At Home in Berks October 2015

Contents 2015 HBA Berks Board of Directors

Features:

Angles:

6

23 CFPB Announces New

OFFICERS: President Edward F. Anewalt IV, CLP Anewalt’s Landscape Contracting (Bernville)

First Vice President James E. Gavin, Esquire Masano Bradley Attorneys at Law (Wyomissing)

Secretary/Treasurer Evan L. Hand, III National Penn Bank (Allentown)

Immediate Past President

8

David Hallowell

Bryan Moll B & G Glass (Reading)

Tom Watts Middle Creek Roofing, LLC (Newmanstown)

ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS: Sherrie Hallowell Peter Hart Jason Jenkins

The steps you can take to save on your energy bill this winter.

Must have items for the home.

Because you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Your Employee Hiring Strategy Tips to attract the right person for the job.

16 Home Improvement

Contractor Registration It’s the Law!

Have You Renewed Your Home Improvement Registration?

20 Advocacy in the Building Industry is Advocacy for Public Safety

Tompkins VIST Bank (Wyomissing)

Kohl Building Products (Reading)

24 Energy Saving Tips

26 Are Your Heating

Eric Keller Berks Fire Water Restorations, Inc. (Reading)

New Home Trends for Millennials

Set for October 3, 2015.

12 Five Ways to Improve

Brad Kehres L A Kehres Building & Remodeling (Leesport)

The questions you should be asking before you hire.

Lending Rules

Can Make a Good First Impression with Phone Etiquette

Dolan Construction Inc. (Reading)

Heffleger Kitchen Center (Reading)

What to Look For in a Home Inspector When Buying a New Home

10 How Contractors

Patrick J. Dolan, AIA, LEED AP

BUILDER/REMODELER DIRECTORS:

OCTOBER 2015

Changes to provide for safer construction in a more cost effective manner.

Costs Flying Out the Window?

Learn the facts to being a pro at window shopping for energy efficiency.

Departments: 4

From the President HBA of Berks County President Edward Anewalt.

28 Membership Pages

New and returning members, member to member discount programs, and an overview of all Association-related events for October 2015–January 2016.

Bursich Associates, Inc. (Pottstown)

HBA STAFF:

For Advertising Opportunities: call 610.685.0914 Ext. 1 Read At Home In Berks Magazine Online at HBAberks.org

Janet Campis

Executive Officer & At Home in Berks Editor-in-Chief

Barbara M. Bohrman Member & Event Coordinator

The written and visual contents of this magazine are protected by copyright. Reproduction of print or digital articles without written permission from Hoffmann Publishing Group, Inc., and/or the Home Builders Association of Berks County is forbidden. The placement of paid advertisements does not imply endorsement by HBA of Berks County.

Publisher: Hoffmann Publishing Group, Inc. 610.685.0914 2921 Windmill Road, Suite 4, Sinking Spring, PA 19608

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

From the President

“The mighty oak was once a little nut that stood its ground.”

each member of the USA Olympic Hockey Team not per se because the players were the absolute best players, but more so because the players were the best choice for the position. The ones chosen could play together as a team rather than be fixated on the player’s individual talent. Similarly, Anewalt’s operates as a team, each member looking out for everyone else, from the mow crew looking at the overall inspection of the property, not just the turf, to the office members carefully connecting the clients wants and needs to our crew members to ensure the project is completed accurately.

PERSISTENCE

Just A Little Nut

R

unning a business! What a multi-faceted theme for this edition of At Home in Berks. Let me try to correlate ‘running a business’ to two things near and dear to my heart: the green industry and the 1980 USA Olympic Hockey Team.

Perhaps you’re questioning how running a business could relate to such unrelated topics. Read on for more!

Just A Little Nut

Starting with the green industry, there is a saying: “The mighty oak was once a little nut that stood its ground.”

This simple saying is the basis for getting a business off the ground, whether the little nut represents an idea, a product, a service, a dream. Business owners start with something small but grand that is sown. With a bit of luck, it germinates. Then it has to be cared for, pruned, fertilized, and fed. Even after all of that, there is still no guarantee 4

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015

Again, I must reference Coach Herb Brooks of the USA Olympic Hockey Team for his persistence! If you haven’t yet watched the move Miracle on Ice, I give you homework! It’s a must-watch for every business owner. In the movie, there is a pivotal scene in which the benched team members are looking at hot girls in the bleachers rather than paying attention to the game at hand. After disgracefully losing the game, Coach Brooks keeps the team on the ice to WORK since they didn’t want to work during the game. Herb calls that the nut will grow into a mighty oak. out, “Again and again and again,” for hours Nevertheless, we business owners believe while the team reaches a state of delirium. that it’s worth the investment to plant that This dramatic post game practice becomes little nut and to do our best to ensure it the unifying moment for the team when grows into a mighty oak. one of the players screams out his name and says he plays for TEAM USA rather TEAM than boasting of the specific university he Let me jump ahead to what the little came from. By this simple statement, the nut needs as it takes hold; a lot of good players start to realize that they can’t boast people around it to ensure the timing of of their individual accomplishments if they being properly watered, fed, fertilized and want to be a team. Far beyond this scene, pruned. My wife, Lori, and I have chosen Coach Brooks is persistent in his message to surround ourselves both personally and to his team—to beat the Soviets and to within the business with good solid peo- practice again and again and again until ple, people who can work together as a they become the best! team, each adding his or her own contriBe relieved that I do not have a whistle bution. It’s nearly impossible to strengthen a company if the team members are weak that I blow at Anewalt’s and scream “Again or disconnected. and again and again!” Nonetheless, we do practice over and over until we get it right.

At Anewalt’s, we have repetitively used This may mean reinstalling a patio or a the example of the 1980 USA Olympic wall or redoing a job that does not have Hockey Team to share this principle with Anewalt’s stamp of approval. Our perour Anewalt’s team members. The team’s sistence has trained our team to reach for head coach, Herb Brooks, hand selected the highest of standards and to never give up.

