11 Easy Holiday Shopping Tips for Online Safety
Holiday shopping season is here! It brings amazing deals—but unfortunately, also a spike in online scams. Before diving into the sales, check out these 11 essential tips to stay safe online! From spotting fake websites to avoiding phishing emails and securing your payments, this guide has everything you need to shop smart and keep cybercriminals out of your holiday fun. Learn how to use multi-factor authentication, set up purchase alerts, and why it’s best to avoid public Wi-Fi for shopping. Don’t let
Health Plan Benefits Year-End Reminders
As we head into the final months of the year, it is a suitable time to review what actions you may want to consider taking, if any, to maximize the benefits you chose since last open enrollment entirely. Many health insurance plans operate on a calendar year basis, meaning any unused benefits may not roll over into the new year. If you are considering a different plan for the next year, even more reason to look over the points below. Here are a few key reminders to help you make the most of your
Napa’s Hourglass Winery Goes 100% Solar with SolarCraft Installation
SolarCraft, a premier provider of solar energy solutions in Napa, Sonoma, and Marin counties for over 40 years, proudly announces the completion of a 127 kW solar power system at the Hourglass Winery, located along Napa Valley's renowned Silverado Trail. Hourglass has reached a pivotal milestone in its sustainability journey by partnering with SolarCraft to fully convert its winery operations to 100% renewable energy while savings thousands in utility bills. Founder Jeff Smith notes, “we take land
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Stay Scam-Free This Holiday Season!
Stay Scam-Free This Holiday Season! The holidays are prime time for cybercriminals looking to exploit the festive rush and target unsuspecting shoppers. With more people online hunting for deals and special offers, scammers ramp up their phishing attacks, hoping to catch you off guard with fraudulent emails, fake websites, and deceptive ads. Don’t let cybercriminals steal the joy out of your celebrations—arm yourself with essential tips to spot phishing scams before they become a holiday
Celebrating our Member Referral Partners - Thank You for Helping Us Build Our Community!
We would like to recognize and celebrate our wonderful REFERRAL PARTNERS!2024:Katharine Moodie, Cook Construction, who referred Shelley Chen, KonstructIQNik Lahiri, Essel Skilled Trades, who referred Haven DevelopmentDan Ross, Ross Painting who referred Alexandra Martinez Villarroel, AMV Business Solutions (Special thanks to Dan for pledging his bonus to our Workforce Development and Scholarship Fund!)Brittany Keyes, State Farm Insurance Agent, who referred Darcy Quinn, A an P Moving, Inc. (Special thanks
Exposed in the National Public Data Breach? Act Now to Secure Your Data
The recent National Public Data Breach has put millions of individuals in danger of fraud and identity theft. Are you curious if you’re affected? Do you want to know the immediate steps to secure your information? In this post, we unpack the breach and what it might mean for you. We provide actionable tips to protect your personal data. Click to read more: Exposed in the National Public Data Breach? Act Now to Secure Your Data
ALERT! New Regulation, File before 12/31/2024 to avoid potential jail time and files of $591/day!
On January 1, 2024, the new requirement to file a beneficial ownership information (BOI) report with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) went into effect. More than 32 million entities – mostly small businesses – have to file this report, which is required by a federal law called the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). Violations of this law can result in a civil penalty of up to $591 per day, the violation continues and criminal penalties of up to $10,000 and two years in prison. If your
Marin Economic Forum - Did You Know? Get ready for more remodeling in Marin
Cash-out mortgage refinancing nationally increased by 50% in September compared to a year earlier and following the Federal Reserve’s interest rate cut. Fueled by an 81% increase in home equity since 2019, home owners are set to increase spending on remodeling by over 30% in 2025 according to new research by John Burns Research and Consulting. The construction industry is an important one in Marin, providing employment and career opportunities, so an uptick in projects is good. But it also means the
Applications Now Open Through December 9th for North Bay Construction Corp - Apply Now!
Click Here For More Information
Aplicaciones Están Disponibles Para el Cuerpo de Construcción de North Bay Hasta el 9 de Deciembre- Aplique Ahora!
