NAHB: Builders Must 'Do Their Part to Flatten the Curve'

In what is considered a big win for many in the industry who are worried about the future of their projects, the Department of Homeland Security designated the construction of single-family and multifamily housing as “Essential Infrastructure Business.” But the NAHB cautions that although it is beneficial to keep builders on the job, professionals must follow coronavirus precautions to “do their part to flatten the curve.” To assist builders navigating uncharted territory, the NAHB released a Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Plan that includes safety protocol as well as downloads such as a template authorization letter that employees can use if authorities question why they are working. 

NAHB has been working diligently to keep home builders and contractors on the job as large swaths of the American economy shut down to help stop the spread of COVID-19, the illness caused by a new coronavirus. But those still working on homes need to alter their behavior and follow guidance to do their part to flatten the curve.

Over the weekend, the Department of Homeland Security announced that it had designated construction of single-family and multifamily housing as an “Essential Infrastructure Business,” meaning that construction could continue in places under stay-at-home orders. Although this designation is not binding to state and local governments, it does mean that there could be more workers on job sites in the coming weeks.

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