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

RISK TAKING

No one ever thought that TEAM USA would have been capable of beating the Soviet Union in 1980. The Soviets boasted of a group of players that had worked together on the ice for years. Their strategies were tried and true. They were champions on the ice. Herb dared to take them on.

He was the ultimate risk taker. The same principle holds true for running a business.

During my tenure as owner, I took my fair share of risks; some worked out well and some not. I took ventures that didn’t turn out so well and learned from them.

This helped me build a stronger and wiser company. Had I not taken risks, there would be no Anewalt’s. As a risk taker, you have to say to yourself, I can make it even if it doesn’t work out. In that case, you learn from the failure and keep plugging along.

Herb Brook’s risk taking attitude created a miracle on ice when the USA Olympic

Team beat the Soviets to everyone’s surForgive me for ending this article abruptly. prise. I still get motivated when I watch Correlating Anewalt’s to Miracle on Ice has Miracle on Ice. It reinforces my desire to stirred in me the strong desire to watch the intentionally run my business as best as movie AGAIN and AGAIN and AGAIN. my team and I can.

I encourage all readers to risk planting their little nut, to nourish it often along the way with just the right amount of sunlight, water and fertilizer. Be persistent and surround yourself with good people. Dare to take that risk!

Best,

Edward F. Anewalt IV, CLP

Anewalt’s Landscape Contracting

OCTOBER 2015 AT HOME IN BERKs

5

features

What to Look For in a Home Inspector When Buying a New Home David Wallace

M

oving into a home should be a time of excitement, a time of planning, and a time of joy.

It should not be a time of anxiousness, a time of planning emergency repairs, or a time of buyer’s remorse.

Yet for some homebuyers—first time and veterans alike—what should be a dream come true turns into a nightmare.

There are a few things that you, the homebuyer, can do to prevent the nightmare from ever happening in the first place. In addition, there are laws in place for your protection, too—because, while there are many reputable agents and inspectors out there, as in any business, there are also those who are interested only in increasing their bottom line at your expense.

To start with, hire a reputable, licensed, independent home inspector. Here is what you should look for:

6

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015

1. Is the inspector a member of a national organization? For

instance, ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors), http://www.homeinspector.org/ and NAHI (the National Association of Home Inspectors), http://www.nahi.org/ home-inspector-search/ or IHINA (Independent Home Inspectors of North America), http://www.independentinspectors.org/ or InterNACHI (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors). ASHI and NAHI are generally recognized as the predominant sources of home inspectors.

2. Is the inspector a member of the Better Business Bureau? Have

there been any unsatisfied complaints filed about the inspector?

3. Ensure that your inspector carries “errors and omissions” insurance, and ensure that there is a clause in your contract calling for binding arbitration. Essentially, this guarantees that if the inspector misses something, you can hold him or her liable for it, and the inspector’s insurance will pay to have the problem fixed—without the expense of litigation.

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

4. Check out your inspector’s credentials. That can include

asking for references, double-checking the inspector’s qualifications, and finding out how long the inspector has been in business. If an inspector is not willing to share that information, find another.

5. Find the inspector yourself. Do not rely on the real estate

agent (or homeowner) to recommend one—and do not let the agent tell you whom you can—or cannot—hire. According to the PA Home Inspection Law, it is illegal for the inspector to accept or deliver any type of “kickback” to the real estate agent or seller. It is also illegal for the inspector to be an employee of the agent or seller:

A home inspector, the employer of a home inspector, or any business or person that controls or has a financial interest in the employer of a home inspector, may not: (1) Perform or offer to perform for an additional fee repairs to a structure for which the home inspector or the employer of the home inspector prepared a home inspection report within the preceding 12 months. (2) Inspect for a fee any property in which the home inspector or the employer of the home inspector has any financial interest or any interest in the transfer of the property, unless the financial interest is disclosed in writing to the buyer before the home inspection is performed and the buyer acknowledges this disclosure in writing. (3) Offer or deliver any compensation or reward to the seller of the inspected property or to an agent for either or both the seller and the buyer for the referral of any business to the home inspector or the employer of the home inspector. (4) Accept an engagement to perform a home inspection or to prepare a home inspection report in which the employment itself or the fee payable for the inspection is contingent upon the conclusions of the report, pre-established or prescribed findings or the closing of the transaction.

The following information, from the IHINA website, further clarifies the law: http://www.independentinspectors.org/conflictofinterest.html.

If a real estate agent tells you that you cannot use an inspector of your choosing, or insists that you use one of their “recommended” or “approved” inspectors, you should contact your attorney.

(You should also wonder why they do not want you using an independent inspector of your choosing.) A real estate broker or sales agent who tries to get you to use an inspector of the agent’s choice is trying to control the home inspector selection process.

Prospective homebuyers must keep in mind that real estate agents who receive a commission from the property seller, are working in the best interest of their client (the seller.)

Next time, we will talk about the types of things a home inspector should look for—and what you, as a homebuyer, should be aware of when having a home inspected.

This is the first part of a multi-part article, stay tuned for more.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: David Wallace is the President of East Penn Energy Solutions.

To reach David, email: David@epenergysolutions.com.

OCTOBER 2015 AT HOME IN BERKs

7

features

– F OR M I L L E NNI AL S – HBA Staff

A

s Millennials begin to enter the home buying market in larger numbers, homes will get a little smaller, laundry rooms will be essential, and home technology increasingly prevalent, said panelists during an International Builders’ Show press conference on home trends and Millennials’ home preferences.

The results of two surveys were revealed: one asking homebuilders what features they are most likely to include in a typical new home this year and one asking Millennials what features are most likely to affect their home buying decisions.

