California Employers, Get Ready! Wide Range of Employment-Related Laws Will Take Effect January 1, 2025 + 4 Essential California Employee Handbook Updates for 2025
New California employment laws are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2025. These laws address a variety of issues, including the state minimum wage, discrimination protections, paid time off, and employers’ messages about unionization. Quick HitsCalifornia’s minimum wage will increase from $16.00 to $16.50 per hour.New legislation clarifies that employers may not discriminate against workers because they have a combination of protected characteristics or do not have a driver’s license.California
Windows 10 End of Life: Plan Ahead and Save on 2024 Expenses
Windows 10 End of Life: Plan Ahead and Save on 2024 Expenses Did you know that Windows 10 reaches end of life in October 2025? This means any devices still running Windows 10 will become a security risk to your network once Microsoft stops support. If you’ve been holding off on upgrades or replacements, this might be the perfect time to act, especially if you’re looking for smart ways to allocate 2024 expenses. We can help evaluate your current devices and assist with upgrading or replacing them to keep
Safety & Training Short: Ladder Safety - Safe Use of Ladders
Objective: To provide an overview of ladder safe use principles Ladders, used properly, can be a safe and convenient tool. When used improperly, however, they can lead to a serious injury or result in a fatality.Climbing PositionClimb a ladder by holding on to the rails and not the steps.Climb facing the ladder with your body centered between the rails.Use three points of contact, with at least three extremities attached to the ladder at all times. Do not twist your body while climbing.Click here to
Finding Your Business's Compensation Equation
You’re an employer. You hire people to complete jobs and projects, and then they get paid for their efforts. But that’s just the surface-level description of the employer-employee relationship. When you peel back the layers, the topic of compensation becomes far more nuanced and complex. The real question every business leader must address is: How do you truly determine how much to pay your employees? Is it based on an arbitrary agreed-upon rate? Or perhaps it stems from the results of a detailed
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:Rouset Schwartzbart, Schwartzbart Plumbing, who referred Jonathan Sandler, J Construction Solutions (Special thanks to Rouset for pledging his bonus to our Workforce Development and Scholarship Fund!) Janine Aurichio, YES2YUM Life Styling, who referred, Andrew Mann ArchitectureGreg Cook, Cook Construction, who referred Katharine Moodie, Perseverance AdvisorsKatharine Moodie, Cook Construction, who referred Shelley Chen,
End-of-Year Computer Security Checklist: Secure Your Digital Future in 2025
Plan for 2025 with confidence! Protect your digital future with our end-of-year cybersecurity checklist. Access the Checklist here: End-of-Year Computer Security Checklist: Secure Your Digital Future in 2025
Safety & Training Short: Hazard Communication Awareness
WHAT IS HAZARD COMMUNICATION? The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Hazard Communication standard, also referred to as “HAZCOM,” ensures employees have access to vital safety information about chemicals used in the workplace. It provides employees with the information they have the “right to know” while working with hazardous chemicals.HAZARD COMMUNICATION PROGRAM Your workplace has a hazard communication program available. This program is federally required in all facilities
SolarCraft Introduces Ductless Heat Pumps for Marin, Sonoma and Napa Homes
SolarCraft Celebrates 40 Years of Sustainability with the Introduction of Ductless Heat Pumps. SolarCraft, a leading provider of solar energy and battery storage solutions in Marin, Sonoma, and Napa counties, is thrilled to announce the addition of ductless heat pump systems to its suite of energy-efficient home solutions. As the company celebrates 40 years of serving Northern California, this innovative offering marks another milestone in SolarCraft’s commitment to providing sustainable, locally
Make Computer Security a Priority This Holiday Season
This holiday season brings joy and increased online risks. Cybercriminals are targeting businesses through phishing scams, malware, and other tactics. Learn how to strengthen your computer security and protect your company during this vulnerable time. Read our blog to protect yourself and your company:Make Computer Security a Priority This Holiday Season
Marin Economic Forum -Did You Know? New State economic initiative is promising for Bay Area sectors
A major policy initiative for the State of California economy was recently launched by the Newsom administration to create good-paying jobs and regional economic development. The “California Jobs First Economic Blueprint” will guide the State’s investments in key sectors to drive sustainable economic growth, innovation, and access to good-paying jobs over the next decade. The complete Economic Blueprint will be released early next year, along with $120 million to support “ready-to-go" job-creating projects
Safety & Training Short: Hearing Protection
Don’t take your ability to hear for granted. If you are not careful, you can lose your hearing. If you are exposed to very loud noise or moderately loud noise for an extended period, you must take some form of hearing protection precautions.When must hearing protection be provided and worn?The “Best Practices” approach to hearing protection requires that whenever a worker’s noise exposure is at or above an 8-hour average of 85 decibels, hearing protection should be worn.The best defense against hearing
Gift Guide: Smart Tech that won't compromise your computer security
Gift Guide: Smart Tech That Won’t Compromise Your Computer Security Looking for the perfect tech gifts this holiday season? Learn how to choose secure devices, protect your network, and prioritize computer security to keep your digital environment safe. Don't let cyber risks dampen the holiday cheer. Read our blog now and stay one step ahead of the bad guys: "Gift Guide: Smart Tech That Won’t Compromise Your Computer Security”.
Wrap Up the Year Right: The Importance of HR, Employee Coaching, and Year-End Activities
As we approach the end of another successful year, it's the perfect time to reflect on accomplishments, set the stage for the future, and take care of important year-end activities. These tasks are more than just administrative—they play a critical role in ensuring the organization’s success, growth, and collective progress. Here are a few reasons why year-end activities matter and what you can do today to load 2025 for success:1. Reflecting on Achievements and Challenges Year-end reviews give us the
Fall 2024 edition of the California Licensed Contractor Newsletter
Continued Here Write us at cslbinfo@cslb.ca.gov for questions or feedback regarding this newsletter.
Applications OPEN: Fire Safe Vendor List!
We are thrilled to announce that you can now apply to be included in the California Fire Safe Council’s first-annual Fire Safe Vendor List! This free publication launching in early 2025, will list businesses throughout California working in the fields of fire safety, prevention, and/or mitigation. By connecting local Fire Safe Councils, wildfire resilience organizations, and homeowners alike with qualified vendors, the Fire Safe Vendor List is streamlining the process of sourcing products and services
Home Hardening in Action
When wildfire swept through Camarillo, California, Steven Snyder’s fire-hardened home emerged unscathed amid widespread destruction in his neighborhood. By choosing to build with fire-resistant materials—Class A roofing, fireproof siding, ember-resistant vents, and a fully cleared defensible space—Snyder’s home stood resilient against the flames. His story underscores the critical role of wildfire-ready construction as California’s seasons grow more intense, especially in high-risk areas like Marin
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
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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
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
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
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
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
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