NAHB Expresses Concerns Over Cluster Mailboxes

In a letter to members of the House Financial Services Committee, NAHB expressed concerns to federal lawmakers over increased costs and undue burdens to America's home builders and home owners regarding the use of cluster mailboxes by the U.S. Postal Service.

The letter was sent as the committee held a hearing to examine the fiscal health of the U.S. Postal Service. Since 2012, the Postal Service has expressed preference for centralized delivery service, typically to cluster mailbox units. In practice though, this change has resulted in a de facto mandate for new construction across the nation.

In its letter to lawmakers, NAHB noted that if home owners are members of a home owners association (HOA), "they will end up paying significantly for the upkeep and maintenance over the life of the cluster box unit. If they are not a member of an HOA, it is unclear who (if anyone) will be responsible for the ongoing upkeep and maintenance of the unit or any associated legal liabilities, especially if the unit is placed on private property."

By moving to cluster mailboxes in an attempt to save money, the Postal Service is essentially shifting this additional upfront cost to home builders — and ultimately — to home owners. NAHB stands ready to work with Congress to move legislation to improve the outlook of the Postal Service but believes it is important for lawmakers to hold hearings examining the costs and benefits associated with a shift to centralized mail delivery.

For more information, contact Alex Strong at 800-368-5242 x8279.