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Rising Tariffs Inflate Construction Costs, Spark Legal Action

4/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Tariffs on steel, aluminum, and lumber are driving up construction costs in Colorado and New Hampshire.
Colorado ranks lowest in housing competitiveness; New Hampshire requires over 32,000 new homes by 2025.
Builders face average cost increases of 6.3% in Colorado and $10,900 per home nationwide.
State officials are considering legal challenges and legislative actions to address these challenges.

History

Historical Context

President Trump's tariffs are impacting housing markets in the U.S., reminiscent of the trade tensions during the 1930s. The Smoot-Hawley Tariff raised duties on imports, leading to retaliatory measures and economic downturn. Today, builders face rising costs, causing buyer hesitance and stalled projects, echoing past trade protectionism's adverse effects on economic stability and consumer confidence.

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Story summary

Tariffs on steel, aluminum, and lumber are driving up construction costs in Colorado and New Hampshire.
Colorado ranks lowest in housing competitiveness; New Hampshire requires over 32,000 new homes by 2025.
Builders face average cost increases of 6.3% in Colorado and $10,900 per home nationwide.
State officials are considering legal challenges and legislative actions to address these challenges.

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