Construction Project Information

Construction Project Work Schedule

HFHIWV normally works on houses on every Saturday and Flex Fridays (days the base is closed for business). We occasionally work during the week. The hours during which we work are weather dependent. During most of the year we work from 8:00 am until 3:00 pm. During hot weather in the summer we work from 7:00 am until 1:00 pm. We do not work during periods of extreme wind. A light breakfast-style snack is provided during a morning break, and lunch is served at around noon. We do not provide meals during weekdays except for Flex Fridays. If you have a group coming in to stay for a week, we will make arrangements for meals during the work hours.

Construction Project Phases

Acquire the Property

Property for building homes represents a major cost of a house project. Habitat property often is donated by individuals or organizations. Many of the local real estate offices assist at no charge in property acquisition.

Acquire Plans and Permits

The cost of plans and permits has increased significantly in recent years. This cost can not be waived by government agencies due to law. These fees pay for infrastructure and services such as roads, schools, police, and fire.

Grading

Grading is important to insure building integrity during times of rain and flooding. Grading is performed at a reduced rate by local business or by volunteers operating rental equipment.

Underground Utilities

Part of the utilities reside underground and are installed prior to pouring a slab. They can include electric, phone, cable, water, and sewer. New technology is moving water supply to the attic.

Foundation

Most home foundations in the Indian Wells Valley consist of a slab of concrete sitting on top of elevated dirt that has been graded. Many times the Habitat volunteer team lacks skills and equipment to perform this task. In such cases, this phase of construction is contracted out.

Framing

Framing is always performed by volunteers. One experienced volunteer can supervise many unskilled volunteers to frame a house.

Electrical

Electrical is always performed by volunteers. One experienced volunteer can supervise many unskilled volunteers to wire a house.

Plumbing

Plumbing is always performed by volunteers. One experienced volunteer can supervise many unskilled volunteers to plumb a house. The sewer system includes a subsurface and above ground phase. The subsurface work must be performed prior to installing the slab. The above surface phase is performed after framing is complete.

Heating and Cooling

Heating and cooling is performed by volunteers with some help from professionals. This phase involves interaction with plumbers and electricians.

Roof

Roofing is performed by volunteers. This work requires attention to safety to reduce injuries due to falling.

Landscaping and Flat Work

Landscaping and flat work provides character to the property. A little help from the local nursery goes a long way. Landscaping is transitioning from primarily grass to native plants to conserve water. The local water district can help with landscape design.

Dedication

The dedication is a significant Habitat event. Habitat volunteers turn the house over to the partner family to become a home. By this time the partner family has passed several interviews, provided sweat equity, and bonded with many of the volunteers. This event should be a significant milestone in the lives of the partner family. Since Habitat finances Habitat homes at zero percent interest, the relationship continues until the home is paid off or sold.