Of the Top 10 features mentioned by homebuilders, four have to do with energy efficiency: Low-E windows, Energy Star-rated appliances, windows, and programmable thermostats. The top features: master bedroom walk-in closets and a separate laundry room.

When NAHB asked Millennials what features fill their “most-wanted” shopping list, a separate laundry room was clearly on top, with 55% responding that they just would not buy a new home that did not have one.

Storage is also important, with linen closets, a walk-in pantry and garage storage making the Top 10—along with Energy Star certifications. In fact, this group is willing to pay 2–3% more for energy efficiency as long as they can see a return on their power bills.

If they can’t quite afford that first home, respondents said they’d be happy to sacrifice extra finished space or drive a little farther to work, shops and schools, but are unwilling to compromise with less expensive materials.

A whopping 75% of this generation wants to live in single-family homes and 66% Least likely features include high-end prefer to live in the suburbs. Only 10% say outdoor kitchens with plumbing, and appli- they want to stay in the central city. ances and two-story foyers and family rooms.

8

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015

Panelist Jill Waage, editorial director for home content at Better Homes and Gardens, discussed Millennials’ emphasis on the importance of outdoor living and that generation’s seamless use of technology, and how those two trends play into their home buying and home renovation decisions.

Because they generally don’t have as much ready cash or free time as older home owners, Millennials seek less expensive, low-maintenance choices like a brightly painted front door, strings of garden lights and landscaping that needs less watering and mowing, like succulent plants and larger patios.

They’re also very comfortable with their smartphones and tablets, and increasingly seek ways to control their heating and air-conditioning and security and lighting as well as electronics like televisions and sound systems from their phones. “They want to use their brains for other things, not for remembering whether they adjusted the heat or closed the garage door,” Waage said.

features

How Contractors Can Make a Good First Impression with Phone Etiquette

HBA Staff

A

contractor’s first-impression efforts must be positive, encouraging the prospect to feel satisfied about his or her first experience with your company.

There is an old expression that says, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” This is especially true when trying to develop new customer growth.

Consider the following questions:

• What initial impressions are made on potential customers when they are first introduced to your company?

• More importantly, what impression do you want potential customers to have?

First Impressions That Last a Lifetime

With an abundance of options available to most customers, it is imperative that you and your company give the customer every reason to like you at first glance or first communication. Telephone etiquette is a key area where contractors can focus to make a good first impression.

treated by a business. More specifically, a p.m. and 5:30 p.m. and see what happens. significant reason included the negative tone Why these times? Because that’s when a and apathetic attitude that was projected contractor’s telephone is the hottest and over the telephone. Telephone etiquette is when people answering the phone have crucial to a small and growing business— the least amount of time. It is critical that heck, it is crucial to any size company. each receiving call be answered in a similar and positive fashion: Starting with yourself, everyone in your company needs to understand how to answer the telephone, how to take a message, Good morning how to respond to customer questions and how to do all of that without leaving the (or afternoon), this is customer feeling irritated, stupid or with Friendly Excavation unanswered questions. We might never get a “second chance” if a customer has a lousy & Supply; How experience during that first phone call.

So let’s lay out a few guidelines for your company to use when answering the telephone. Many of the guidelines also work when initiating calls to prospects or customers.

may I help you?”

Tip: Encourage your people to smile when answering the telephone. A training Company Name + “How tip is to set a mirror in front of an employee In a study of why customers defect from May I Help You?” to let her view her facial expressions when doing business with their current contractor, Sounds too simple, but try calling any on the telephone. Sound crazy? Try it yourmore than 40% of the responding customers contractor you know, even your own office, self and see if it doesn’t help change your blamed their defection on how they were between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. or 3:30 approach and attitude.

A Good First Impression Costs Nothing, But Pays Off Big

10

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Take Notes & Briefly Summarize Comments

Anyone answering the phone should keep a pen and message pad handy so that notes about the customer call can be immediately taken. In my own consulting efforts, I find contractors missing important facts about customer calls because someone neglected to record the details.

If you have a receptionist you should have fewer problems with this concern, but be sure that the receptionist is trained in these same first impression techniques.

However, many small contractors and construction dealers don’t have a designated telephone receptionist. In many companies, the person who first answers the telephone might also be the bookkeeper, job scheduler, even the chief bottle washer. Everyone, including secretaries, front line employees, supervisors, foreman and yourself must realize the importance of taking accurate notes. They also should make it a point to periodically summarize for the customer what the customer is saying. This not only helps make sure you’re on the same page as the customer but it lets the customer know you’re engaged in the call.

Tip: Instruct your employees to record names, dates, addresses, key questions asked or problems mentioned, etc., while speaking with the customer. It is not important to record every word spoken, only key points.

For some in-house training try reading a one-page article from a trade magazine and have your employees take notes on your reading. Compare the notes they take to the actual facts read from the article.

Close with “Thank You for Calling!”

First-class customer service begins by sharing appreciation with a customer for having chosen your company to do business with. This appreciation should start on the very first telephone call.

Once the reason for the telephone call is completed, it is wise to always end your call with a sincere, “Thank you, Mr. Smith, for calling. Have a nice day.” While this is simple, it does leave the conversation on a positive note.

Remember, your first-impression efforts must be positive, encouraging the prospect to feel satisfied about his or her first experience with your company. Because many first time telephone calls will be handled by your company’s office personnel it is crucial that these people are properly trained on professional telephone etiquette and held accountable to creating a great first impression.

While customers sometimes initiate calls when they are angry or frustrated, it

is always in the contractor’s best interest to stay calm and collected when on the telephone. A relaxed but attentive and responsive voice over the telephone is often rewarded with both a welcome sigh of relief by the customer and additional work for the contractor. Remember, empower your telephone skills to make a first impression that begins a long and successful relationship with a customer!

