We are proud to recognize the highest levels of achievement in the residential development and construction industry. DRHBA members are among the most creative builders, renovators, designers, marketers, suppliers and salespeople in the region!
Please ensure before entering for an award that you check the "Which Awards Are You Eligible For?" tab under How to Enter!
Innovation Award
Description
This award recognizes a company, product, or service that demonstrates exceptional creativity and forward-thinking within the residential construction industry. The recipient will have introduced an innovative solution, technology, or process that significantly improves efficiency, sustainability, design, or customer experience. Entries should showcase originality, measurable impact, and the potential to influence future industry practices.
Fields
- Description of member / company - Maximum 500 words.
- Photos
Photographs of the company's's logo and/or advertising material. (jpg, jpeg, gif, png) - References (PDFs)
Minimum of 5 references. - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Originality & Creativity | 30.0% |
| Impact on Industry | 25.0% |
| Practical Application & Effectiveness | 20.0% |
| Sustainability & Environmental Considerations | 15.0% |
| Market Acceptance & Customer Value | 10.0% |
Trade of the Year
Description
Awarded to a trade member for outstanding corporate and/or individual attitude, cooperation, and service to associates and the industry as a whole. Consistency in quality, craftsmanship, and competence are all hallmarks of award-winning trades.
Fields
- Description of member / company - Maximum 500 words.
- Photos
Photographs of the trade's logo and/or advertising material. (jpg, jpeg, gif, png) - References (PDFs)
Minimum of 5 references. - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Quality & Craftsmanship | 30.0% |
| Attitude & Professionalism | 25.0% |
| Reliability & Service | 20.0% |
| Contribution to Industry & Association | 15.0% |
| Innovation & Continuous Improvement | 10.0% |
Community of the Year
Description
The Community of the Year Award is bestowed upon the builder whose project combines the best overall products, site, advertising, promotion, on-site presentation and architectural design. Judges will grade the entries in various different categories and the cumulative total score will be used to determine the Community of the Year.
Requirements
Open to all members!
The written submission should include an outline of why you believe your community is deserving of the Community of the Year Award, including information on the entire community (open spaces, recreation areas, site plan, logo, innovative streetscapes, etc.).
Note: DRHBA reserves the right to perform a project audit for finalists in this category.
Fields
- Description of project - Maximum 500 Words
- Photos
Showing various community aspects including architectural design and site plan. jpg, jpeg, gif, png - Project Name
- Full Address of Site
- Date the project opened for sale
- Who helped you?
Specify person and/or company (must be a DRHBA member company). - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Overall Product Offering | 25.0% |
| Site Planning & Design | 20.0% |
| Architectural Design | 20.0% |
| Advertising & Promotion | 15.0% |
| On-Site Presentation | 10.0% |
| Overall Impression & Cohesion | 10.0% |
Creative Vision Award
Description
This award celebrates a builder who demonstrates exceptional creativity and originality in residential design. The winning project should showcase a distinctive architectural style, innovative use of materials, and thoughtful integration of functionality and aesthetics. Entries should reflect a commitment to elevating design standards and creating homes that inspire and stand out within the industry.
Fields
- Description of member / company - Maximum 500 words.
- Photos
Photographs of the trade's logo and/or advertising material. (jpg, jpeg, gif, png) - References (PDFs)
Minimum of 5 references. - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Originality & Creativity | 30.0% |
| Architectural Style & Aesthetic Appeal | 25.0% |
| Innovative Use of Materials | 20.0% |
| Functionality & Livability | 15.0% |
| Commitment to Elevating Design Standards | 10.0% |
Renovator of the Year
Description
This is awarded to a renovator for their ongoing individual or corporate commitment to supporting channel partners. Key performance factors such as product quality, delivery, reliability, integrity, continuous improvement, product price and overall customer relations are evaluated.
Fields
- Description of company - Maximum 500 words.
