Safe and healthy housing
Our Safe and Healthy Housing practice model is the foundation of our home repair and modification work.
Rebuilding Together seeks to advance health equity by improving health and housing outcomes for our neighbors in need in economically distressed communities. Through a collaboration with National Center for Healthy Housing, Rebuilding Together developed a set of 360 specs for common repairs based on the Eight Principles of Healthy Homes. This includes a 25-point framework that targets significant health and safety hazards in homes. Our 25 Health and Safety Priorities provide a common framework for our affiliate network to complete comprehensive in-home assessments and set repair objectives based on each homeowner’s special needs and health status. Each home has varying degrees of need and some projects may only address a single priority, such as installing a ramp, or several items, such as roof repair, energy efficiency upgrades, and grab bars. This framework also provides a means for Rebuilding Together affiliates to track and report the results of our repairs, helping them to set clear expectations with our clients and provide a platform for further partnership and collaboration to meet unmet needs.
Information on Asbestos from The Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com.
Many people may not realize that asbestos is still present in older homes. While asbestos is generally safe when left undisturbed, any renovations, repairs, or even normal wear and tear can release harmful fibers into the air. This exposure has been linked to serious health risks, including mesothelioma. Our guides to Asbestos in the Home explain where asbestos may be found, what steps to take if it is suspected, how to safely handle or remove asbestos-containing materials, and health risks: