Recap of NVBIA Production Builder Meeting – May 27th

Summer Heat Safety: With summer temperatures approaching, the meeting opened with a timely Safety Minute focused on heat safety. Key reminders included:

• Limiting sun exposure during peak hours (10 AM – 2 PM)
• Staying hydrated and supplementing with electrolytes in extreme heat
• Recognizing heat exhaustion and heat stroke symptoms
• Wearing lightweight clothing and using sunscreen
• Never leaving children or pets in vehicles
• Checking on vulnerable neighbors and protecting heat-sensitive medications
• Practicing safe swimming and using insect repellent appropriately

This segment reinforced the importance of proactive safety measures to protect both workers and residents during high-heat conditions

 

Damage Prevention & Virginia 811 Requirements

Rosemary Langowski from Damage Prevention led a detailed overview of safe excavation practices and Virginia-specific 811 requirements. Key takeaways included:

 

811 Notification Requirements

• Contact 811 before digging, with a 48-hour response window for utility locates
• Tickets are valid for 15 days and limited to a one-third mile scope. Failure to notify 811 remains the leading cause of damages
• Failure to notify 811 remains the leading cause of damages

 

Excavation Safety Rules

• Use non-mechanized tools within tolerance zones
• Adhere to updated PPE requirements and increasing enforcement/fines

 

Enhanced Positive Response (EPR)

• Provides a virtual manifest and locator photos
• Helps confirm mark accuracy and identify access issues before work begins

 

High-Risk Protocols & Field Practices

• Code 70 notifications require additional precautions or standby support
• Use of marker-balls and RFID technology for plastic pipe tracking
• Emphasis on potholing, proper support of service lines, and avoiding obstructions (e.g., paving over valve boxes)

Builders were reminded to call 911 first in the event of a suspected gas leak, followed by Washington Gas, and encouraged to take advantage of free hands-on training at Washington Gas’s “Pipe Town”.

 

Builder Rebate Program (Virginia)

Carlos Rivas (ICF) and the Washington Gas team presented details on the payfor-performance builder incentive program, running from May 2025 through April 2028.

Visit wgsmartsavings.com for additional information regarding energy efficiency rebates.

 

Program Highlights:

• Incentives are paid at $3 per modeled therm saved
• Additional bonuses are available for:
  • ENERGY STAR® homes
  • High-efficiency furnaces
  • Smart thermostats
  • Tankless water heaters
  • Recent projects are averaging approximately $1,200 per home with ~250 therms saved

 

Eligibility Requirements:

• Builders must register as program partners and provide expected annual volume
• Homes must be:
  • New construction
  • Individually metered
  • HERS-rated
  • Located within Virginia Gas Service territory

 

Builders were also encouraged to take advantage of stacking opportunities with other incentives, including a federal tax credit available through June 30.

 

Looking Ahead

The May 27th meeting reinforced Washington Gas’s commitment to safety, innovation, and partnership with the builder community. Open dialogue and candid feedback from attendees continue to shape ongoing improvements in communication, processes, and program delivery.

We look forward to continuing these conversations at future NVBIA meetings and working together to support efficient, safe, and successful project delivery across the region.