Tradespeople, builders and installers across Northern Ireland who are working towards a more sustainable future are being urged by national builders’ merchant Jewson to enter the inaugural Making Better Homes Awards.

Jewson launched the free-to-enter awards to celebrate those in the industry who are working hard to create homes that are more energy efficient and comfortable.

It comes as new research from Jewson revealed that tradespeople and builders are the most trusted people when it comes to advising homeowners on improvements to make their homes more energy efficient and compliant with Building Regulations.

In the market research with more than 2,000 homeowners, 38% said they would turn to a tradesperson, builder or installer to enhance the efficiency credentials of their home, rather than researching it themselves, using the local council, energy provider, friends and family or an architect or designer.

What’s more, 58% said they’d pay more for a tradesperson, builder or installer with the right knowledge and skills to make their homes more energy efficient, but 47% say it’s difficult to find the right people.

The Making Better Homes Awards scheme is open for entries now, and people can make submissions here.

There are three categories – Best Use of Renewable Energy in a Project, Best Building Fabric in a Project, and Best Sustainable Project of the Year – with prizes available for shortlisted entrants and the national winners.

Matthew Handley, Category Innovation Manager at Jewson, said: “We know what a pivotal role that Belfast’s tradespeople, builders and installers have in improving the nation’s housing stock – whether through retrofit projects or building new homes. 

“That’s why we’ve launched the Making Better Homes Awards, to recognise those who improve the day to day lives of their customers, as well as build properties that are sustainable and comfortable.

“There are three different categories to choose from, and we encourage anyone in Belfast who’s playing a key role in this transformational period for UK housing to enter.”

Entries for the Making Better Homes Awards can be made until the end of November. Finalists will be announced at a later date, and winners will receive a £1,000 prize and industry-wide recognition.