Business Details
33 Years
experience
Sustainable Deconstruction & Reclaimed Materials Experts
Since 1993, The ReUse People (TRP) has pioneered sustainable practices in the construction industry by specializing in deconstruction, material salvage, and environmental education. Our organization collaborates with architects, contractors, and government agencies to divert over 400,000 tons of reusable materials from landfills through strategic deconstruction projects. We have deconstructed materials from more than 4,000 buildings, establishing a robust network of retail outlets for reclaimed materials. Our certified training programs have equipped over 500 individuals with skills in sustainable construction practices, while our consulting services help businesses and municipalities develop effective reuse plans.TRP's expertise in tax-deductible donation management and ordinance implementation positions us as leaders in promoting circular economy principles within the built environment. Our commitment to environmental stewardship is demonstrated through partnerships with local communities, educational institutions, and industry professionals to advance waste reduction strategies.
Services
Deconstruction Services
Material Distribution
Training Programs
Consulting Services
Retail Sales
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in sustainable deconstruction practices
- Our team has trained 500+ workers in green construction methods
- We guarantee 80% material salvage rate from deconstruction projects
- We provide certified training programs for deconstruction professionals
- Our organization has diverted 400,000+ tons of materials from landfills
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)3 nonprofit organization
Services
Deconstruction Services
Our deconstruction services carefully dismantle buildings to salvage up to 80% of materials for reuse. This environmentally friendly alternative to demolition helps property owners reduce landfill waste while preserving valuable resources. Our certified professionals follow strict protocols to ensure maximum material recovery and proper documentation for tax deductions.
Material Distribution
We distribute salvaged building materials through our network of retail outlets and donation programs. This service connects reusable materials with new projects while supporting community development initiatives. Our tracking systems ensure proper documentation for tax-deductible donations and environmental impact reporting.
Training Programs
Our certified training programs equip workers with skills in sustainable deconstruction practices. Participants learn material identification, safe dismantling techniques, and environmental compliance procedures. The program prepares individuals for careers in green construction while supporting workforce development goals.
Consulting Services
We provide expert guidance on developing deconstruction ordinances and waste diversion strategies. Our consultants work with municipalities and businesses to implement effective reuse programs. Services include ordinance development, contractor qualification, and materials management planning.
Retail Sales
Our retail outlets offer quality reclaimed building materials at affordable prices. Customers find unique items like vintage fixtures, architectural elements, and construction materials. This service supports our mission while providing cost-effective solutions for renovation and construction projects.
People
Ted Reiff
Founder & Secretary
With demolition industry expertise and investment banking experience, Ted founded TRP in 1995. He develops national expansion strategies and advises on waste diversion projects while maintaining his demolition contractor license.
Michael Chambers
Executive Director, Treasurer
Bringing accounting and real estate expertise from Big Four firms and Apple/Cisco, Michael manages TRP's finances. His construction hobby complements his role overseeing organizational operations and growth strategies.
Ken Ortiz
Chairman & Illinois Regional Manager
With 25+ years in real estate development and restoration, Ken leads Illinois operations. His background in adaptive reuse projects aligns with TRP's mission, applying renovation expertise to material salvage initiatives.
Brandy Sosa
General Manager
As warehouse operations leader, Brandy manages inventory systems and sales floor operations. With construction experience and accounting education, he tracks material diversion metrics while overseeing deconstruction training programs.
Lorenz Schilling
Commercial Project Manager
With 15 years leading deconstruction projects, Lorenz brings extensive salvage experience. He has managed over 500 projects, diverting 12,000+ tons of commercial materials while developing reuse strategies for large-scale operations.
Questions
What environmental benefits does TRP provide?
We divert over 400,000 tons of building materials from landfills through deconstruction and reuse programs.
Do you offer training programs?
Yes, we've trained 500+ workers and 70+ contractors in sustainable deconstruction practices.
How can I donate building materials?
Contact our local project managers to arrange donations and receive tax-deductible documentation.
Do you sell reclaimed materials?
Yes, our Oakland warehouse and regional outlets offer quality reclaimed building materials at affordable prices.
Can you help develop deconstruction ordinances?
Our experts provide comprehensive guidance for creating and implementing deconstruction regulations.
What areas do you serve?
We operate in 11 regions across the US and Canada with local project managers in each area.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Damon Tighe
Sep 07, 2021
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What a great place! And incredible amount of reused pieces for home repairs etc. Everything from salvage lumber to barely used laundry equipment. Many items are much higher quality than what you can buy at Home Depot or other big stores these days. Somethings may be a little rough around the edges but lots of life left to them
Matt Charlot
May 30, 2021
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The Re Use People of America is a Non Profit dedicated to keeping great quality building materials and appliances, fixtures, windows and doors etc from entering the landfill. Entire homes are dismantled and then brought to this location! You may find just about everything you might need to build a home or a small DIY project. Brandy the manager is very knowledgeable and keeps everything organized. The entire staff are helpful and friendly. I highly recommend this store.
Mark Abbott
Apr 08, 2021
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Been shopping there for years many great deals and values friendly staff speak more than one lingo oh did I mention management? top of the line. you can get anything you want at Alice's Restaurant _walk right in its around the back, just a half a mile from the railroad track you can get anything you want at Alice's Restaurant accepting Alice, like that feel but Home building materials doors and windows and tubs and sinks building materials I have a wonderful stock of reused repurposed one more time around material etcetera
Elena F.
Dec 31, 2019
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This place was a GOLD MINE for supplies for our tiny house. Prices were less than at Urban Ore and the ReStore, which was located next door. We got 2 8x5ft windows for $400. They have many, many doors and windows. They had bulk lumber out back, and good cabinetry, too. I will certainly be back.
Renee H.
Sep 15, 2019
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I had no idea this place existed! I was like a kid at a candy store! I could have saved myself a bunch of money on kitchen cabinets only If I would have known!
Erik
Mar 24, 2019
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ReUse has a HUGE selection of used windows, doors, plumbing (toilets, sinks, bathtubs, fixtures) and appliances (furnaces, water heaters, ovens, ranges, cooktops, microwaves). At least 2 large wearhouses full! The only reason I am giving 4 stars instead of 5 is because they were not all sorted based on size, which would have sped up my search considerably. I came specifically looking for a 32" exterior grade door (with window) but at only 1 3/8" thick, not your typical 1 3/4" thick exterior grade door and found one within 20 minutes at a fair price.
Very helpful and friendly staff added to the appeal of this fantastic establishment. Quite honestly, it puts Urban Ore in Berkeley to shame. You must come here first! They even have a decent selection of fireplace mantels and surrounds, wood burning stoves as well as your standard gas burning fireplaces. Quite impressive!
Very helpful and friendly staff added to the appeal of this fantastic establishment. Quite honestly, it puts Urban Ore in Berkeley to shame. You must come here first! They even have a decent selection of fireplace mantels and surrounds, wood burning stoves as well as your standard gas burning fireplaces. Quite impressive!
