO-WORK:

The best injury claim is the one that never happens. Because prevention is our top priority, we’re here to help you develop and implement effective safety strategies.

Our goal is to keep an injured worker engaged in the recovery process and connected with their employer to help ensure better outcomes. Each claim is unique, as is our customized return-to-work strategy approach.

Get started at ROII.com or email enroll@roii.com. may 2021

ROII

generations of trust. strength in numbers.  Reward #6 is one we don’t take lightly here at ROII. It’s the trust Washington businesses like yours have put in us since 1982. Trust to help them with tools to keep their employees—and business—safer. And of course, trust that they will receive industry-leading refunds, with an average savings of 36%. That’s $500M back into bottom lines. The ROII group has earned a 1st adjustment refund of 39.5% for the 2019-20 plan year. Additionally, the group finished the 2017-18 plan year with a final adjustment of 43.5%, which is the largest refund in ROII group history! Maybe that’s why ROII is the workers’ comp safety program trusted by more Washington businesses.

Get started today at ROII.com or visit BIAW.com/ROII to download our brochure. 12

building insight

ROII Safety Services

Heat stress safety and rules by Bob White ROII Safety Services Director

The sunshine and warmer weather bring a smile to many faces but it’s important to remember that working outside in hot weather is also a health hazard. All employers with employees who work outside must comply with the requirements of WAC 29662-095 through 296-62-09560 from May 1 through Sept. 30 annually when employees are exposed to outdoor heat at or above the applicable temperature listed below. Outdoor temperature action levels These rules kick in when an employee wearing the following types of clothing is working at the temperatures listed below.

All employees must be held accountable for: n Answering questions from an L&I inspector regarding rules n When did documented training occur and what are the trigger temperatures? n Identifying symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion n Ensuring they are hydrating frequently Heat stroke and heat exhaustionBoth medical emergencies During a heat stroke, you may witness or experience the following symptoms: dry and pale skin, irritability, seizure or fits, hot red skin, mood changes or a collapse.

52°

Non-breathing clothes such as chemical-resistance suits

During heat exhaustion, a worker may experience headaches, vomiting, dizziness, weakness, fainting, mood changes, irritability, clammy skin or darkcolored urine.

77°

Double-layer woven clothes including coveralls, jackets and sweatshirts

Understand steps for prevention: n Know the signs/symptoms of heat-related illness; monitor yourself and coworkers n Block out direct sun or other heat sources

89°

All other clothing

n Use cooling fans or air conditioning n Rest regularly

As an employer, if you have employees working under these conditions, you must: n Address your outdoor heat exposure safety program in your written accident prevention program n Training should be offered every spring before May. All training must be provided to employees and supervisors in a language the employee or supervisor understands n Encourage employees to frequently consume water or other acceptable beverages to ensure hydration

n Wear lightweight, light-colored and loosefitting clothes when possible n Address how temperatures will be monitored and by whom If you are an ROII participant and have a question about heat-related illnesses, contact ROII Safety Services Director Bob White at bobw@biaw.com or (360) 352-7800 ext. 109. If you are not an ROII participant and would like to see if you qualify, please visit ROII.com. Remember, safety has its rewards.

may 2021

On-Demand Education Classes

New partnerships offer diverse on-demand education classes by Bailee Wicks Communications Manager

The COVID pandemic brought many challenges, including the idea of being immersed in an online world in order to stay connected to one another. BIAW soon discovered the world of Zoom and GoToMeetings allowed greater accessibility to people and members who may not have been able to attend in-person classes in the past. Due to these challenges, BIAW uncovered a new need for online, on-demand education. BIAW’s education department continues to plan and adapt to the changing times in order to offer our members the best and most convenient programs possible. BIAW’s recent partnership with three organizations will now allow members to choose from a variety of courses at a discount or free of charge. Remember, each of these sites require you to create a login to start the classes. If you have any questions about our on-demand classes, contact BIAW Education and Certification Manager Hillary Vanatta at hillaryv@biaw.com or (360) 352-7800 ext. 106.

building insight

MindEdge.com MindEdge offers a wide range of business-related courses designed to help members and employees expand their skill sets and earn professional credits. The courses range from business analysis and finance to leadership and human resources management. There are 37 learning categories to choose from with certificates offered after completion. MindEdge’s professional development and certificate courses are self-paced, accessible from anywhere and available on mobile devices.

MTCopeland.com MT Copeland provides on-demand classes on construction fundamentals with real-world applications, like building cabinets or how to read blueprints. MT Copeland offers several classes, taught by skilled craftspeople, at a discount to BIAW members. They also provide supplementary downloads like quizzes, blueprints and other materials to help employees master these newly acquired skills.

