FAQ & Resources

Homes, like all structures built for human occupancy, are assembled on-site, by hand, from the ground upward in the elements of nature by scores of construction professionals. As such, situations develop and questions arise involving the construction methods, practices, materials, and techniques used to complete the project. Each construction issue and circumstance is different and often involves a myriad of building codes, municipal ordinances, Michigan laws, and federal regulations.

When questions or situations arise, it is important to discuss those promptly and directly with the home builder. The home builder’s insight and expertise about the project can lead to quick resolution, provided that clear communication is established. Contact with the home builder should be done as soon as the issue becomes known especially issues involving the home’s plumbing system, electrical system, roofing, and structural components. It is important to all involved in the construction process that homeowners with construction questions or experiencing what they perceive to be construction defects contact the home builder in writing and by telephone to fully describe the issue.

Homeowners that have unresolved questions or concerns about their home’s construction can pursue other avenues to have their concerns addressed.

Please contact the Lakeshore HBA office at 616.392.6233 regarding the HBA’s Complaint Procedure and other options.

The Lakeshore Home Builders Association (HBA) is a voluntary trade organization representing all segments of the residential building industry. Through training, education, and active participation in the legislative and regulatory process, our organization works in conjunction with local home builders associations throughout Michigan to make membership an essential element of a successful building industry company.

We are not a regulatory agency. The Lakeshore HBA is governed by a Board of Directors elected by members, and the board directs the policies and operations of the association in accordance with its bylaws. The policies and bylaws of the Lakeshore HBA do not include any formal or informal process to settle disputes against industry members, however a complaint may be filed.

Those experiencing difficulties with home construction projects are welcome to share their experience with the Lakeshore HBA and may contact the office at 616.392.6233 or email admin@lakeshorehomebuilders.com regarding the HBA’s Complaint Procedure and other options.

A nonprofit association that manages the common areas of a modern subdivision or planned community. The association collects fees, either monthly or annually, from all owners to pay for maintenance of common areas, handle legal and safety issues, and enforce the covenants, conditions, and restrictions set by the developer. Sometimes referred to as a Property Owners Association (POA). They are very common in rural subdivisions outside of incorporated areas.

While production builders build communities by restricting design to a group of preselected home types on lots they have picked and purchased themselves, custom builders tend to build on land owned by the customer and start fresh with each design.

Production builders typically construct a large number of homes throughout the year; these may offer a variety of options, but production builders generally do not use construction plans other than the ones selected by the building firm. Custom builders spend more time on each project and often work on fewer than ten homes a year.

The Lakeshore Home Builders Association has several members with a directory of them. You can find it at:  https://members.lakeshorehba.com/list/