- Adoption of Statewide Building Code
The Board was granted the authority to adopt a statewide building code. The Alabama Residential Building Code Advisory Council (hereinafter “Council”) met for the first time on February 13, 2025. The council is tasked with recommending a building and energy code for adoption by the Home Builders Licensure Board by October 1, 2025. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available. - Recovery Fund Maximum Payout
The Home Builders Licensure Board expanded its consumer protection efforts by increasing the Homeowner Recovery Fund maximum payout from $20,000 to $30,000 towards the satisfaction of a judgment obtained by a homeowner against a licensed homebuilder. - Advertising
Licensed homebuilders are required to include their valid license number on their contracts and to share their license number when advertising. Licensees should display or share a valid, Board-issued license number in print, television, visual and print advertisements; vehicle decals, wraps, and signage; as well as social media pages, posts and websites. License numbers should be easily accessible for the consumers and the general public to find within the advertisement.
Example: HBLB #12345
So why these new changes? Consumer protection. These new procedures proactively identify licensed builders through their advertisements and sets licensees apart from unlicensed builders. The more you use your license number, the more pressure is applied to unlicensed, unqualified contractors.
The Board is not mandating an immediate costly change causing you to scrap a lot of advertising and marketing materials by March 17, 2025. As soon as possible, take the opportunity to make sure you are displaying your license number within your advertising and on your contracts. If you have questions on what you need to do, contact the Board at ask to speak to someone in Legal.
A licensed homebuilder with a valid license issued by the Alabama Homebuilders Licensure Board has demonstrated they possess and maintain the experience, ability, and financial stability through continuing education and annual credit check.
For a more information about the new statutory regulations, visit hblb.alabama.gov.