Training.StrongTie.com The Simpson Strong-Tie Builder Learning Center meets the training needs of builders with curated training like Building Code Basics or Introduction to Residential Cost Estimating. On its builderspecific learning center, members may select a delivery option that best suits their needs. Self-paced, online courses provide a flexible option for busy schedules. On-demand installation videos and the Product Installer’s Guide allow attendees to view installation instructions for common products and best practices on the jobsite.

Education Program

BIAW releases education schedule by Bailee Wicks Communications Manager

In partnership with our 14 local associations, BIAW’s education department has worked tirelessly to develop and plan a new year full of accessible classes to fit your busy schedule. The online class format allows you the option to attend a class from the convenience of your jobsite or the comfort of your home. If you have any questions about classes or how to register, please contact BIAW Education and Certification Manager Hillary Vanatta at hillaryv@ biaw.com or (360) 352-7800 ext. 106.

CAPS 1: Marketing & Communicating with the Aging-in-Place Client

CAPS 2: Design Concepts for Livable Homes and Aging-in-Place

CAPS 3: Details & Solutions for Livable Homes and Aging-in-Place

WED

THURS

FRI

MAY 2021

THURS

Reviews and Testimonials Speak Volumes: How to set up a system to get reviews Online 9-10:30 a.m.

18-19 TUES - WED

THURS

Certified Erosion & Sediment Control Lead (CESCL) Online 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Online 10-11:30 a.m.

2-3

WED-THURS

The Homeowner Journey in Remodeling

In-Person at BIAW Office 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

CESCL Online 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Human Resource Management

CESCL Recertification

THURS

Online 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Online 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

7 Types of Video Content: What they are and how to use them

Train Up Your Talent Pool

TUES

CESCL Recertification Online 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

In-Person at BIAW Office 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

JUNE 2021

FRI

Understanding Leave Laws and Managing Leaves of Absence

In-Person at BIAW Office 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

WED

Online 2-3:30 p.m.

Online 9-10 a.m.

may 2021

Call for Scholarship and Grant Applications

Scholarship and grant application deadline approaches by Bailee Wicks Communications Manager

This year, the BIAW and its Education Program is offering a record-breaking $60,000 in scholarships and grant funding. These resources would not be available without the support of long-time BIAW and MBA of King and Snohomish Counties members Dick and Violette Rokes. Over the last two years, Dick and Violette have generously donated $20,000 to the scholarship program, with a focus on helping those students interested in residential construction-related careers. Thank you so much Dick and Violette for your continuous support to BIAW, the Education Program, and the home building industry. Scholarship requirements A Washington state resident Applying to attend or currently attending a Washington accredited community, vocational/technical school or university Able to demonstrate a need for funding in order to complete a program in a construction-related industry field of study Grant requirements Organizations requesting funding need to incorporate construction-related industry fields of study, including but not limited to: construction career training, continuing education, apprenticeship programs and skills assessment programs. Remember, the application deadline is May 14, 2021. Recipients of scholarships and grants typically receive on average awards between $500 and $5,000. To download a scholarship or grant application, please visit BIAW.com/program/education. If you have questions about the scholarship or grant process, please contact BIAW Education and Certification Manager Hillary Vanatta at hillaryv@biaw.com or (360) 352-7800 ext. 106.

building insight

Certified Builder

BIAW welcomes two new certified builders by Bailee Wicks Communications Manager

Wesley Nelson, Apex Building Services Central Washington Home Builders Association At Apex Building Services, love is the key component to their success. Wes and his wife Cheryl are the team who make Apex the labor of love it has been since 1996. Previously located in Seattle, they are proud to now call Lake Chelan their home since 2012. Communication, patience and education are the foundation to countless successful partnerships with their clients. They believe their focus on integrity and excellence sets them apart from the rest. Apex Building Services builds custom homes and remodeling projects such as kitchens and bathrooms, outdoor spaces and wine cellars. Nelson’s dedication to his clients and business makes him stand out above the rest and is just one reason for his desire to become a Certified Builder.

Mark Pedersen, Dansk Homes Building Industry of Whatcom County Mark Pedersen, owner of Dansk Homes, grew up in the Pacific Northwest working alongside his father, a Danish carpenter, and brothers building homes. Today, Pedersen operates his residential construction company specializing in custom homes, design and remodeling projects. Based on his deep appreciation for the Pacific Northwest, Pedersen’s work combines the influence of Nordic design principles, quality workmanship, modern building science and a strong preference for sustainable building practices. Dansk Homes is located in the beautiful Skagit Valley and offers work in San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish and Whatcom counties.

may 2021

Excellence in Remodeling Winners Spotlight

BIAW celebrates remodelers’ successes by Bailee Wicks Communications Manager

May is National Remodeling Month! BIAW celebrates by highlighting our amazing 2020 Excellence in Remodeling (EIR) award winners. The EIR awards program recognizes outstanding remodeling projects across Washington, ranging from additions and historic renovations, to kitchen and bath updates, to entire home transformations at a variety of price points. We received entries in 19 categories from around the state. While COVID restrictions prevented BIAW from celebrating last year’s winners in person, we were able to recognize their achievements with a special edition Building Insight, commemorative book, social media posts and individualized winner videos. BIAW will host the 2021 EIR Awards reception in person Monday, June 7 at Suncadia Resort in conjunction with BIAW’s summer board meeting. The event is open to all members and guests.