OCTOBER 2015 AT HOME IN BERKs

11

features

Five Ways to Improve Your

Employee Hiring Strategy

Jeff Winke—CEG Correspondent

A

ttracting good, smart employees is a challenge. In a way, the odds are against finding the best, because stereotypes persist.

Ask any high school guidance counselor why they don’t recommend a career in construction to their top students and the reasons fall short of today’s technologically advanced, entrepreneurial, software-saturated contractor. The same thing is true

with the average person on the street. Ask agement service based in Des Moines, Iowa, them to describe what a construction con- that serves the construction market. tractor is like and the response will more likely resemble the Neanderthal exhibit at To do this means looking the museum.

“

at the recruitment methods “Hiring good employees today means that have been used and breaking through stereotypes or sneaking refreshing some, reinventing around them to reach the good candidates you need,” said Ann Torry, vice president of others, and tossing out marketing of BirdDogHR, a talent man- the ineffectual ones.”

Here are five ideas to consider:

3.

Use local employment job boards & Web sites: Most medium

1.

Create excitement in your ad: “Do you

like working outside, thinking on your feet, and operating a piece of advanced technology?” sounds more exciting than “Wanted: bulldozer operator.” Shift the emphasis from a standard job description to the skills, interests and passion needed in the business.

12

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015

2. Use social media:

Post your employee needs on Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+, Plaxo and Twitter. If you are hoping to hire anyone under the age of 40, social media will get you there faster.

to large cities will have a commercial jobs/ positions open site that connects job seekers with potential employers.

Do not ignore Craigslist, which is localized to cities all over the United States (and much of the world for that matter).

The only bugaboo with Craigslist is they currently don’t have a category (yet!) for Construction, so construction openings are found under Architect/ Engineer or General Labor. Post your ad on Monster, Workhands, Big Shoes and any other sites you can find.

Continued on page 14

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

OCTOBER 2015 AT HOME IN BERKs

13

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

4.

Network with career counselors, civic groups, and social service agencies: Good, smart employees can come from anywhere, but it may require some educating of your sources. To do this, create a simple recruitment kit with these three elements: (1) Who We Are, (2) What We Do, and (3) What Kind of Employees We Need. This should be a small pdf that can be emailed to contacts after you talk to them or meet with them. Make a point to reach out to someone new weekly who can be added to your database. Call and introduce yourself to a high school guidance counselor one week, the president of the local chamber of commerce the next week,

14

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015

the head of the Hispanic or African-American or Asian chamber of commerce the next week and continue reaching out to the community opinion leaders, elected officials, and the movers and shakers in your locale. The goal is build a referral network to which you

can send out job notices when they arise along with a note that says: “Make sure that any candidate you send me uses your name as the referral—so I know that I’m receiving a high-quality candidate.” That kind of note puts them on notice that who they refer will reflect on them.

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

5. Use technology to your advantage:

Save time by carefully screening the pile of resumes and/ or applications you receive. Every rejected candidate deserves a sincere and clear email that says they will not be hired but thanks them for their interest. Include a brief “elevator-speechlength” description of the company. You want to leave a positive impression of the company. Today’s rejected candidate could be tomorrow’s customer, influencer or employee.

Follow up the email with a mailed letter that says the same thing. A mailed letter is classy and unexpected.

It reaches them through a different channel and is designed to leave them

with a positive sense of the company. If this sounds like a grueling task, there is HR software available that can help automate these processes with templates and a few mouse clicks and document the communication with applicants.

With select candidates, conduct a Skype or FaceTime interview for initial screening. It saves time and provides a visual impression of the candidates. These digital communication services are easy to use and can help confirm or screen out candidates before bringing them in for a faceto-face interview. The very best candidates deserve an in-person interview.

“It’s clear that in today’s market recruiting the best employees requires smart thinking and effort on the part of the hiring construction contractor,” said Torry. “Investing in value, will yield valuable results.”

OCTOBER 2015 AT HOME IN BERKs

15

features

Home Improvement Contractor Registration

IT’S THE LAW! HBA Staff

actors!

Calling All Contr

Your Home Have You Renewed tration?

Improvement Regis

T

he Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA) has been in effect since July 1, 2009. It requires all home improvement contractors who work in the state of Pennsylvania to be registered with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.

The HBA of Berks County wants to ensure that all of our members have access to the resources they need to comply with this law. As a home improvement contractor, you are expected to register every 2 years and the cost is $50. Here are answers to frequently asked questions from the Attorney General:

16

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015

Who Must Register?

• Anyone who owns or operates a home improvement business or who offers, performs, or agrees to perform home improvements in Pennsylvania must register with the Office of Attorney General, unless they fall into two exceptions: small contractors (less than $5,000 of work in a calendar year), and large retailers (net worth of more than $50 million). All contractors, including self-employed contractors and sole proprietorships, subcontractors

and independent contractors, and corporations, partnerships and all other types of business entities must be registered, unless they fall into the two exemptions above.

• Contractors are defined as: Any person who owns and operates a home improvement business or who undertakes, offers to undertake, or agrees to perform any home improvement. The term includes a subcontractor or independent contractor who has contracted with a home improvement retailer, regardless of the retailer’s net worth, to provide home improvement services to the retailer’s customers.

• Contractors who exclusively build new homes, commercial builders, and builders who only work on local, state and federal government construction projects are excluded from the law.

What Information is

Required to Register?

The law requires contractors to submit a completed application, which includes the following information:

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

• Contact and identifying information for the applicant (including information on any prior home improvement businesses operated by the applicant) • For corporations and business entities—information on partners, officers, managers and other parties with an interest in the business • Information on other contractor licenses and registrations held by the applicant • A description of the applicant’s business • Background disclosures, including information on prior bankruptcies and criminal pleas or convictions

• Insurance policy information showing at least $50,000 of personal injury liability coverage and $50,000 of property damage coverage • A signed and dated certification by the applicant • A non-refundable application fee of $50, payable to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Do Contractors Need to Display Their Registration # on Their Vehicles?

