When it comes to choosing a builder for your home renovation or extension, quality, reliability, and expertise are paramount. Yet, in an industry crowded with options, how can you be sure you’re entrusting your home to a builder with consistent excellence? One indicator you can rely on is industry awards—specifically those judged by the Housing Industry Association (HIA) and Master Builders Association (MBA). These awards are more than just trophies on a shelf; they are a hallmark of consistent high standards and a robust, sustainable business model.
What Are the HIA and MBA Awards?
The HIA and MBA are Australia’s two leading industry bodies, both with long-standing reputations for promoting excellence in residential construction. Each year, they hold state-based award programs that celebrate the finest achievements in building and design. Projects that win state-level categories often progress to the national stage, where they compete against the best in the country.
The judging process is rigorous and impartial. Experienced industry professionals evaluate projects based on a range of criteria, including:
- Workmanship quality
- Innovation in design
- Project challenges and solutions
- Client satisfaction
- Adherence to budget and timeline
Winning a single award is a remarkable achievement, but sustained recognition over the years signifies something even more significant: consistency. Builders who consistently win are those who maintain their high standards through changing market conditions and shifting client demands.
Why Consistency Matters
One of the most important distinctions in the awards space is longevity. Winning an award here or there could be the result of a single fortunate project or an underpriced bid to gain attention. But what happens when the market tightens, or when the volume of projects increases? Builders with shaky foundations in their processes or finances often fall by the wayside.
A builder with a consistent history of accolades, however, demonstrates they have the systems, staff, and expertise to uphold their quality year after year. Their business model is sustainable, and they’ve proven their ability to navigate market fluctuations while delivering excellence.
A Warning About One-Time Winners and Non-Participants
Not all awards are created equal, and not all builders approach them with the same level of seriousness. Be wary of builders who win a single award and are never heard from again. This could signal an unsustainable pricing model or a lack of consistent processes. Similarly, take note of builders who submit to awards frequently but win few, or worse, those who dismiss awards altogether. If a builder avoids putting their work under the scrutiny of their peers and the industry, one must ask: what are they afraid of?
High-quality builders embrace the challenge of competing, knowing that the process holds them to the highest standards. Those who avoid it may lack confidence in their workmanship, their business model, or their ability to compare against their competitors.
Addstyle’s Unparalleled Success
At Addstyle, our track record speaks for itself. Over the past 35 years, we’ve been recognised every year since we first became eligible for awards, a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence. From winning multiple Professional Renovation Builder of the Year titles to customer service and national accolades, we’ve proven that quality and consistency are at the heart of everything we do. You can view a list of our major awards here on our website.
This year, we’re proud to announce our 2024 National Master Builders Renovations/Extensions $300,000 – $450,000 Award for a project in Nedlands. This recognition follows our state win earlier in the year, reaffirming our position as leaders in our field.
Industry awards are not just a measure of a builder’s past success; they’re a reliable indicator of what you can expect in your project. When choosing a builder, look beyond the glossy brochures and sales pitches. Look for a builder with a proven history of excellence—one that thrives on consistency, innovation, and, above all, quality.