Haga clic aquí para más información
SOLARCRAFT BRIGHTENS SKIPSTONE WINES WITH CUTTING-EDGE SOLAR INSTALLATION
SolarCraft, a trusted leader in solar energy for over forty years in Sonoma, Napa and Marin counties, has successfully installed a 225.4 kW solar power system at Skipstone in Geyserville, in Sonoma County's Alexander Valley wine region. This project marks a major milestone in Skipstone’s dedication to sustainability as the company harnesses solar energy. The recently installed solar photovoltaic system at Skipstone features 464 high-efficiency panels arranged in an expansive ground-mounted setup,
Safety & Training Short: Kitchen Safety - Knives
When handling knives, box cutters, or machines and tools with blades, take care to protect yourself from cuts. Cuts from knives may occur as a result of improper handling, improper storage, or the accidental dropping of knives. To prevent injury, apply the following approaches.Planning:Assess tasks to identify the potential hazards and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).Require employees to use appropriate controls and hand protection when exposed to hazards such as cuts and lacerations.Review
Cyber Safety Tips for Your Business
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month! There’s no better time to strengthen your defenses. With cybersecurity incidents on the rise, businesses of all sizes are facing increasingly sophisticated threats. We’ve compiled a few actionable tips to help you protect your business from phishing, ransomware, and other cyber attacks. These practical strategies can help you stay ahead of the threats and safeguard your company’s future. Ready to boost your security? Click the link below to explore how you can start
Get Cash for Heat Pump Water Heater Upgrades - Support Your Clients in a Broken Water Heater Emergency
Get $1,500 for Installing a Heat Pump Water Heater MCE’s Emergency Water Heater Incentive provides contractors $1,500 to help cover the cost of installing and maintaining a temporary loaner water heater (gas or electric) as part of the customer’s permanent heat pump water heater (HPWH) installation. As more households move toward environmentally-friendly options and the Bay Area passes new regulations to support California’s clean energy goals, your clients will need to start replacing gas appliances
A Carefully Constructed Succession Plan for Ghilotti Brothers Construction
Reprinted from Family Business Magazine by Beth Braverman, August 29, 2024Bay Area construction company Ghilotti Brothers has a 10-year timeline for transitioning from the third to the fourth generation. Like anyone else traveling through the San Francisco Bay area, Gino Ghilotti often spotted trucks bearing the name of his family's construction company, Ghilotti Brothers, on local roads. For Gino, a fourth-generation family member, the vehicles were a visible reminder of the responsibilities that come
Safety & Training Short: Job Safety Analysis
The Job Safety Analysis (JSA) Process JSAs are designed to enhance workers’ awareness of and adherence to safety controls. The goal is zero incidents. Obtaining that goal greatly helps the worker and the organization. JSAs outline, for each position, the various hazards of the job and the needed controls and behaviors that will keep incidents from occurring. Use JSAs to teach workers about their jobs and about the importance of safety on the job. JSA implementation: JSAs must be implemented in a
VADU IN THE NEWS: San Rafael couple’s ADU designed for all stages of life
By PJ Bremier | pj@pjbremier.com | IJ correspondent PUBLISHED: September 27, 2024 Marin Independent Journal When Roberta Steiner and her husband, Allan Farovitch, purchased their new Cape Cod contemporary in San Rafael’s Lucas Valley Estates neighborhood 30 years ago, they left behind a 1930s Edwardian home in San Francisco. Their future was now about embracing the Marin lifestyle and the rearing of their two young boys, then ages 4 and 6. “We loved the new construction and the quiet, beautiful
Patty Garbarino Receives the John P. Moscone Award for Lifetime Achievement
North Bay’s local Patty Garbarino, President of Marin Sanitary Service, Marin Recycling and Marin Resource Recovery Center, Board Member of Sonoma County Resource Recovery, and Napa Recycling and Waste Services was honored to receive the John P. Moscone Award for “long-term exemplary commitment and dedicated service to the waste industry” by the Resource Recovery Coalition of California (RRCC) at their annual Convention. Long a leader in innovation of the waste industry, Ms. Garbarino began her career at
Novato Launches New All-Agency Permit Advice Center
Novato Launches New All-Agency Permit Advice CenterIn-person consultations every 1st & 3rd Thursday starting September 5 The City of Novato is pleased to announce the launch of Novato Permit Connections, a new all-agency permit advice center aimed at streamlining the permit process for Novato’s homeowners and small businesses. Novato Permit Connections is your go-to resource to ensure you have everything you need to submit your permit application. Submitting an accurate and complete application