- How has your company demonstrated sales and marketing, and customer service excellence that goes above and beyond? - Maximum 500 Words
- Photos
Photos showing various community aspects including architectural design and site plan (jpg, jpeg, gif, png) - What innovations (including but not limited to products, designs, systems, and environmental) does your company/adopt and/or employ and why? - Maximum 500 Words
- How has your company demonstrated community service that goes above and beyond? - Maximum 500 words
- How has your company demonstrated support for the industry (including locally, provincially, nationally)? - Maximum 500 Words
- Why is your company a leader in renovation within Ontario? - Maximum 500 Words
- Who helped you?
Specify person and/or company (must be a DRHBA member company). - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Product Quality & Craftsmanship | 30.0% |
| Reliability & Delivery | 20.0% |
| Integrity & Professionalism | 15.0% |
| Customer Relations | 15.0% |
| Continuous Improvement & Innovation | 10.0% |
| Value & Pricing | 10.0% |
Professional of the Year
Description
Awarded to a professional member for outstanding corporate and/or individual attitude, cooperation, and service to associates and the industry as a whole. Involvement in professional associations, and service and innovation that greatly benefits the residential construction industry are hallmarks of award-winning professionals.
Fields
- Description of member / company - Maximum 500 words.
- List any professional associations you belong to, and any contributions you have made to those associations.
- Describe the service and innovation you have provided and how it assisted the home building industry.
- Describe a project in Durham Region that highlights your skills and expertise.
- Photos
Photographs of the trade's logo and/or advertising material. (jpg, jpeg, gif, png) - References (PDFs)
Minimum of 5 references. - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Attitude & Professionalism | 30.0% |
| Cooperation & Service to Industry | 25.0% |
| Involvement in Professional Associations | 20.0% |
| Innovation & Leadership | 15.0% |
| Impact & Contribution | 10.0% |
Green Builder of the Year
Description
This award highlights the Home Building Company that raises the bar for the rest of the industry through its leadership in improving the environment, energy efficiency, deep greening, and overall technical image of the industry. This award will be given to the company that is pushing the limits to help reduce the impact of the building and development sector on the environment, in particular through energy-efficiency and low carbon construction techniques.
Fields
- Description of project - Maximum 500 Words
- Photos
Photographs showing various community aspects including architectural design. jpg, jpeg, gif, png - Who helped you?
Specify person and/or company (must be a DRHBA member company). - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Environmental Leadership & Commitment | 30.0% |
| Energy Efficiency & Low-Carbon Construction | 25.0% |
| Innovation in Green Building | 20.0% |
| Impact on Industry Image & Education | 15.0% |
| Overall Project Execution & Measurable Results | 10.0% |
Outstanding Member Company
Description
This award recognizes a member company that exemplifies exceptional engagement and support within the Durham Region Home Builders' Association. The recipient demonstrates a strong commitment to the association through active participation in events, seminars, and volunteer initiatives, as well as contributions as a sponsor. This award celebrates companies that go above and beyond to strengthen the DRHBA community and shine a light on collaboration and leadership in our industry.
Requirements
Open to all members!
Fields
- Description of project - Maximum 500 Words
- Photos
Photographs showing various community aspects including architectural design. jpg, jpeg, gif, png - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Engagement in DRHBA Activities | 30.0% |
| Support Through Sponsorship & Contributions | 25.0% |
| Volunteerism & Leadership | 20.0% |
| Promotion of DRHBA & Industry Values | 15.0% |
| Collaboration & Positive Impact | 10.0% |
Community Involvement Award
Description
This award honors a member who goes above and beyond to make a positive impact in Durham Region. The recipient demonstrates outstanding commitment to community engagement through charitable initiatives, volunteerism, partnerships, or programs that strengthen local connections. By shining a light on Durham, this award celebrates those who lead with generosity and inspire others to build a stronger, more vibrant community.
Fields
- Description of project - Maximum 500 Words
- Photos
Photographs showing various community aspects including architectural design. jpg, jpeg, gif, png - Who helped you?
