'Certified NH Builder' program launched.

A "Certified NH Builder" program has been established by the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of New Hampshire as a part of its long-standing construction industry education program.

Participants in the program will agree to follow a strict ethical standard in their business relationships with consumers and will participate in ongoing continuing education in various builder related subjects, including customer service, business management, construction contracts, building codes and building technology. Through their participation in the program, builders will be able to seek nationally recognized professional designations, including Graduate Master Builder, Certified Graduate Builder and Certified Graduate Remodeler.

"We have great confidence that this program will both elevate the professional standards of the home-building industry in New Hampshire and will provide consumers with a new tool for selecting a professional home builder or remodeler with confidence," said Kyle Niemela, president of HBRANH. "Education of both home builders and consumers remains the key to avoiding problems in the future."

Niemela said establishment of the program--known as CNHB--resulted from 20 months of research and work on the part of HBRANH members, and that both government and industry programs were reviewed to determine what the most effective approach would be.

"No single approach, whether registration, licensing or other program, has proved to be successful at eliminating problems that occur during home construction," said Niemela. "The CNHB program will provide benefits on its own, or working in conjunction with other types of registration programs currently being considered by the state legislature."

Home builders and remodelers interested in participating in the CNHB program can apply by contacting 228-0351 or [e-mail].