Your registration number must be included in any advertisements, contracts, estimates and proposals that you use in

Pennsylvania. If your vehicle includes an advertisement of your business, then it must display your HIC Registration number.

Your number display must include the abbreviation “PA” and the number assigned to you (example: PA123456). Though the law does not dictate where your number must appear in contracts or advertisements, it must be clearly displayed so the consumer can easily read it.

What Needs to be in Contracts for Home Improvements?

Every contract for home improvements needs to be written, legible and signed by the consumer and the contractor (or their representatives). Contracts must also Continued on page 18

OCTOBER 2015 AT HOME IN BERKs

17

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

contain important provisions, including the total price of the project; estimated start and completion dates; and a description of the work.

In October 2014, HICPA was amended to allow “time and materials” contract usage by contractors, provided the contractor: (1) informs the consumer in writing that the time and materials contract will not exceed 10% above an initial cost estimate agreed by the homeowner; and (2) informs the consumer in writing that any cost beyond the contract price (initial cost plus estimated 10%) must be agreed to by the homeowner in a written change order.

Where Can I Renew My Registration?

• Contractors can renew their registration with the Office of Attorney General online.

• Contractors must re-register every 2 years. Re-registration applicants will continue to use their previously issued registration number; however, you must renew in order to avoid your HIC number showing as expired in the HIC registry.

• Any home improvement contractor who is not registered is prohibited from offering or performing home improvements. The failure to register is a violation of the law and unregistered contractors face legal action, including civil penalties of $1,000 or more.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: PA Attorney General • (717) 787-3391 This information was adapted from the State Attorney General’s website. You can view the full information and more FAQ’s at www.attorneygeneral.gov.

18

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015

features

Advocacy

In The Building Is Advocacy For Public Safety James E. Gavin, Esquire

N

one of us will forget exactly where we were the moment that we learned of the attack on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. It might be a little harder for us to remember all of the changes in the law relating to national and international security. It is probably pretty unlikely that we remember, if we ever knew, that there were wholesale changes made in the building codes because of the events that occurred on that terrible day.

20

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015

For those of us that are a bit older, we may remember the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino fire back in November of 1980 in Las Vegas. On that sad day, eighty-five (85) people were killed, many due to smoke and carbon monoxide inhalation. Again, what we probably do not remember, if we ever knew, was that fire led to significant changes in the building codes.

In fact, historically in this country, many changes in the law relating to the construction

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Industry

industry arose from very tragic events.

Whenever these things occur, it is only a matter of time before somebody is standing on the floor of Congress or before the state legislature seeking to enact a new law changing how buildings are constructed. In the end that is probably a good thing, unless we make the mistake of not being heard.

One may wonder what would happen if Congress or the state legislature began making changes to the building codes

without the input of builders, architects, and engineers. Maybe what started as a good idea would become completely unmanageable. Maybe what was intended to be safe turned out to be completely unsafe. Or, maybe it just becomes too cost prohibitive to construct.

All this reminds me of a time years ago, when I was in school and working in a Continued on page 22 OCTOBER 2015 AT HOME IN BERKs

21

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

restaurant. The managers sat down one day to prepare a new menu. Although uninvited, some of the cooks left the kitchen and joined the meeting. I asked what they were doing and one of the cooks told me, “It doesn’t matter what they put on that menu if we can’t cook it.” It seems to me that the construction industry may be the same. It may not matter what the building codes say if the construction cannot be done in a safe, cost effective and efficient manner. Hence the need for advocates in the legislature to speak on behalf of the building industry.

The Home Builders Association of Berks County, the Pennsylvania Builders Association, and the National Association of Home Builders are the construction industry’s advocates in the state and national legislatures. Whenever some new legislation is presented that governs or affects the construction industry, these advocates are present to suggest and argue for changes that provide for safer construction in a more cost

22

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015

On August 4, 2015, a fast moving fire effective manner. In short, they are advocating for the builder and for public safety. destroyed an apartment complex in Ocean Township, New Jersey, leaving at least The mission statement of the Home twenty (20) residents homeless. Two police Builders Association of Berks County is officers and one fire fighter were injured in really quite simple. It clearly states that the this fire. One can only speculate whether Home Builders Association of Berks County this fire will trigger changes in building “is a leading advocate for the building industry codes. If so, being an active member of by promoting trust and value in the com- an association like the Home Builders munity.” It accepts this mission with honor, Association of Berks County gives you a and a duty that it pursues with vigor. It also voice and lets you be part of the solution. stems from recognition that, collectively, we Let your voice be are stronger than we are individually. heard, get involved.

This country, probably more than any other, is great because it gives us all the opportunity to be heard. The truth is, however, that you will not be heard unless you make yourself heard. It is through organizations like the Home Builders Association of Berks County and its affiliates that builders are given a voice. If you are not already doing so, I strongly urge you not to pass on the chance to make yourself heard.

Call the Home Builders Association of Berks County at (610) 777-8889 for more information.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: James E. Gavin, Esquire, is an attorney with Masano  Bradley Attorneys At Law located in Wyomissing, PA. He is also the current Vice President of the Home Builders Association of Berks County.

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Angles

T

July 21, 2015

he Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced today that it will be instituting new mortgage lending rules effective October 3. The implementation date was originally scheduled for August 1 and then pushed back to October 1, before being delayed an additional 48 hours due to late paperwork filings.

What does this mean for homebuyers, home builders and lenders?

On October 3, the Good Faith Estimate, the Truth in Lending and HUD-1 Settlement Statements will be replaced by the CFPB’s new integrated disclosure forms, the “Loan Estimate” and the “Closing Disclosure.”

The biggest change is that the Closing Disclosure must be provided to the consumer a full three days prior to closing, and if there are certain changes during that 72-hour period, the closing could be delayed.

NAHB, Others Seek Hold Harmless Period

NAHB and other industry allies have urged CFPB Director Richard Cordray to provide a hold-harmless period for the initial months of the new process so that good-faith efforts to comply with the new disclosure regime do not expose lenders, settlement service providers and others to regulatory penalties and litigation.

The American Bankers Association reported Cordray stating that his agency would be sensitive to those who are “just trying to get it right” during his appearance before the Senate Banking Committee on July 15. “And so for the first period, which may last many months, the other agencies and ourselves as we work on this, if we see errors, we will point out what they are and how they should be corrected,” said Cordray. “We will not be looking to be punitive to people.”

While NAHB appreciates the tone taken by Cordray, NAHB is urging Congress to pass House and Senate bills H.R. 2213 and S. 1711, which would provide a temporary safe harbor from enforcement of the new lending rules through the end of the year.

To prepare those in the residential construction field for the impending rule changes, NAHB held a webinar June 24 to explain how to work proactively with lenders and settlement stakeholders to avoid unnecessary delays to home closings. A replay of this webinar will be posted on nahb.org.

For more information, email Steve Linville at NAHB or call him at 800.368.5242 x8597.

OCTOBER 2015 AT HOME IN BERKs

23

Angles

Jess Long

S

aving electricity means saving money.

It’s that simple.

And as we head toward winter— usually a season of heavy energy use—taking steps to save energy can really add up.

The good news is, you don’t have to spend a lot of time or money to save energy. If you happen to be in the market to replace a major appliance, you can save by choosing an ENERGY STAR®-rated replacement.

But if you’re not, you can still take simple, cost-effective actions for smart energy use.

Here are some common steps you can take at your home or business:

HOME

Heating your home accounts for more than 30 percent of an average home’s energy bill—the single biggest energy expense in your home.

Turning the thermostat down about one degree saves about 2 percent on your heating bill. Turning it down five degrees saves about 10 percent. To save energy, set your thermostat at 68° F in the winter and 78° F in the summer, if possible.

We offer energy-saving tips, as well as information on energy-saving rebate proA programmable thermostat lets you grams, at https://www.pplelectric.com/ easily lower the temperature when no one save-energy-and-money.aspx. And we is home, and overnight. You could save as encourage both residential and business much as 20% on your heating costs. customers to look at ways to save.

Water heating accounts for the second largest use of energy in most homes.

Set the water heater thermostat to 120 degrees. It is one of the easiest ways to save.

Ninety percent of the energy used by a washing machine is used

to heat the water. Go green by washing clothes in cold water, which cleans clothes just as effectively as warm or hot water in most situations.

Wrapping your water heater with an insulating blanket can help you save on your electric bill. To see if your tank needs insulation, place your hand on the tank. If it feels warm, a blanket could help.

Insulate your hot water pipes. It is easy to do and inexpensive. Pipe insulation made of fiberglass or foam can be found in all building supply stores.

Replacing older showerheads with lowflow units could save a family of four as much as 15,000 gallons of water per year, reducing water heating costs by over $150.

About 75 percent of the power used by electronics is wasted energy called “phantom power.” Consider using Smart Strips with electronics such as your home entertainment center and computer. Smart Strips automatically power down electronics you’re not using, while continuing to provide power to those that need it.

Make sure your computer’s “sleep” mode is enabled. The computer will switch automatically to a low-energy mode when you are away, cutting energy usage by more than half.

Unplug chargers and power adapters when not in use. When your cell phone, digital camera or laptop is finished charging, the charger still draws energy unless you unplug it.

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

About 10 percent of your electricity bill is spent lighting your home. There is an easy way to reduce that: switch to light-emitting diode bulbs. LEDs use up to 75 percent less energy and last up to 20 times longer than traditional incandescents. Because they’re so energy-efficient, LEDs can save you up to $135 over the life of the light bulb.

When buying new lighting fixtures or bulbs, look for the ENERGY STAR® label. They are the most energy-efficient on the market.

Turn off the lights when you leave a room. This energy-saving measure has been around since Edison, and it is as effective as ever. Have trouble remembering to turn the lights off ? Occupancy sensors automatically switch them off once you leave a room—saving you money.

BUSINESS

Tune up your heating, ventilating and air-conditioning system with an annual maintenance contract. Even a new ENERGY STAR qualified HVAC system, like a new car, will decline in performance without regular maintenance.

Regularly change (or clean if reusable) HVAC filters every month during peak cooling or heating seasons. New filters usually only cost a few dollars. Dirty filters cost more to use, overwork the equipment and result in lower indoor air quality.

Sealing leaks in your air ducts can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 20 percent.

Install an ENERGY STAR-qualified programmable thermostat to automate your HVAC system. This solid-state, electronic device optimizes HVAC operation 24/7 based on your schedule, and can be overridden as needed.

Control direct sun through windows, depending on the season. During cooling season, block direct heat gain from the sun shining through glass on the east and especially west sides of the facility.

Use fans to maintain comfortable temperature, humidity and air movement, and save energy year-round. Moving air can make a somewhat higher temperature or humidity feel comfortable.

Plug leaks with weather stripping and caulking. Caulking and weatherstripping let you manage your ventilation.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

As a regional affairs director for PPL Electric Utilities, Jess Long handles community relations and serves as a spokeswoman throughout the utility’s footprint in south central Pennsylvania.

She serves on the board of the Capital Region Economic Development Corporation, sits on an Executive Leadership team for the Lancaster City Alliance, and is a member of the marketing committees for Alder Health Services and the YWCA of Greater Harrisburg.

OCTOBER 2015 AT HOME IN BERKs

25

Angles

Are Your Heating Costs Flying Out the Window?

Deb Kearse

D

rafty winter breezes have your drapes swaying? Tired of climbing ladders to clean windows and hassle with storm sashes? Agonizing over rising energy bills?

Certainly replacing your old, inefficient windows will address your woes, but do you know what to look for?

The Department of Energy (DOE) estimates the amount of energy lost annually through windows and doors is $35 billion. So, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) created the Energy Star® program to help taxpayers save money and help the environment through energy efficiency. Energy Star enlisted the National Fenestration* Rating Council (NFRC) to test, rate and label every

window manufactured by Energy Star partners. All Energy Star windows display an NFRC label verifying these window energy properties. This helps make sure that the efficient windows you are being sold are truly what the salesperson says they are.

Window Label Lingo

Don’t be intimidated by these terms shown on the window labels; following each set of initials below are explanations to help you.

You won’t become an expert overnight, but it can’t hurt to learn more about this important investment.

U-Factor: Measures how well the window prevents heat from escaping the home.

The lower the number, the better. Most of Pennsylvania, in the Energy Star Northern Zone, was given a one-year grace period to comply with U-Factor requirements. Today, the U-factor must be .30 or less; after January 1, 2016, the U-factor must be .27 or less.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Measures how

much heat from the sun is blocked. A higher number is better in northern climates, capturing solar heat gain in the winter and reducing heating costs. The range is zero to 1, with 1 being the maximum amount of solar heat allowed through a window, and 0 being the least.

Visible Transmittance (VT): The amount of light that

comes through the glass is expressed as anywhere from zero to 1 VT. A higher number indicates a greater argon or krypton, potential for letting light in.

26

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Air Leakage (AL): Indicates how much air comes through

the product overall. The range is 0.1 to 0.3, with a lower number preferred. Air leakage labeling is optional; manufacturers may choose not to report this measurement.

Low-E: This refers to a coating on triple- or double-pane window

panes that keep heat in and cold out or vice versa. Inert, colorless, odorless gases, such as argon or krypton, are blown into the glass cavity on windows to increase efficiency.

The Look You Want

All this technical jargon is helpful in getting the best value for your investment, but you don’t have to compromise the aesthetics of your home. Exterior color choices are practically unlimited.

Weather Shield and Eagle brands offer exterior windows in over 60 designer colors, including metallic. Interior woods come in so many species now besides pine, such as oak, cherry, mahogany, alder, maple and fir. Tailor your window style even more with an array of grille options to accent your home.

Low-maintenance vinyl windows have gone far beyond plain vanilla. A top choice of builders and remodelers, Simonton Windows offers a variety of exterior color choices, including Cream, Brick, Pine, Chocolate and Bronze. Interior finishes to match your woodwork include Antique Cherry, Maple or Contemporary Oak, accented with hardware options in oil-rubbed bronze, brushed nickel or antique brass.

The type of window you choose may have an effect on energy savings, but the style of your home may dictate the unit and how it looks. A casement window typically gives you better protection against the elements. The window is hinged on one side like a door, allowing you to crank it out for ventilation. Sash locks draw it in snugly for closure and a tighter seal.

Double-hung windows are two panes of glass that slide up and down, allowing ventilation from top and bottom, with a full screen.

Closure is at the center where the two sashes meet; these can be locked for safety and energy efficiency.

Your local window sales office can help you wade through the many selections and offer expert advice. Still, doing a little research before you purchase your windows can prepare you to ask the right questions—and make the right decisions—especially when it comes to saving energy.

*Fenestration: a technical term for how windows and doors are arranged on a structure.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Deb Kearse, Kohl Building Products Kohl Building Products | www.kohlbp.com

860 Wesley Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA • 800.793.5645 205 Roosevelt Avenue, York, PA • 877.407.5645

OCTOBER 2015 AT HOME IN BERKs

27

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Membership happenings welcome new members Boyer’s Floor Covering Dottie Kercher 3020 Kutztown Rd, Reading, PA 19605 PH: (610) 921-2088 Email: Boyersfloorcov@aol.com Sponsor: Kert Sloan

Devikon Group Mike Gvodas 318 Anvil Dr., Douglasville, PA 19518 PH: (484) 824-4456 Email: Mike@DevikonGroup.com Sponsor: Ed Anewalt

Spring Valley Millwork, Inc. Laura Grande 108 So. Hull St., Sinking Spring, PA 19608 PH: (610)927-0144 Email: svmillwork@comcast.net Sponsor: Ed Anewalt

2015 Upcoming Events…

OCT 16

6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Membership Drive

OCT

All About Your Membership (For all

21-22 27

HBA Office All Day

interested Businesses & 2015 New Members) HBA Office 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm

NOV

PBA Association Training

NOV

PBA Committee & Board Meetings

5

NOV 18

JAN 14

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015

Cherry Crest Maze

OCT

6-7

28

Family Fun Night For ALL Members

Hershey Lodge, Hershey All Day

(Open to all HBA Members) Hershey Lodge, Hershey All Day

General Membership Meeting & Elections (All Members Welcome) Hershey Lodge, Hershey Start Time: 6:00 pm

2016 Board of Directors Installation & Builders Excellence Awards Double Tree, Reading 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Membership happenings 2015 Foundation Club Members: (In date order)

Thank You to these Renewing Members of the HBA of Berks County!

James Gavin, Esquire Masano Bradley

Kert Sloan Aluminum Associates / Sloan Corp

31+ Years

Tom Kearse Kohl Building Products

Eric Keller Berks Fire Water Restoration Inc.

21-25 Years

Deborah Kearse Kohl Building Products

Patrick J. Dolan Dolan Construction Inc

Larry Kehres L.A. Kehres Building & Remodeling

Beth A. Hahn SAH, Inc.

Brad Kehres L.A. Kehres Building & Remodeling

Gregg A. Bogia Bogia Engineering, Inc.