Specify person and/or company (must be a DRHBA member company). - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Impact on Community | 30.0% |
| Commitment & Consistency | 25.0% |
| Creativity & Innovation in Engagement | 15.0% |
| Collaboration & Partnerships | 15.0% |
| Promotion of Durham Region & Industry Values | 15.0% |
People's Choice Award
Description
Finalists for the DRHBA People's Choice award are based upon the finalists for the DRHBA Builder of the Year (Small Volume and Large Volume), Renovator of the Year, Supplier or Manufacturer of the Year, and Trade of the Year. Finalists from the listed categories are automatically entered into the People's Choice Award. DRHBA members and the public are welcome to vote for the DRHBA People's Choice winner once finalists are announced in March.
Requirements
How it Works:
• Once judging is complete and finalist are announced a link will be placed on the DRHBA website for DRHBA members and the public to vote. It is asked that each person only votes once.
• Submitters are not required to apply, submit, or pay for People's Choice as it is based on if they become a finalist in one of the categories listed above.
• Voting will open once finalists are released. Voting will close April 24, 2026.
Fields
- Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Builder Sales Team of the Year
Description
This is awarded to a sales team who excelled in performance and professionalism and made a meaningful contribution to the performance of the organization as a whole. Exemplary sales success, civic activity and industry involvement are critical aspects of consideration.
Fields
- Description of team - Maximum 500 words
- Photos
Photo types that are accepted: jpg, jpeg, gif, png - References (PDF)
This section is only required for an external sales team. If you are a builder and your sales team is internal you do not need to provide references. - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Sales Performance & Contribution to Organization | 40.0% |
| Professionalism & Customer Service | 20.0% |
| Teamwork & Collaboration | 15.0% |
| Industry Involvement & Civic Activity | 15.0% |
| Innovation in Sales Strategies | 10.0% |
Sales Professional of the Year
Description
This award recognizes outstanding achievement in sales within the residential construction industry. Open to all DRHBA members, this category celebrates individuals or teams who demonstrate exceptional sales performance, strategic thinking, and customer-focused service. The recipient exemplifies professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to driving growth and success in Durham Region's housing market.
Fields
- Description of team - Maximum 500 words
- Photos
Photo types that are accepted: jpg, jpeg, gif, png - References (PDF)
This section is only required for an external sales team. If you are a builder and your sales team is internal you do not need to provide references. - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Sales Performance & Results | 40.0% |
| Customer Service & Relationship Management | 20.0% |
| Strategic Thinking & Innovation in Sales | 15.0% |
| Professionalism & Integrity | 15.0% |
| Contribution to Team & Community | 10.0% |
Excellence in Custom Built Home
Description
This award honors a builder, architect, or designer who has delivered an exceptional custom-built home that exemplifies superior craftsmanship, innovative design, and attention to detail. A custom home is defined as: A single, detached dwelling. Constructed and fully completed to qualify. A one-of-a-kind design, not a minor modification of a production home. Has been built only once.
Requirements
Fields
- Description of project
- Photos
Maximum of 10 photographs/images/renderings showing interior, exterior and surroundings (as applicable). jpg, jpeg, gif, png - Clean copy of floor plan (PDFs)
- Project Name
- Address
- Date the project was started and completed
- Who helped you?
Specify person and/or company (must be a DRHBA member company). - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo to showcase your product. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Architectural Design & Originality | 30.0% |
| Quality of Construction & Craftsmanship | 25.0% |
| Functionality & Livability | 20.0% |
| Innovation in Features & Materials | 15.0% |
| Overall Impression & Client Satisfaction | 10.0% |
Excellence in Marketing Campaign
Description
This is awarded to a member company who excelled in performance and professionalism and made a meaningful contribution to the performance of the organization as a whole. Exemplary sales success, civic activity and industry involvement are critical aspects of consideration.
