I agree with 8track and HD in the above posts about Obama's and other government policies killing business. You may have read my story in another thread about my Awning & Canopy Co. that is barely hanging on (thanks to my taking a 60% pay cut over the past 3 years). That's only part of the story.
I used to also do replacement windows, doors, etc. Right after Obama took office, he had the EPA enforce a lead paint mandate. If you do any work in a house built prior to 1977 that disturbs paint (replace windows, remodel, remove a piece of molding, perform any painting, etc.), you are required to be trained and licensed by the EPA. You must use hazmat suits, and approved respirators while doing the work. The entire work area must be sealed in plastic. Warning signs must be displayed in the work area, and the yard to warn neighbors. When done, the whole area must be cleaned with an approved HEPA vacuum, and the contents, suits, etc., must be disposed of as hazardous waste. If followed, it would double or triple the cost to do any work on your pre 1977 home. If caught not following the mandate, companies face a $10,000 fine per incident. A few companies have complied, and found they have priced themselves out of the market or can no longer compete. Some ignore the mandate, hoping not to get caught. Others like me, stopped doing this kind of work. I could do everything they want, and screw up in one area, and bam, a $10,000 fine. Not worth the risk.
dpnewell wrote:
