•I GET A FREE QUOTE NOW! 425.641.8093 Come by & visit us at www.BIAWHealthTrust.com © 2021 BIAW Health Insurance Trust. All rights reserved. The BIAW Health Insurance Program is proud to offer members of the building and construction industries exclusive savings on their health insurance premiums while providing topnotch employee benefit plans. IA'N HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM
Stephen Hyer
Table of contents
Lena Anderson
to plan future leadership recruitment with 2021 BIAW President Tracy Doriot. (l-r: Nick Gilliland, Bob Kagy, Darylene Dennon, Tracy Doriot, LouAnne Neill, Chris Lockhart, Merrilee DeForest, Bob Moe, Debbi Boyd, Scott Rainwater, Linda Mosier Vaudt.)
We create economic opportunity and strong communities. BIAW champions the rights of our members and fights for affordable homeownership at all levels of government.
Al Audette
Managing Director of Operations
membersBIAWsupports
General Counsel
Compliance officers are scheduling compliance checks—do not ignore them
WHO WE ARE
BIAW adds content specialist and paralegal to the team
3
As the state’s largest trade association with over 8,000 member companies, responsible for approximately 188,000 jobs, we are the people who build, remodel and maintain homes.
ROII Director
Professional Women in Building: Three leading ladies
Greg Lane Education and Workforce Development Director
Jan Himebaugh
Jenn Kavanaugh Association Services Director
future builders with $70,000 in scholarships
Jackson Maynard
Communications Director
Celebrate Professional Women in Building Week
BIAW welcomes two new staff
Janelle Guthrie
Brenda Kwieciak
september 2022
Janelle Guthrie
Hannah Cassara
BUILDING INSIGHT EDITORIAL STAFF
Building Insight is proudly printed by:
On the Cover: September is Associate Member
BIAW MANAGEMENT
Remodelers/renovators: Prepare for compliance checks
Government Affairs Director
Digital Communications Manager
Appreciation Month! The BIAW Past 2nd Vice Presidents Council, made up entirely of associate members, holds a meeting at the BIAW headquarters
New outdoor heat exposure rules move forward
21 students across Washington receive extra help to pursue careers in residential construction
11871620
Communications Director
Visual Designer
Make your voice heard on latest draft rule
Executive Vice President
Danielle Winski
Content Specialist
To submit editorial or advertise, contact communications@biaw.com
September is not only back-to-school month, it’s NAHB Associate Member Appreciation Month (#AMAM22)!
As my family and I bid farewell to summer and enter the school year, I realize there are only about three months left in my year as your BIAW president. Wow! The time has flown by. I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to meet so many of our builders, remodelers and associates during my travels and I’m grateful for your support.
They’re also primarily small businesses, and often minority or female-owned. Supporting our associate members helps bolster our small business community and diversify our industry. Our associate members provide a built-in network of professionals we can count on to understand and support residential construction. Members do business with members.
PWB Week encourages equality, builds our future workforce
September also brings NAHB Professional Women in Building (PWB) week, Sept. 12-16. Washington is a leader when it comes to professional women in building with two very strong PWB councils— one at the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties and the other at the Olympia Master Builders. We’ve also had strong representation on the NAHB PWB Council with multiple trustees: MBAKS members Kimberley Martin and Morgan Lindberg, BIAW 2020 President Sherry Schwab and BIAW Secretary Luellen Smith, PWB 2nd Vice Chair. MBAKS members Juli Bacon and Darylene Dennon have both chaired NAHB PWB.
This month, I am excited to celebrate our associate members and women in the industry.
President
The number of women joining our industry at all ages has gradually increased, but nationwide, women only make up 11% of the construction workforce. Our workforce development efforts help encourage all women to consider careers in construction, where wage equality is significantly better than in other industries overall. Construction has the smallest gender pay gap with women in construction earning 94.3% of male workers’ wages, compared with 81% across all industries.
My team at Irons Brothers Construction is over 50% female. I’m proud to show my daughters how residential construction is a field that welcomes everyone! I hope you’ll join me this month in celebrating Associate Member Appreciation Month and Professional Women in Building Week.
Looking at our BIAW membership list, more than 5,200 of our 8,000+ members are associate members. These members support our businesses in a variety of ways. They’re mortgage brokers, real estate agents, accountants, marketing professionals, insurers and bankers to name a few. We rely on them for plumbing, electrical, tile, landscaping, painting, floors, countertops and more.
President’sinsight message
4 building
Celebrating associate members, supporting small businesses
Joseph Irons CAPS, CGP, CGR, CMG, GMR, BIAW Certified Builder
Created for “political junkies, policy nerds, and others who want to know how things really work,” The Washington Observer covers Washington state politics with the type of insider knowledge that comes from decades of building trusted sources.
Queary covers topics like politics, government and campaign finance. He’s one of the few reporters paying attention to the State Building Code Council’s end run around the Legislature to ban natural gas in new construction. Some of his coverage is free, but subscribers receive full access and regular news updates.
The Center Square
A journalist in Seattle for more than a decade, Brandi Kruse says she quit her job in corporate media “to start a platform where I could be unfiltered, unrelenting, and honest.” Kruse worked for KIRO Radio and KCPQ before launching [un]Divided.
5september 2022 New Media Sources
Former byjournalistsmainstreamgoindependentJanelleGuthrie
As mainstream newsrooms continue to cut in-depth political coverage, long-time and well-respected journalists have branched out to provide in-depth news coverage of pressing political issues on independent news sites.
Former AP Olympia correspondent and Seattle news editor Paul Queary started The Washington Observer in 2020 after two decades in the news media and eight years working for a top local political consulting firm.
[un]Divided with Brandi Kruse
The Franklin News Foundation in Chicago launched The Center Square in May 2019 to fill the need for quality statehouse and statewide news across the US. It focuses on state and local government and economic reporting.
Communications Director
Current and former community news reporters staff the Washington bureau, including Brett Davis and Raelynn Ricarte. The bureau is supported by Project 42, a non-profit organization working to “prioritize free markets, personal liberty and an individual’s right to prosper” in Washington state.
The Washington Observer
With memberships starting as low as $5/month, Kruse posts videos, podcasts and newsletters on [un]Divided several times a week. Members who pay more receive additional bonus content and opportunities to join Q&A sessions with Kruse each month.
“On [un]Divided, we encourage leaders to look past partisan politics long enough to live up to their obligations,” she says. “We… give a voice to the majority of Americans who are tired of being drowned out.”
In Olympia, the Capitol Press Corps used to fill two good-sized houses on the capitol campus with multiple reporters from the state’s mainstream newspapers and The Associated Press. Last fall, former statehouse reporters gathered to bid farewell to the infamous “press houses,” as the last ones standing moved to six small rooms inside the state Capitol Building.
Executive Vice President’s message
Associates critical to any winning team
Associates make up roughly two-thirds of our BIAW Membership. They include all the subcontractors residential contractors rely on for every job. But they’re also everything from sign shops, web designers and virtual assistants to fleet management firms, environmental specialists, insurance brokers and lawyers.
Trusted partners
Greg Lane Executive Vice President
BIAW Second Vice President Ryan Moore provides commercial insurance in the Yakima Valley and BIAW Secretary Luellen Smith owns a wine cellar and cooling business in partnership with her husband, Doug.
Associates join their local homebuilding associations because they share our belief that a healthy homebuilding industry is the foundation of a healthy state and nation. Because of this, we count on them to stand with us to support legislation to advance our industry and to oppose efforts that threaten it. Associates also generously sponsor local association events, actively recruit new members and help retain existing members so our associations remain strong.
When builders and remodelers need to find subcontractors, insurance agents or other professionals to help them finish their jobs, they know they can go straight to their local association membership directory to find trusted partners who understand our industry and know how they can contribute.
BIAW’s associates are like a great offensive line. While our builder and remodeler members often attract the spotlight, similar to a star quarterback or receiver, our associate members are hard at work in the trenches of our association providing the critical support and protection builder members and our state and local organizations need to achieve and sustain success.
While September is Associate Member Appreciation Month, I know all BIAW members appreciate our associates all year. Members do business with members. Please join me by thanking our associates for everything they do and supporting them with your business!
Understanding the home building industry
6 building insight
It’s September—and I have two things on my mind—the return of football season (Go Huskies!) and celebrating BIAW’s hardworking associate members during Associate Member Appreciation Month.
And because they’ve worked on a local committee, played together at a golf tournament or come together to raise money for local charities or scholarships, those trusted partners often become lifelong friends. Thank you associates!
Despite the demands of their jobs, both contribute generously to their local associations while also working at the state and national levels to support the homebuilding industry. That’s what our associates do.
Trigger temperatures requiring rest breaks, cool water, shade, etc. are:
n Are effective year-round vs. the current rules that are only in effect from May–September
other stakeholders have also asked the department to consider that many workers are already acclimated to hotter temperatures when they arrive on a job site due to conditions in their own homes. The acclimatization requirements could go too far in many cases.
Outdoor heat exposure rule highlights
n Also, require employers to monitor/reacclimatize any worker who is off for seven consecutive days
Concerned about these new requirements? L&I wants comments from stakeholders regarding job operations that cannot be interrupted by required work breaks due to safety, infeasibility or other BIAWreasons.and
Scan the QR code to view the current draft rule as of Aug. 31, 2022.
n Require unlimited, paid rest breaks to be provided to all employees “when they feel the need to cool down” after working at or above the trigger temperature
L&I has circulated draft language to stakeholder groups over the last few weeks. At its Aug. 31 stakeholder meeting, the department presented its updated draft document, answered additional stakeholder questions and listened to stakeholder comments.
7september 2022 Updated Heat Exposure Rules
New outdoor heat exposure rules move forward
The heat’s rising when it comes to new rules around heat exposure on the job.
n 52°F for workers wearing non-breathable apparel
While builders and others currently operate under emergency heat exposure rules through Sept. 30, 2022, Kwieciak learned L&I expects to complete the rulemaking process and implement the new permanent rules by June 2023.
n Direct employers to closely monitor new employees working at or above trigger temperatures for 14 days until they are acclimatized
BIAW lobbyist Tom Kwieciak participated in the Department of Labor & Industries’ Aug. 31 stakeholder meeting on its new Outdoor Heat Exposure rules.