Fields
- Description of campaign - Maximum 500 words
- Purpose of campaign - Maximum 500 words
- Photos
Photo types that are accepted: jpg, jpeg, gif, png - References (PDF)
This section is only required for an external campaign. If you are a builder and your campaign is internal you do not need to provide references. - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Originality | 30.0% |
| Strategy & Execution | 25.0% |
| Impact on Sales & Organizational Performance | 20.0% |
| Professionalism & Presentation | 15.0% |
| Industry & Community Engagement | 10.0% |
Excellence in Renovation Project
Description
This award recognizes a DRHBA member who has delivered an outstanding renovation or addition project that exemplifies superior craftsmanship, design, and functionality. Eligible projects must be fully completed and demonstrate exceptional attention to detail, innovative solutions, and a seamless integration of new and existing spaces.
Requirements
Definition of Actual Cost:
The actual cost refers to the total amount the homeowner has spent to finish the renovation or addition, including all payments made—not just costs billed by the renovator.
This award celebrates projects that elevate the homeowner experience while showcasing professionalism, creativity, and quality in residential renovation.
Fields
- Description of project - Maximum 500 Words
- Photos
showing before and after (jpg, jpeg, gif, png) - Clean copy of floor plan (PDF)
- Project Name
- Address
- Date the project was started and completed
- Who helped you?
Specify person and/or company (must be a DRHBA member company). - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo to showcase your product. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Design & Creativity | 30.0% |
| Quality of Workmanship & Craftsmanship | 25.0% |
| Functionality & Practicality | 20.0% |
| Value for Actual Cost | 15.0% |
| Overall Impression & Client Satisfaction | 10.0% |
Supplier or Manufacturer of the Year
Description
This is awarded to a supplier or manufacturer for their ongoing individual or corporate commitment to supporting channel partners. Key performance factors such as product quality, delivery, reliability, integrity, continuous improvement, product price and overall customer relations are evaluated.
Fields
- Description of supplier / manufacturer- Maximum 500 Words
- Photos
Photographs of the supplier/manufacturer's logo and/or advertising material. jpg, jpeg, gif, png - References
PDF Minimum of 5 references - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Product quality | 30.0% |
| Delivery & Reliability | 20.0% |
| Integrity & Professionalism | 15.0% |
| Customer Relations & Support | 15.0% |
| Continuous Improvement & Innovation | 10.0% |
| Value & Pricing | 10.0% |
Builder of the Year – Large Volume
Description
This award recognizes a builder who demonstrates exceptional achievement, professionalism, and leadership in the residential construction industry. Eligible builders must produce an annual unit volume of 51 or more homes. The recipient exemplifies excellence in quality, customer service, innovation, and community involvement, while making a significant contribution to the growth and reputation of Durham Region's housing market. This award celebrates builders who set the benchmark for success and integrity in large-scale home building.
Requirements
Large Volume Builders will produce an annual unit volume of 51 or more.
Fields
- Description of company - Maximum 500 Words
- How has your company demonstrated sales and marketing, and customer service excellence that goes above and beyond? - Maximum 500 Words
- Photos
Various community aspects including architectural design and site plan. jpg, jpeg, gif, png - What innovations (including but not limited to products, designs, systems, and environmental) does your company/adopt and/or employ and why? - Maximum 500 Words
- Total closed sales for 2024
- How has your company demonstrated community service that goes above and beyond? - Maximum 500 words
- How has your company demonstrated support for the industry (including locally, provincially, nationally) - Maximum 500 Words
- Why is your company a leader in the building industry within Ontario? - Maximum 500 Words
- Who helped you?
Specify person and/or company (must be a DRHBA member company). - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Quality of Construction & Craftsmanship | 30.0% |
| Customer Service & Satisfaction | 20.0% |
| Innovation & Design Excellence | 15.0% |
| Community & Industry Involvement | 15.0% |
| Business Performance & Professionalism | 10.0% |
| Sustainability & Environmental Practices | 10.0% |
Builder of the Year – Small Volume
Description
This award recognizes a builder who demonstrates exceptional achievement, professionalism, and leadership in the residential construction industry. Eligible builders must produce an annual unit volume of 50 or fewer homes. The recipient exemplifies excellence in quality, customer service, innovation, and community involvement, while making a significant contribution to the growth and reputation of Durham Region's housing market. This award celebrates builders who set the benchmark for success and integrity in small-scale home building.