Alten Construction Expands Ownership Team
Photo left to right: Bob Alten, Shannon Alten, Erik Andresen, Bobby Alten and Billy Alten RICHMOND, Calif. —Alten Construction, a full-service San Francisco Bay Area commercial construction general contractor, is pleased to announce the addition of three new partners to its ownership structure. Company founders and co-owners Bob Alten and Shannon Alten welcome sons Bobby Alten and Billy Alten to company ownership, as well as longtime employee and chief estimator Erik Andresen. Bobby joined Alten
Cal/OSHA Bolsters Staff to Investigate the Most Egregious Violations, Referring them for Criminal Prosecution
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Cal/OSHA is strengthening its efforts to increase workplace safety by ramping up recruitment and hiring more investigator staff for its Bureau of Investigations. This important unit is responsible for investigations related to the most serious workplace injuries, including death and makes recommendations for criminal prosecutions. Oakland—Today the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) and its Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) announced that it has increased
Celebrating our 2024-25 Marin Home Resource Guide Ad Partners!
BUILD SMART - BUILD SAFE - BUILD LOCALInspiration I Expertise I ProfessionalsWe would like to thank and celebrate our 2024-25 Marin Home Resource Guide Ad Partners! Listed in alpha order:Aaero Heating & SheetmetalAirport Home ApplianceARCpoint Labs of San RafaelBrittany Keyes, State Farm Insurance AgentBudget Blinds of Central Marin/South Marin/Petaluma/West Santa RosaCalifornia ModernCentral Valley EnvironmentalClough ConstructionCounty of Marin Community Development Agency Sustainability TeamCruise
YES2YUM's Janine Aurichio on Business Success Tips Podcast with Paul Sanneman of CSS
Join two Marin Builders members as they delve into the world of stress-free projects with Mental Fitness Coach Janine Aurichio, who specializes in the construction industry. With over 20 years of experience, Janine shares invaluable insights on navigating challenges, improving mental resilience, and finding balance in the demanding world of contracting. Discover practical strategies to enhance your well-being, boost productivity, and foster a positive work environment. Tune in to gain essential tips for
New eBooks Available from Code Check
We are pleased to announce that Code Check Complete 3rd edition, Building 5th edition, Electrical 9th edition, and Plumbing/Mechanical 6th edition are now available in eBook format. The eBooks contain additional material not found in the print books, and have enhanced navigation tools designed to allow you to quickly find the information you need. These most current Code Check books are based on the same model codes adopted by the state of California. To aid our California customers, we also have a
2024 California Contractors License Law & Reference Book
Significant changes made to streamline book Sacramento, CA – The 2024 edition of the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) California Contractors License Law & Reference Book (Law Book) is now available. CSLB is pleased to introduce a streamlined law book that includes essential information for the California construction industry. The Law Book can be purchased directly from the publisher, or the online PDF version can be viewed or downloaded at no cost on the CSLB website. CSLB has reviewed and made
Civil Rights Department Publishes Updated ''California Law Prohibits Workplace Discrimination and Harassment'' Poster
Government Code section 12850 and related regulations require all California employers to display the “California Law Prohibits Workplace Discrimination and Harassment” poster in a conspicuous place where employees gather. The Civil Rights Department published an updated version of this poster that includes information about protections for employees taking bereavement leave or leave for reproductive loss. It also contains information about prohibitions against discrimination based on an applicant’s use of
2024 Marin County & City Building Permits
Click the links below to view a current list of permit reports published and provided by the County of Marin and the individual cities/towns including Corte Madera, Larkspur, Mill Valley, Novato, Ross, San Anselmo, San Rafael, Sausalito and Tiburon. If what you're looking for is not listed below, please don't hesitate to call our offices directly at 415.462.1220 or contact Gabriela Shea at mba@marinbuilders.com. Important Note: This list is updated monthly with the most current information we receive from
CSLB Reminds Licensees of New Laws Beginning January 1, 2024