The new rules:
n 80°F for all others
Your input needed
Please submit your comments via email to: carmyn.shute@lni.wa.gov Questions?
Contact BIAW Government Affairs Director Jan Himebaugh at (360) 352-7800 ext. 135 or janh@biaw.com
by Janelle Guthrie Communications Director
n Require employers to provide training for new employees who may encounter heat trigger temperatures in their jobs as well as annual training for all employees
The next deadline to submit comments regarding the latest draft rule is Sept. 26, 2022.
BIAW supports future builders with $70,000 in byscholarshipsDanielleWinski
With her father being a general contractor, Smith has grown up in the industry and helped the family business in any way she could. As she says, “I appreciate hard work and I know it makes me a better person.”
Smith has also balanced internships, is a member of multiple clubs in her school and is the president of CWU’s Women in Construction Club.
Education
Along with the student scholarships, BIAW also awarded seven local organizations with grants in varying amounts to support construction-related fields of Sincestudy.its
Digital Communications Manager
Ryan Cole
working in the construction field where he can use this interest and his degree in mechanical “Iengineering.amgrateful for the financial assistance received while I pursue my career goal of becoming a confident, valuable mechanical engineer.”
Thanks to BIAW’s scholarships and grant program, 21 students and seven construction trades programs across Washington received a little extra help to pursue careers in construction and build the future workforce. This year, BIAW provided future builders and programs with a combined total of $70,000, the association’s largest investment in grants and scholarships to date. “Building and investing in our future workforce is critical,” said BIAW President Joseph Irons. “I’m proud of the students and programs selected to receive this year’s BIAW scholarships and grants. They are the future of our industry.”
8 building insight
The scholarship and grant judges received dozens of scholarship applications and after much deliberation, they selected three students to receive the highest scholarship amount of $3,500 each. The remaining students earned between $500 to $2,500 each.
Ryan Cole is entering his final year at Washington State University earning a degree in envisionsprintafteranEngineering.MechanicalWithinterestindesignjoininga3-Dclub,Colehimself
Recipient of a $3,500 scholarship, Smith is a current student at Central dedicatedBeyondManagement.inearningUniversityWashington(CWU)adegreeConstructionbeingastudent,
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
inception, BIAW has awarded nearly $750,000 in scholarships and grants to students who have demonstrated a passion and commitment to developing a career in the home building industry and the organizations that educate them.
Maleaha Smith
n Kitsap Building Association, Bremerton $8,000 for Builder Grant program
n Laura Muntean, Vancouver University of Washington, Civil Engineering
n Ken Yi Jr., South Bend Perry Technical Institute, Electrical Technology
n Caleb Davis, Washougal
Big Bend Community College, Architecture
n Zachary Ruwaldt, Longview University of Idaho, Electrical Engineering
n Darrington High School, Darrington $5,000 for Tiny Home project for building trades students
n Cascadia Technical Academy, Vancouver $5,000 for Construction Technology program to purchase a timber mill
Southwest Washington Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee, Electrician
n Sierra Rothlisberger, Chelan Washington State University, Interior Design and Construction Management
n Emelia Boilek, Oak Harbor Western Washington University, Interior Design/ Project Management
n Nathan Comer, McCleary
n Community Boat Project, Port Hadlock $5,000 for three-month paid internship program
n Ryan Cole, Hoquiam Washington State University, Mechanical Engineering
n Fransisco Landa, Yakima Perry Technical Institute, HVAC/R
n La Conner School District, La Conner $5,000 for second-year CTE residential construction course
n Autumn West, Leavenworth Washington State University, Construction Management
Scholarship recipients
n Chimacum High School, Chimacum $5,000 to help expand career and technical education offerings to include a Residential Carpentry/Carpenter class
n Logan Kinloch, Yakima Seattle Pacific University, Business – Construction Management
n Joseph Larez, Harrah Perry Technical Institute, HVAC
n Harney Elementary, Vancouver $1,000 to build Mindfulness Outdoor Space with students
n Donovan Bishop, Elma University of Washington, Electrical Engineering
9september 2022
n Cesar Bedolla-Hurtado, East Wenatchee Washington State University, Civil Engineering
n Melanie Byrne, Sequim Peninsula College, Welding
n Jake Eko, Chehalis University of Washington, Civil Engineering
n Jamie Bekel, Chelan University of Washington, Architectural Design
n Quinn Campbell, Bellingham Bellingham Technical College, Associates in Applied Science
n Lucas Meissner, Issaquah Whitworth University, Chemical or Electrical Engineering
Grant recipients
n Maleaha Smith, Ellensburg Central Washington University, Construction Management
n James Bacon, Spokane Eastern Washington University, Construction Management
Jan. 11, 2023 | 1 PM - 3 PM
Upcoming Class Schedule
San Juan Building Association
March 9, 2023 | 1 PM - 3 PM
Good contracts make good builders
March 10, 2023 | 1 PM - 3 PM
May 9, 2023 | 1 PM - 3 PM
Jan. 12, 2023 | 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Registration for the class is free with the purchase of BIAW’s $399 Contract Subscription Service, which includes over two dozen key contracts and addenda. BIAW attorneys will lead an in-person discussion and answer all your contract questions during a designated Q&A time.
Skagit/Island Counties Builders Association
Feb. 15, 2023 | 1 PM - 3 PM
Central Washington Home Builders Association
Oct. 10, 2022 | 3 PM - 5 PM
Nov. 10, 2022 | 3 PM - 5 PM Olympia Master Builders - BIAW Conference room
Home Builders Association of Tri-Cities
BIAW’s Contract Subscription Service is available for current builder members for a one-time fee valid for two years. To further help builders craft the best contracts for their businesses, BIAW is now offering subscribers a free two-hour class at each local association.
North Peninsula Building Association
Nov. 7, 2022 | 11 AM - 1 PM
Kitsap Building Association
Save time and money while avoiding disputes with clear language that protects your business. Contact the BIAW Legal team today to sign up and find your local association’s next contracts class.
by Danielle Winski Digital Communications Manager
Buy BIAW’s Contract Subscription Service and get a free contracts class
Building Industry Association of Whatcom County
Master Builders Association of Pierce County
Lower Columbia Contractors Association
10 building insight Education
The in-person class will cover major issues and key provisions for residential construction contracts and equip builders with the best contracts for their business model. It will also provide an overview of the differences between a cost-plus vs. fixed-price contract, important addenda to include and tips on avoiding pitfalls and problems.
Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties
Jan. 10, 2023 | 1 PM - 3 PM
Jefferson County Home Builders Association
Spokane Home Builders Association
Jan. 9, 2023 | 1 PM - 3 PM
June 7, 2023 | 1 PM - 3 PM
Feb. 10, 2023 | 1 PM - 3 PM
These compliance officers are charged with ensuring builders meet Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) program requirements for contractors in state law to address lead-based paint’s health and safety risks.
• Limits liability & risk.
JOHN
n RRP Firm Certification from Washington Department of Commerce
Washington state-accredited, full-day courses at a discount. Look for the Certified Lead Renovator initial class at BIAW.com/classes.
If you receive such an email and have concerns about its legitimacy, contact the state Department of Commerce Lead-Based Paint Program to double-check at (360) 5865323 or lbpinfo@commerce.wa.gov. It is important that you show up to the meeting.
q Recordkeeping Form
• Assistance & support with customer disputes, including free mediation.
q Worker Form
Post-Renovation
SOLID
The compliance officers will invite you to an in-person compliance inspection or require you to send them records. They are asking contractors to provide the following:
n Other records required by the RRP Rule include the following:
Communications Director
sales@rwcwarranty.com800.247.1812FELBAUMExt.2633www.rwcwarranty.com
• RWC’s strong insurance backing protects your bottom line.
• Peace-of-mind protection.
BIAWcertification?offersmembers
BUILDER BENEFITS
Be prepared for compliance checks
Compliance officers email contractors to invite them to recordkeeping and reporting compliance inspections at local hotels. Some builders ignored the email because they thought the request to meet at a hotel was a scam.
n RRP Renovator Certificates for each supervisor/ employee who oversees or performs renovation, repair and painting activities for your company
Not a scam
Checklist
q Renovate Rights Pamphlet Receipt Form
11september 2022
New
byPrepareRemodelers/renovators:forcompliancechecksJanelleGuthrie
q Lead Check Test Kit Result Form
If you can’t find a class near you, contact Education and Workforce Development Director Al Audette at (360) 352-7800 ext. 105 or ala@biaw.com.
Written Insured Warranties for Home Construction COVERAGE FROM FOUNDATION TO
RAFTERS
Compliance officers from the Washington State Department of Commerce and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have been scheduling compliance checks/inspections with contractors who remodel or renovate homes built before 1978. If you are a remodeler or renovator in Washington state and they haven’t contacted you yet, be prepared.
Non-Certified
Compliance
Training
They will send the forms to you.
Need certification? Does your business need to apply for and receive RRP
• Excellent sales & marketing tool to attract more buyers.
by Janelle Guthrie Communications Director
At the local level, homebuilding associations across Washington are celebrating their associate members with special events and their own recognition. Looking for more ways to say thank you? Consider nominating your favorite associate member for an Associates of Excellence Award. Each year, NAHB recognizes associate members who distinguish themselves through outstanding service to NAHB, the industry and their communities. Visit NAHB’s website for more information: NAHB.org/nahbcommunity/awards/associate-member-awards
Past BIAW 2nd Vice President LouAnne Neill (l) and Brett Lott, HBATC state director (r), pose with HBATC’s Associates of the Year for 2020 and 2021, Jennifer Cunnington from Movement Mortgage and Teresa McCord from Banner Bank.
For more than 40 years, the National Association of Home Builders has recognized its associate members during September as part of Associate Member Appreciation Month. At the national level, associate members make up roughly two-thirds of NAHB’s membership— and that number is similar for BIAW with 5,200 associate members among our ranks.
A personal touch
Throughout the month, we’ll also be sharing social media posts recognizing and thanking our associate members across the state.
12 building insight Associate Appreciation Month
Finally, associates, watch your mailbox for a special little note of recognition from BIAW.
BIAW Associate Members: Key pieces of the building industry puzzle
We started with this Associate Member Appreciation issue of Building Insight, chock full of gratitude from our leaders and featuring several Associate Spotlights to demonstrate the breadth of talent in our associate membership. But we don’t just save it all up for September. We’ve been spotlighting an associate member each month in Building Insight as part of our Associate Spotlight series.
More opportunities to celebrate
Building Insight takeover
This month, BIAW asked local associations to join us in identifying ways to celebrate our associate members.
Social media spots
Thank you to our associate members for all you do!
“Iindustries.waslooking for an avenue to connect with the type of businesses that I enjoy helping most,” she said. “Shhh—don’t tell my other clients.”
Thryv for the building industry Montgomery joined the Master Builders Association of Pierce County last year to better connect with local businesses involved in the building and home services
include management of social media, search engine optimization (SEO), search engine marketing (SEM), websites, scheduling and appointments, invoicing and payments, text and email marketing, review generation, and customer communication from any device, all in one spot.
Thryv caters its services to businesses in the building and home services industries by customizing a company’s dashboard based on industryspecific needs. Montgomery helps remove roadblocks to ensure clients get the customer experience they deserve.
Advising for success
help business owners automate their most essential business functions so they can get back to doing what they love—running their business.
13september 2022 Associate Spotlight
With over 40 years of experience, Montgomery partners with her clients to better understand their business and ensure she recommends the right services.
Cheryl Montgomery: Helping small businesses “Thryv”
Through their business automation software, Thryv’s goal is not only to make a business easy to find and do business with but also to
In 2021, Montgomery was ranked in the top three in the nation and number one in the West for sales results with Thryv. She is an experienced business advisor with a history of working in sales, marketing strategy, digital marketing, advertising, and customer satisfaction.
“I’ve been working since I was a child and have carried that strong work ethic forward to this day,” she said. “I enjoy providing solutions and look forward to providing customers with the client experience they deserve.”
by Hannah Cassara Content Specialist
The Thryv platform displays all of a company’s many business apps on one neat platform. Their services
“Becauseseriously.
To schedule a free in-person or virtual business analysis with Montgomery and learn how Thryv could help your business, visit emp. thryv.com/site/CherylMontgomery.
Thryv is an all-in-one small business management software designed to help businesses manage jobs from start to finish. Thryv Business Advisor, Cheryl Montgomery, located in Tacoma, takes her clients’ business
my nature is to help others, I love learning about businesses and how I can help them,” Montgomery said. “My desire to help people is the foundation of my ‘why.’”
Garret Hergert, CEO of GRO in Vancouver, truly embodies his company’s mission statement to “create amazing living spaces to build better lives for our clients, team members and community.” Hergert sets himself apart not just through GRO’s services, but also by being active in government affairs and giving back to the “Garretcommunity.not only supports the BIA and its aim to protect and promote the building industry, but he also advocates for his community,” said Sarah HannonNein, Communications and Program Education Manager for the Building Industry Association of Clark County (BIACC).
The GRO Landscape Supply and Material Yard is located in Vancouver and offers a variety of plants, rock, bark and more. To shop their supply online and see all GRO offers, visit WeAreGro.com.
“GRO has been involved with the parade for more than 15 years, so it only made sense for us to step up our involvement and become the new title sponsor,” Hergert
best in home design, luxurious amenities, new technology, outdoor living, and imaginative use of space. The event runs Sept. 9–25, closed Mondays and Tuesdays. For more information about the parade, visit ClarkCountyParadeofHomes.com.
Landscape supply, nursery and more
A member of the BIACC for 14 years with service on their board of directors, Hergert has generously contributed to the success of BIACC’s Political Action Committee and scholarship fundraising efforts. He is also heavily involved with Home with Heroes, having served as president and member. The local nonprofit brings veterans together in the outdoors to honor and thank them for their service.
“We thank GRO for all they do for the building industry and our community.”
GRO-ing community and amazing outdoor spaces with Garret Hergert
“We couldn’t be prouder to have a company like GRO as our title sponsor for this year’s Parade of Homes,” Hannon-Nein said.
Hergert’s family homesteaded their farm in Ridgefield in 1912. This farm is now the location of the GRO Nursery, where they grow and sell ornamental, conifer, shade and specimen trees, as well as shrubs, ground cover and perennials to contractors and homeowners alike.
Thesaid.GRO
building insight14 Associate Spotlight
GRO Parade of Homes 2022 GRO is the new title sponsor for BIACC’s 2022 Parade of Homes. The GRO Parade of Homes takes place in Ridgefield, where GRO has a rich history. GRO will be landscaping homes involved with the parade as well as providing landscaping material and supplies for the homes.
by Hannah Cassara Content Specialist
Parade of Homes is an annual showcase of elegant custom homes in Southwest Washington, highlighting the
Larson Gross makes lives better and businesses stronger
n Building Industry Association of Whatcom County (BIAWC)
Larson Gross is a leader in educating general contractors and subcontractors about programs and opportunities to receive tax credits such as the
For almost 30 years, Larson Gross has been helping BIAW builder members across the state make their businesses better. As a public accounting and consulting firm based out of Bellingham with offices in Lynden, Burlington, Wenatchee and Yakima, they stay connected to the industry’s needs by maintaining membership and involvement in three local associations:
15september 2022 Associate Spotlight
n Skagit/Island Counties Builders Association (SICBA)
n Central Washington Home Builders Association (CWHBA)
The Employee Retention Tax Credit
Supporting the building industry
n Job costing and profitability analysis
Though the credit is no longer active in 2022, a two-year “look back” is in effect. Now is the time to see whether businesses qualify for this credit. Business owners may be eligible to receive a credit of up to $5,000 per employee in 2020 and $7,000 per qualifying quarter per employee in the first three quarters of 2021 if they meet specific requirements.
To find out more about the ERTC and if your business qualifies, don’t hesitate to contact Justin Brown at justinb@larsongross.com or Josh Turrell at josht@larsongross.com.
“We’ve helped our clients receive millions of dollars in Employee Retention Tax Credits and have advised many others that have completed the credit with their own in-house staff or through their current CPA firms,” said Jaemi Allen, marketing manager for Larson Gross. “This approach aligns with our purpose to make lives better and businesses stronger.”
While Larson Gross provides services for businesses in an array of industries, their construction team truly understands and is invested in the unique concerns of the industry—regulatory issues, finding and keeping great workers, job profitability, job bidding and cash management. The most common services they provide to businesses in the building industry are:
Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC)—a federal tax credit created to assist businesses through the COVID-19 pandemic.
n Budget and cash flow planning
Larson Gross shares their knowledge
by Danielle Winski Digital Communications Manager
They also work alongside crucial players of the industry, like lenders and bonders, while proactively educating themselves on the latest standards and trends.
n Client accounting services
n Compiled and reviewed financial statements
Professional
building insight16
Professional Women in Building: Three leading ladies
by Danielle Winski Digital Communications Manager
Women in Building
McKenzie Medeiros OMB PWB Member
This year to celebrate, BIAW is highlighting three leading ladies of the PWB who are involved at different levels: Member, local leadership and national leadership.
The OMB PWB Council is where women can grow and take their businesses to the next level.
Becoming a member of the Olympia Master Builders (OMB) PWB Council has been an eye-opening experience for McKenzie Medeiros of Family Man Remodeling. Since joining, Medeiros has been surrounded by other members who are invested in seeing women business owners and their companies succeed in the building industry.
The council has provided Medeiros an opportunity to build business relationships and friendships. Through her experience, she is learning that “where women build together, they grow together.”
Sept. 12–16 marked the annual Professional Women in Building (PWB) Week, celebrating women’s important and growing role in the building industry. Professional Women in Building councils provide support and mentorship at the local, state and national levels.
Support women builders
With more than 2,300 members nationally of various ages, religions and races, NAHB’s PWB Council encourages everyone to take a seat at the table, share their ideas, and challenge themselves.
As part of the NAHB PWB Council, members have the
Being part of the PWB Council has provided a sense of community and comradery in a male-dominated industry.
While PWB Councils provide an opportunity for women to grow professionally and personally as part of a larger group, you don’t have to be a member to show support or join.
opportunity to network with women on a national level.
get involved with the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties PWB Council after an uplifting and empowering conference she attended in 2019. Since joining, she has been pushed to grow personally and professionally, leading her down the path of becoming the 2022 MBAKS PWB chair.
Jennifer Tennyson MBAKS 2022 PWB Chair
Luellen Smith NAHB PWB Second Vice President
She wants women to know that the building industry is an excellent choice for everyone, including women. MBAKS PWB Council aims to provide resources and tools for women to break the glass ceiling—and with one of the lowest wage gaps of all industries, the building industry offers women the opportunity to do so.
Tennyson states, “Sometimes it can feel a bit challenging being the only woman, or one of a few women on a jobsite, and PWB is a great resource—not only for comradery but also for empowering and educating our members.”
Anyone can inspire and encourage tradeswomen and help build the next generation of skilled workers. The national PWB Council directory includes 116 men and women from all across ToWashington.learnmore about the PWB Councils, contact Digital Communications Manager Danielle Winski at (360) 352-7800 ext 143 or daniellew@BIAW.com
“Ilevel.am
As more women begin their careers in the industry, PWB councils offer a place to turn for networking, professional development and educational events at a national, state and local
Luellen Smith is a national leader in the homebuilding industry. As the Second Vice President of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) PWB Council, she understands the importance of supporting women in the trades.
As a teen, Jennifer Tennyson’s father tried to convince her not to go into the building industry because it was “no place for a lady,” even though he knew it was inevitable. Now, as a business owner, Tennyson is a champion for women in the building Tennysonindustry.wasinspired to
very proud of how our members support the greater good of our industry and each other,” Smith states.
17september 2022
Thank you to everyone who came out! We appreciate everyone who took the time to chat with us about our unmatched in-house services, and we look forward to next year’s golf tournament season.
The golf tournament season has come to a close, but the summer fun isn’t over yet. As the scorching summer heat slowly starts to cool down, one thing is still as hot as ever—safety and getting refunds on your workers’ compensation insurance premiums. You heard it here first: ROII participants earn better
[5] ROII Enrollment Manager Jessica Bass (l) with ROII Field Representative Jesse Balbin (right) present golfers from Adair Homes, ROII participants since 2011, and [6] Weidner Property Management, ROII participants since 2008, with ROII swag during the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties annual golf tournament.
[7] Anderson Homes, ROII participants for nearly 20 years, proudly show off their new ROII hoodies as ROII Enrollment Manager Jessica Bass stands by (l) at the NPBA golf tournament.
by Leah Jaber ROII Marketing Manager
1
[8] ROII Marketing Manager Leah Jaber and ROII Enrollment Manager Jessica Bass arrived in style at the NPBA golf tournament. 2
[1] Golfers representing Earth Tech Construction and [2] golf team Olympic Electric happily show off their haul of ROII swag at the ROII-sponsored tee box at the North Peninsula Building Association (NPBA) golf tournament.
Golf tournament season comes to a close
[3] BIAW Education Manager Andy Arrants (l) and golfers representing Hartnagel Building Supply, ROII participants since 1994, and [4] Strait Floors drop by the ROII tent to pick up ROII gear at the NPBA golf tournament.
18 building insight ROII
Inrefunds.fact,for the 2018-19 plan year, ROII participants earned an average refund of 53%, and over half of our participants got 56% back on their L&I premiums. That’s some serious cash. If you’d like to see how much you could have earned if you were enrolled in ROII, visit roii.com.
19september 2022 3 4 5 6 7 8
Hannah Cassara Content Specialist Paige Jaramillo Paralegal
A current student at Arizona State University and a paralegal here at the BIAW, Paige Jaramillo brings years of managerial and legal experience to our exceptional team. Prior to joining our organization, she served as a corporate legal assistant at Landerholm P.S., assisting the business department with mergers and acquisitions, entity formations, and commercial transactions and contracts.
Cassara is a graduate of Washington State University with a degree in Agricultural Communications and a minor in Public Relations. She has spent her career working with non-profit membership associations.
“I’ve spent most of my legal career thus far working in corporate law, and while I loved my work, I was in search of a new opportunity that was mission-driven and would offer me a sense of fulfillment,” Jaramillo said. “BIAW’s active involvement in the community and commitment to advocacy made it the perfect place to call home, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision.”
BIAW welcomes two new staff members
Most of her time is spent studying and chasing around her kids (“having ‘two under two’ is not for the weak!” Jaramillo affirms), but she’ll never say no to Taco Tuesday and a good margarita. When she does have free time, you can find her cheering for the Seahawks and Mariners and experimenting with recipes that occasionally come out halfway decent.
by Danielle Winski Digital Communications Manager
“I am thrilled to join the BIAW team,” Cassara said. “I look forward to meeting members, telling their stories and being a part of such an exciting and important industry.”
Cassara grew up in Port Orchard, and after living in Idaho following college, she moved back to Western Washington and now resides in Winlock with her husband and daughter. She enjoys horseback riding, snowboarding, gardening and working on home improvement projects in her spare time.
Hannah Cassara joined the BIAW communications team in late August and brings over a decade of professional experience in communications and magazine production. As a content specialist for BIAW, editing and writing for Building Insight will be one of her primary responsibilities.
building insight20 New Staff
Open communication
Don’t underestimate “minor” injuries
While you should never discourage employees from seeking medical treatment or filing workers’ comps claims, some simple first aid treatment on the jobsite can help avoid a trip to a physician. Left untreated, many minor cuts, bug bites and abrasions can become infected, resulting in swelling or discoloration. Bee stings, in particular, can become costly claims if employees have an allergic reaction that can cause substantial complications.
Your employees don’t have to tell you they have medical conditions that could result in an industrial injury. Ask employees if they are allergic to bee stings or insect bites, and ensure they keep proper medical treatment on hand. Often specific medicines need to be available nearby. Having these basic conversations shows you care and also helps protect both you and your employee.
Make sure your first aid kits are conveniently located. Ensure all employees know where they are and how to use them. Kits should include bandages, disinfectant and allergy medicine, clearly marked for easy access. Always have first aid kits onsite where your people are working so they have easy access to them in emergency situations. Failure here may seriously cost you later.
Remember: A little preparation and forethought can go a long way in protecting your employees and saving your company money and downtime.
Last year, the ROII program handled a large number of claims related to relatively minor injuries, bug bites or bee stings that turned into avoidable workers’ comp claims. While we resolved most as medical only claims so they didn’t hurt the employer’s experience rating or workers’ comp rates, they still cost the ROII retro pool, affected company performance ratings and reduced ROII refunds. Not to mention the significant downtime and lost productivity when employees have to leave the job to seek medical services and then file workers’ comp claims.
by Bob White ROII Safety Services Director
21september 2022 ROII Safety Services
ROII participants receive weekly safety topic emails as a participation benefit. To join the list, reach out to Bob White at (360) 352-7800 ext. 109 or bobw@biaw.com
Want more safety ideas?