Edward Anewalt IV Anewalt’s Landscape Contracting

Diane R. Salks Riverview Tree & Landscaping, Inc.

Walter Greth Greth Homes

Steven D. Bright EJB Paving & Materials Co.

John Newton Greth Homes

Larry K. Lill UGI HVAC Services

David Gallen Gallen Insurance

Gregory R. Eshbach Malsnee Tile & Stone

Bob Holt Holts Remodeling

John E.P. Schmoyer Fulton Mortgage Company

 Greth Homes  Reading Precast Inc.  Frank Ferrara & Son, Inc.  Hotsy Equipment Company  Ram Siding Co., Inc.

 Malsnee Tile & Stone, Inc.  Sanatoga Water Conditioning  Berks Career & Technology Center  Creation Cabinetry LLC  L.H. Brubaker Appliances, Inc.  Dave Roche Electric, Inc.

2-5 Years

 E. G. Smith, Inc.  Lacey Electric, Inc.  Greater Reading Chamber  AGM Associates Inc. of Commerce 11-15 Years  Kelly’s Kleaning  Reading-Berks Association of REALTORS®  Reinsel Kuntz Lesher LLP Suzy Rae Design  Martin Appliance & Water Conditioning 

16-20 Years

6-10 Years

 Breyer Construction & Landscape, LLC  Holland’s Electric, Inc.

1st Year Anniversary  TW Construction, LLC

Member 2 Member Discount Program As one of the many benefits of membership in the Home Builders Association of Berks County (HBA), the following members are offering the discounts listed to HBA members only.

Quality Floors Inc.

Contact: Chuck Smith 800.446.6035

10% OFF ANY ORDER (Not valid with any other offers or prior purchases) Geoff Penske Buick GMC

Contact: Victor Popescu 610.777.1300

GM AFFINITY PROGRAM & PARTNERSHIP WITH HBA (Call Victor for more details on how you can save)

Berks Transfer Kevin Kozo Turnberry Custom Homes

Bruce T. Rader Berks Surveying & Engineering

Contact: Bob Quinn 610.926.7626

$50 OFF 1ST CAN ORDER TO NEW CUSTOMERS Aluminum Associates / Sloan Corporation

Joseph J. Witkowski, Jr. Herbein + Company

Bryan Moll B&G Glass

Cathy Sloan Hartman’s Home Improvements

Call the HBA office at 610.777.8889 to learn how to become a member of the FOUNDATION CLUB. These members understand the important role legislation plays in their businesses and the importance of electing and supporting legislators who are sensitive to the issues affecting the building industry.

Contact: Kert E. Sloan 610.921.2201

5% DISCOUNT ON ALL SERVICES Martin’s Flooring, Inc.

Contact: Richie Zook 877.445.7799

FREE INTERIOR DESIGN & SPECIAL HBA CONTRACTOR PRICING (Ask about our contractor referral program)

If you would like to join the HBA or offer a Member 2 Member Discount, contact the HBA office: 610.777.8889.

OCTOBER 2015 AT HOME IN BERKs

29

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

What’s HOT ON

HBAberks

channel

Candidate Announced: HBA Restoring Hope 2015

Ask The Home Inspector Guest: Malsnee Tile & Stone Inc.

The Candidate Announcement (Thursday, June 11th, 2015): The Restoring Hope 2015 Build extreme home makeover project will go to Jeremy & Meggan Landis and their two children, Gabe & Bella, of Wernersville, PA.

Host Joe Kelly welcomes Malsnee Tile & Stone, Inc. to the “Ask the Home Inspector Show.” Guest Zach shares valuable information on what Malsnee Tile & Stones does. They have been servicing the Berks County area since 1935. When considering tile or stonework, let Malsnee be your “go to” company, even if you are thinking of a DIY project. They will not steer you wrong.

The HBA of Berks County has always represented the best builders, remodelers, trade contractors, and associated professionals in the construction industry.

This is our way of thanking and giving back to a community that provides us our livelihoods. The HBA Restoring Hope Foundation (RHF) is neighbors helping neighbors so a community can rebuild itself. It is not a ‘hand out’ but a ‘hand up’ for one family in the county each year.

The HBA of Berks County, BCTV.org, and the “Ask the Home Inspector” television show teamed up in 2015 to provide monthly shows to educate the public on home maintenance, construction, and similarly related issues. (Length: 24:53)

The 2015 Build will take place from September 13th through 18th with the Big Reveal on September 19th at the Landis’s home in Wernersville, PA at Noon. All are invited to participate, whether members or non-members of the association, through donations of funds, goods, services, or time. Contact the HBA office at (610) 777-8889 or Info@HBAberks.org to find out where you can fit in. (Length: 5:24)

30

When It All Goes Wrong – Restore It!

Big Brain Issue? Call the Engineers!

Host Joe Kelly welcomes Berks Fire Water Restorations, Inc. to the “Ask the Home Inspector Show.” Jessica Prutzman and Eric Keller join Joe to cover topics such as: hail storms, an October snow, pipe bursts, bio-hazard & unattended death clean up, or any other damage resulting from water, sewer, or fire.

Host Joe Kelly welcomes Bogia Engineering, Inc. to the “Ask the Home Inspector Show.” Gregg Bogia joins Joe to cover topics such as: foundation cracks, bowed walls, engineering plans, developments, variances, structural design, land development, and subdivisions.

The HBA of Berks County, BCTV.org, and the “Ask the Home Inspector” television show teamed up in 2015 to provide monthly shows to educate the public on home maintenance, construction, and similarly related issues. (Length: 26:07)

The HBA of Berks County, BCTV.org, and the “Ask the Home Inspector” television show teamed up in 2015 to provide monthly shows to educate the public on home maintenance, construction, and similarly related issues. (Length: 25:43)

AT HOME IN BERKs OCTOBER 2015