The Certified Graduate Remodelor program is an intense educational program sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders Remodelors Council and is designed to improve the all-around business performance of the remodelor. All applicants to the program go through an accreditation process which includes educational programming, a thorough check of the candidate’s customers and vendor credit references, licensing, insurance and a full review by the members of the CGR Board of Governors. In essence, the board does the leg work that any customer should do to verify a contractor’s competence and credibility. After candidates are selected they must complete a three year course of study during which both educational requirements and prescribed standards of business experiences and practice must be met. Upon completion of this intense program the candidate receives the CGR designation. Recertification is required every three years and involves additional education. It is the highest professional designation in the remodeling industry and insures that a remodelor is qualified in all the areas of the remodeling trade. Fewer than 3% of all remodelors in the United States have earned the right to display the CGR credential after their name.
Current surveys conducted by AARP strongly suggest that today’s maturing homeowners want to stay in their own home as long as they can. This may require some remodeling accommodations to provide a safe environment in which the homeowner can function independently.
The Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) program was developed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelors Council in collaboration with AARP, NAHB Research Center and NAHB Seniors Housing Council. This program is intended for remodelors who want to provide suggestions which will not only complete the customer’s existing vision, but also provide long term safety and comfort. The focus of this training is to assist remodelors in offering design solutions so that anyone can maintain their independence in the comfort of familiar surroundings.
Applicants for this certification are required to complete a series of classes which cover identification of needs, appropriate barrier free modifications and codes and standards. Additionally, participants become familiar with product ideas and services which may solve problems for the older adults who desire to remain in their homes rather than seeking an assisted living setting or other arrangements.
Remodelors who have the CAPS designation must participate in continuing education courses every three years or participate in community service programs in order to maintain this certification. Fewer than 2% of all remodelors have the CAPS designation.
We at DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen have worked very hard and are extremely proud to be able to offer this expertise for all your remodeling needs. These designations help you determine which remodeling contractor you can depend on to do a truly professional job when faced with so many other contractor choices.