10.8.09 | The NAHB passed recommendaton #3 at its board meeting on October 2 in Chicago, IL.

NAHB Recommendation
Title:
Interior Designer Licensing
Original Sponsor:
NAHB Remodelers
WHEREAS, builders and remodelers regularly practice elements of interior design in the normal course of residential construction without the need or requirement of special interior design training or licensing;
WHEREAS, the National Association of Home Builders is a strong proponent of professional education, training and certification, and NAHB members may be specially trained and/or certified, and may also be members of other professional organizations, such as the National Kitchen and Bath Association, the American Society of Interior Designers, or the International Interior Designers Association;
WHEREAS, NAHB supports and recognizes the value of special titles, professional designations and certification, but does not support legislation that limits, prohibits or restricts the practice of interior design by individuals who are not certified or licensed as interior designers or that may restrict someone from using the title “interior designer” or “ Interior design”;
WHEREAS, while special interest groups may petition states to enact new laws and regulations restricting who can hold the title, “Interior Designer” or advertise the service of “interior design” ( a Title Act), and who can practice interior design (a Practice Act), Interior Designer title and practice acts do not provide a necessary form of consumer protection; and
WHEREAS, Interior Designer title and practice acts are not necessary to protect the health and safety of the public, and such laws will increase the cost of construction and make housing and remodeling less affordable,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RECOMMENDED that the National Association of Home Builders support and assist state and local home builders associations in their efforts to oppose legislation that restricts the ability of NAHB members to practice interior design in the normal pursuit of their residential construction and remodeling businesses; and
BE IT FURTHER RECOMMENDED that NAHB support and assist state and local home builders associations in their efforts to oppose legislation that restricts the ability of NAHB members to use the descriptive designation of “Interior Designer” or to advertise “interior design” services in the normal pursuit of their residential construction and remodeling businesses.
Board of Directors Action: APPROVED