“Bee” smart about bee stings
If you’re not an ROII partipant and want to find out more about our benefits, go to roii.com
Require employees to administer first aid treatment, even for minor wounds and bites, and direct them to report injuries to supervisors. Also, assign someone to restock the first aid kit to ensure you always have what you need.
Anyone who has ever stumbled onto a bee’s nest on a jobsite knows bee stings can really hurt. But when it comes to your employees, they can also hurt your bottom line.
Quick access to first aid
To learn more about the BIAW Health Insurance Program EAP and other health benefits, visit BIAWHealthTrust.com today.
The BIAW Health Insurance Program partners with First Choice Health to provide an EAP solution, included with all BIAW medical plans. The services are entirely confidential for employees and available over the phone or online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Disclaimer: This information is not 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. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Month—a month dedicated to raising awareness and de-stigmatizing this often taboo topic that can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. As an employer, supporting your employees physically, mentally and emotionally can be challenging while also running your business. An employer-sponsored Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can support your employees throughout various life strains.
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness
BIAW’s Health Insurance Program adds new benefit
EAPs offer various services designed to help employees and their families in their personal lives. Not only does this benefit help your employees feel appreciated and supported, but it can also make them more productive at work by relieving stress and distractions outside of work.
The BIAW EAP also offers consultation services for legal and financial issues, childcare and eldercare, ID theft, homeownership and more.
As so many people face challenges navigating life’s twists and turns, an Employee Assistance Program greatly enhances your employee benefits package, supporting your employees when they need it most.
22 building insight Healthcare Corner
EAP services include support for personal issues such as anxiety and depression, relationship/ family counseling, crisis support, alcohol and drug problems, grief and loss, work conflict and domestic violence.
Services to help employees and their families
by Brittany Lockwood Marketing Specialist, Capital Benefits Service
Enhancement to your benefits package
As a member of our program, when you cover all of your homes with 2-10 HBW’s industry-leading structural warranty, you may be eligible for discounts on your General Liability premium.
You
and
Our Strategic Insurance Alliances provide sub coverage making 2-10 HBW your one-stop shop for industry-leading protection.
From structural protection and General Liability partnerships to our Dispute Avoidance and Mitigation program, we take risk management responsibilities off your shoulders so you can focus on building quality homes.
*Disclaimer: The above features are representative of the types of insurance coverages offered, which may vary with each individual policy. Actual coverages, and terms and conditions will be set forth in the insurance policy. Coverage is not available in all states. Not all businesses will qualify for coverage. Contact your licensed insurance agent for more details.
GENERAL LIABILITY BENEFITS COME STANDARD
your 2-10 HBW Builder membership provides through our Strategic Insurance Alliances in the United States has throughcoveragea2-10 HBW structural warranty
Structural coverage from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty (2-10 HBW) and General Liability coverage go hand in hand. Now, you can leverage your 2-10 HBW Builder Membership to get unmatched General Liability benefits. build it, industry-leading structural warranty coverage exclusive access to our Strategic Insurance Alliances. us today at 877.777.1344
4. Comprehensive Risk Management Under One Roof
we’ll back you up with
3. Inclusive Subcontractor Coverage
23september 2022 2 3 4
5 1BENEFITSKEYIN7HOMES
FOR 2-10 HBW BUILDER MEMBERS
5. Unparalleled Industry Experience
To learn more and access these benefits, contact
Copyright ©2021 Home Buyers Warranty Corporation. All rights reserved.
1. General Liability Products
We combine over 40 years of structural warranty experience with the General Liability expertise of our Alliances to give you an unparalleled protection plan for your business.
2. General Liability Premium Discounts
Your builder membership gives you access to General Liability products through our network of General Liability providers. That makes finding the right General Liability insurance for your situation much easier.
Building Industry Association of Washington 300 Deschutes Way SW, Ste. 300 | Tumwater, WA 98501 (360)Prepared352-7800 | BIAW.com |bylocalattorneys familiar with the Washington building industry’s unique needs, these contracts will be regularly updated with the latest legal mandates and case law so your contracts are always up to date. ONLY $ 399(plus tax) for a subscription through March 2024 BIAW.com/legal Receive a FREE training class with subscription! BIAW SUBSCRIPTIONCONTRACTSERVICE SAVE THE DATE FALLMEETINGBOARD Nov. 16-18, 2022 Hilton Vancouver, WA CTE: What is it and Why Should I Care? Thursday | Nov. 17 | 8-10:45AM FREE and Open to All Annual Meeting of the Membership + Luncheon Thursday | Nov. 17 | 11:30AM $45/person and Open to All Election of BIAW and NAHB Officers in conjunction with the luncheon Future Leadership Social hosted by the Past President’s Council Thursday | Nov. 17 | 5-6 PM | Free and Open to All Installation and Awards Gala Event theme: Bohemian Thursday | Nov. 17 | 7 PM | $70/person Open to All | Attire: Business Classy Associate Appreciation Awards presented by the Associate Advisory Council in conjunction with the board of directors meeting Friday | Nov. 18 | 9-11:30 AM Find more information at BIAW.com Don’t Miss These Events!