Sacramento, CA – Heading into 2024, the Contractors State License Board wants to remind licensees of new laws taking effect in the new year.SB 630 (Dodd) This bill requires CSLB licensees and applicants to provide an email address, if available, when they obtain and renew licenses. The email addresses are not subject to disclosure under the California Public Records Act. This bill also authorizes the Registrar to automatically reimpose license revocation when probationary conditions placed on a license are
Safety & Training Short - Winter Driving
Objective: To assure that employees are prepared for driving in winter conditions. A little extra preparation is needed to assure driver safety during winter months or other inclement weather conditions.Poor driving conditions is one of the biggest winter safety concerns. Due to shorter days, drivers are required to spend more time driving in the dark, and inclement weather can create slick roads and low visibility conditions.Click here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to
Overview of Spring 2024 Construction Classes in Marin
Construction Training Programs and Resources in Marin Marin Builders Association is committed to helping individuals find rewarding careers in the local construction industry.Click here for an overview of Spring classes developed to show the side-by-side comparison of courses offered in Marin. We strongly support high school seniors and young adults interested in the trades to sign up for North Bay Construction Corps. Please view ourMarin Construction Training website for more information.
New Community Development Agency Permit Ombudsperson
Meet Cristy Stanley! Cristy is the new Permit Ombudsperson at the Community Development Agency. She's is “open for business” and ready to assist contractors with the permit approval process at the County of Marin.VIEW HER INTRODUCTORY LETTER HERE
Safety & Training Short: Hand and Power Tools: Striking Tools
There are some general rules that apply to almost all hammers and other striking tools. Never use a striking tool for any purpose other than that for which it was intended. Never use a striking tool with a loose or damaged handle or with a mushroomed head or dull cutting edge. Conditions vary, but it can never hurt to wear goggles when using striking tools.Click here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to download the complete training short in Spanish Safety & Training Shorts
Liens & Completions 2023 - 2024
Click the links below to view a current list of Liens & Completions published and provided by the County of Marin. If what you're looking for is not listed below, please don't hesitate to call our offices directly at 415.462.1220 or contact Paula Krause
North Bay Construction Corps - Marin Class
North Bay Construction Corps - Class of Marin addresses the high demand for construction workers in our community. This program enables students to explore a variety of construction related careers and prepares young adults for internship positions with local Marin Builders Association firms at the end of each class cycle. Made possible by the Mario Ghilotti Family Foundation, the Sausalito, and Mission San Rafael Rotary Clubs, the program helps students: Build Work-Ready SkillsAcquire Basic Tool Safety
Contractors with No Employees Face New Workers' Compensation Requirement
A new law will require almost all contractors in California to carry workers’ compensation coverage, regardless of if they have employees or not. According to the author of the bill, State Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) the new law was necessary due to the tendency of many small contractors to claim they have no employees, when in fact they regularly hire day laborers or undocumented workers. Since a firm with only an owner and no employees is not required to carry workers’ comp coverage, those workers would
Biggest Workers’ Compensation Mistakes by Contractors
In this crazy time of the COVID-19, it is not the time to cut corners to your detriment. While well intentioned contractors are always attempting to keep costs down to make a profit, they make some mistakes regarding workers’ compensation insurance. Most common mistakes are:Certifying with the Contractors License Board that they do not need workers’ compensation insurance as they have no employees when they may have employees or use day laborers. . Not checking the sub-contractors to make sure they are
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Lien Protection Checklist - SUBCONTRACTOR
Click here for Subcontractor Lien Protection Checklist to protect your Lien rights provided by the Marin Builders Association and Dan McLennon of Smith, Currie & Hancock, LLP.Reviewed and Updated February 2024
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Lien Protection Checklist - GENERAL CONTRACTOR
Click here for General Contractors Lien Rights Protection Checklist to protect your Lien rights provided by the Marin Builders Association and Board member Dan McLennon.Reviewed and Updated February 2024