For more information about the 2021 EIR Awards Reception, please contact Association Services Director Brenda Kwieciak at brendak@biaw.com or (360) 352-7800 ext. 113.

Congratulations to the 2020 EIR winners! n 509 Design, LLC n BLOX Construction, Inc. n Copper Hills Construction, LLC n Current Home Technologies, LLC n Iron Brothers Construction, Inc. n John Erwin Remodeling, Inc. n Pathway Design & Construction n Phase II General Contractor, Inc. n R4 Construction n Sockeye Homes n Untamed Construction n VanderBeken Remodel

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building insight

n Vision Woodworks, Inc.

2020 EIR winning projects from: [1]Sockeye Homes [2] 509 Design, LLC [3] Irons Brothers Construction, Inc., and [4] Phase II General Contractor, Inc.

Healthcare Tip of the Month

Make the most of your prescription drug benefits by Bailee Wicks Communications Manager

With the seemingly ever-rising costs of health care, it is important to know how to get the most out of your benefits plan. For many people, prescription drug costs can be a large portion of their monthly medical costs and making sure that you receive the most effective medication at the best price can often be an overwhelming task. Fortunately, there are many helpful tools to assist consumers in making smarter decisions about their prescription medications. One of those tools, available to Regence BlueShield customers, is called MedSavvy. Prescription report cards MedSavvy is an online portal, accessed via Regence.com, created by specially—trained pharmacists. These pharmacists evaluate prescription medicines based on their efficacy, along with other factors, and assign each drug a report-card-style grade. When combined with costs, safety information and user reviews, these grades provide you and your employees all the information needed to talk to your doctor and make the best decisions. MedSavvy is also tied directly to your specific company benefit plan, so it provides employees with real-time information about costs and out-of-pocket expenditures on their prescriptions. There are also many other tools to help get the most from your prescription drug benefits, including

websites like GoodRX.com or RXSaver.com. Both provide pricing information for your medications at local pharmacies to help you determine the best place to fill your prescriptions. Mail-order pharmacy Lastly, many people find that they can save both time and money by using a mail-order pharmacy and having a three-month supply of their prescription delivered directly to their home. Check with your insurance carrier to find out if they have a partnership with a mail-order pharmacy to make sure you’re making the most of your benefits. Being aware of your options and the tools available to you is the first important step in getting the most out of your health care benefits and best utilizing your health care dollars. Questions The BIAW Health Insurance program is available to help your company find the best benefits to suit your budget and the needs of you and your employees. Visit us online at BIAWHealthTrust.com or call our office at (425) 6418093 to learn more. Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please seek the advice of a qualified medical professional before beginning or ending medical treatment or if you have questions regarding a medical condition.

may 2021

MONDAY

JUNE 7

6:30 PM Building Industry Association of Washington 300 Deschutes Way SW, Ste. 300 | Tumwater, WA 98501 (360) 352-7800 | BIAW.com |

2021

AWARDS RECEPTION Join us to celebrate exceptional remodeling projects from across Washington at the 2021 Excellence in Remodeling (EIR) Awards reception at the BIAW summer board meeting at Suncadia Resort.

Wine and Spirits Silent Auction BUILD-PAC fundraiser

FREE | OPEN TO ALL | FOOD AND DRINKS HOSTED BY BIAW REMODELERS PRESENTED BY PHASE II GENERAL CONTRACTOR, INC.

When: WHERE:

Target your inner-lumberjack at the BIAW Summer Board Meeting

June 8 | 7 PM Spike party

Summer Board Meeting | The Nelson Farm

! ia Resort d a c n u S @

Donations go to help federal candidates Cash - Check - Credit Card

DOSH INSPECTIONS DON’T BE CAUGHT UNPREPARED

MONDAY, JUNE 7 10AM - 12PM Pre-Spike Party Event $20/person | Limited spots

4:30-6:30 PM

Off-site: The Nelson Farm Free shuttle bus to event • RSVP to Brenda at the meeting • Team and individual games No experience necessary!

FREE | IN-PERSON | SUNCADIA RESORT Learn what to expect from an L&I safety inspector. This 2-hour seminar taught by ROII Safety Services Director Bob White will help to prepare you if an L&I inspector should visit your jobsite or place of business. To register, contact BIAW Education and Certification Manager Hillary Vanatta at hillaryv@biaw.com or (360) 352-7800 ext. 106.