NAHB Surveys Builders on the Environment

The National Association of Home Builders released in November the results of an environmental survey filled out by about 400 members. Among 17 environmental issues impacting builders, stormwater discharge topped the list with 47% affected, followed in order by building codes (46%), wetlands (46%), erosion/sediment control (41%), zoning regulations (38%), subdivision regulations (35%), and flood plans (22%). Other issues included endangered species (16%), ground water quality (8%), and lead contamination at the bottom of the list (3%).

The median cost per lot for complying with federal, state, and local environmental regulations was $3,000. Thirty-six percent of respondents spend less than $2,000 per lot, and 21% spend more than $10,000.