Requirements
Small Volume Builders will produce an annual unit volume of 50 or less.
Fields
- Description of company - Maximum 500 Words
- How has your company demonstrated sales and marketing, and customer service excellence that goes above and beyond? - Maximum 500 Words
- Photos
Showing various community aspects including architectural design and site plan. jpg, jpeg, gif, png - Photos
Photos showing various community aspects including architectural design and site plan (jpg, jpeg, gif, png) - What innovations (including but not limited to products, designs, systems, and environmental) does your company/adopt and/or employ and why? - Maximum 500 Words
- Total closed sales for 2024
- How has your company demonstrated community service that goes above and beyond? - Maximum 500 words
- How has your company demonstrated support for the industry (including locally, provincially, nationally) - Maximum 500 Words
- Why is your company a leader in the building industry within Ontario? - Maximum 500 Words
- Who helped you?
Specify person and/or company (must be a DRHBA member company). - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Quality of Construction & Craftsmanship | 30.0% |
| Customer Service & Satisfaction | 20.0% |
| Innovation & Design Excellence | 15.0% |
| Community & Industry Involvement | 15.0% |
| Business Performance & Professionalism | 10.0% |
| Sustainability & Environmental Practices | 10.0% |
Excellence in Production Built Home - Attached
Description
This award recognizes a builder who has delivered an outstanding attached production-built home that exemplifies superior design, quality, and functionality. Eligible homes must be part of a production-built community and feature attached configurations such as townhomes, duplexes, or semi-detached units. The winning project should demonstrate excellence in architectural appeal, craftsmanship, and livability, while meeting the needs of today's homeowners and setting a high standard for residential development in Durham Region.
Fields
- Description of project - Maximum 500 Words
- Photos
Photographs/images/renderings showing interior, exterior and surroundings (as applicable). jpg, jpeg, gif, png - Clean copy of floor plan (PDFs)
- Image of marketing site plan - PDF
- Project name
- Address
- Date the project opened for sale
- Success
number of homes/units available and number of units sold - Who helped you?
Specify person and/or company (must be a DRHBA member company). - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo to showcase your product. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Architectural Design & Curb Appeal | 25.0% |
| Quality of Construction & Craftsmanship | 20.0% |
| Functionality, Layout & Livability | 20.0% |
| Buyer Value & Market Fit | 15.0% |
| Sustainability & Building Performance | 10.0% |
| Community Integration & On-Site Presentation | 10.0% |
Excellence in Production Built Home - Single Detached
Description
This award recognizes a builder who has delivered an exceptional single detached production-built home that exemplifies superior design, quality, and functionality. Eligible homes must be part of a production-built community and represent the highest standards in architectural appeal, craftsmanship, and livability. The winning project should demonstrate thoughtful design, efficient use of space, and attention to detail, while meeting the needs of today's homeowners and setting a benchmark for excellence in Durham Region's residential market.
Fields
- Description of project - Maximum 500 Words
- Photos
Photographs/images/renderings showing interior, exterior and surroundings (as applicable). - Clean copy of floor plan (PDFs)
- Image of marketing site plan
- Project name
- Full address
- Date the project opened for sale
- Who helped you?
Specify person and/or company (must be a DRHBA member company). - Link to video (optional):
You may add a link to a video you have uploaded to YouTube or Vimeo to showcase your product. - Design Credit
Name the company or companies (max of 2) who assisted you in the presentation of your entry. Must be a DRHBA member company.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Architectural Design & Curb Appeal | 25.0% |
| Quality of Construction & Craftsmanship | 20.0% |
| Interior Layout & Livability | 20.0% |
| Buyer Value & Market Fit | 15.0% |
| Sustainability & Building Performance | 10.0% |
| On-Site Presentation & Community Integration | 10.0% |
