The prestigious awards were officially launched at Stormont in September as part of the FMB’s 75th anniversary celebrations, and Gavin McGuire, Director of FMB NI, is confident that Northern Ireland companies can again highlight the expertise that exists in the province.
“Our members have already proved they are a Master Builder by joining the FMB, so now we want them to prove they’re the best of the best by entering the Master Builder Awards,” he said. “The high standards of work being delivered by FMB members in Northern Ireland deserve to be highlighted, and we are looking forward to seeing our regional winners again take on the best from across the UK.”
For over 75 years, the Federation of Master Builders has championed continuous improvement in building standards, and for over two decades the Master Builder Awards have highlighted the fantastic work carried out by small and medium-sized builders across the UK.
It’s not just pride that’s at stake in the Master Builder Awards! As well as the chance to win a brand-new Vivaro van, courtesy of main sponsor, Vauxhall, you could also benefit from national and local media coverage.
Entry to the Master Builder Awards is free and easy. All you have to do is simply complete the nomination form on the FMB website, upload your photos and ask your client for a supporting statement. You can enter as many projects as you want and you can enter the same project into multiple categories.
Once you have submitted your entry, it will be put forward for regional judging, with the Northern Ireland winners being announced at the Europa Hotel, Belfast, on March 31. The regional winners will then go forward to the national finals, and the winners named at a gala event in London next September.
Categories this year include:
- New Home – For builders demonstrating a strong commitment to building quality new homes.
- Energy Efficiency Project – A Project that demonstrates the best use of energy-efficient measures designed to reduce energy consumption, save on energy bills and minimise the overall impact on the environment. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must be provided.
- Small Renovation Project – A residential/domestic restoration, refurbishment or extension costing up to £150,000.
- Heritage Project – A pre-1919 building which has been renovated, sympathetic to the original style.
- Large Renovation Project – Residential/domestic restoration, refurbishment or extension over £150,000.
- Commercial Project – New build or refurbishment of a commercial building.
- Kitchen or Bathroom Project – A kitchen or bathroom from a new build/renovation project.
- Heavenly Builder – This category recognises builders who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to deliver exceptional service.
- Apprentice of the Year – Presented to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional practical skills in their chosen trade, as well as those special qualities that make them stand out from the crowd.
- Building Merchant of the Year – The Builders Merchant Federation will be looking for a builders’ merchant that has most successfully developed and improved its business since January 2016.
- Lifetime Achievement Award – This award will be presented to a Master Builder who has contributed positively to the building industry, the FMB and/or their community.
For more information on the Master Builder of the Year Award and to download your application pack, visit www.fmb.org.uk
