Profile Summer 2014

pro f il e 5 A pril 2 014

c o n te n t sAPRIL 2014 • VOLUME 21 • ISSUE 10

ASSOCIATION INFORMATION 7 Message from the President, CHBA – Calgary Region 9 Message from the CEO, CHBA – Calgary Region11 Message from the President,

CHBA – Alberta 12 Events Calendar13 Inclusionary zoning16 New and Cancelled Members

ASSOCIATION EVENTS14 Breakfasts, lunches and seminars19 Corporate sponsors

COVER FEATURE: SAM COVER AGE20 2013 SAM Awards Gala –

a night to remember22 SAM winners’ list25 Thank you sponsors26 Customer satisfaction celebrated

at the 2013 SAM Awards28 View from the top is all

about the customers

INDUSTRY NEWS31 The power of integrated design 32 Building a better tomorrow 33 Residential ePermits34 Building for the future35 Home builders help out38 Kitchen trends

20

Cover photography by Don Molyneaux

CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION – CALGARY REGION represents professionals in the housing industry. CHBA – Calgary Region has been in existence for over 60 years and is a network of professionals that manages industry issues to provide value to our members.

100-7326 10 St. N.E., Calgary, AB, T2E 8W1Tel: 403.235.1911; Fax: 403.248.1272E-mail: [email protected]: www.chbacalgary.com

Donna K. Moore | Chief Executive Officer [email protected]

Val Veldhuyzen | Director, Finance and [email protected]

Amie Blanchette | Director, Government [email protected]

David Bears | Director, [email protected]

Kathy McCormick | Profile Editor, Director, [email protected]

Habiba Gulnaz-Khalid | Accounting [email protected]

Kailey Mitchell | Event [email protected]

Deanna McArthur | Communications [email protected]

Deb Mansfield | Executive [email protected]

PUBLISHED BY Source Media Group Corp. 207, 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, AB T2H 0J9. Tel 403.532.3101, Toll free 1.888.932.3101 Fax 403.532.3109 email: [email protected]: www.sourcemediagroup.ca

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© 2014 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publishers. Source Media Group agrees to advertise on behalf of the advertiser without responsibility for claims or misinformation made by the advertiser and acts only as an advertising medium. Source Media Group reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion.

Profile is published quarterly per annum and is distributed to every member of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region.

We’d love to hear from you…Letters to the editor, article suggestions, columns, topics and opinions are all

welcome and encouraged! Please nail us a notice, saw us a yarn, measure us

a metre of your thoughts. We’ll print the best ones in the next issue.

Contact Kathy McCormick, Director, Communications

at 403.730.4255 or [email protected]

Need to change your contact name or address? Let us know at [email protected]!

7

38



President’s message | ASSOCIATION INFORMATION

By Douglas Whitney president, Canadian Home Buiders’ Association – Calgary region

Change is in the wind

Little did we know that the world politics and our own drama with our provincial leader would unfold, changing the way the world order had been. And we have many other things impacting the way we do business today, including within our own organization.

We have two new important initiatives we are working on with our partners at UDI – Calgary. While still very preliminary, here is a brief summary — and you can be assured we will continually update you as things unfold.

Firstly, we are in the planning stages of a comprehensive new Engagement Campaign that our industry members have generously supported and which we believe will have a positive impact on our industry in future.

Secondly, the boards of both organizations have embarked on a joint venture to evaluate current mandates and structures of CHBA – Calgary Region and UDI – Calgary organizations and membership services and what that may look like in future.

Watch for more as details are solidified.There’s much more to talk about starting

with my sincere congratulations to all the finalists and winners of the 2013 SAM Awards. When you see the quality of workmanship, the outstanding creativity and the dedication to building — and rebuilding — our city, I am so proud to be part of this great industry. The SAM Award

winners are truly the best of the best and I salute them.

Here are some of the other changes we have been — or shortly will be — dealing with this year:• Locally, the implementation of

some of the goals of the Municipal Development Plan (MDP), including the first look at the sequenced list that aligns new growth with the city’s ability to pay for the infrastructure to support it.

• The opening of the Municipal Government Act, which could include a new city charter for Calgary and Edmonton, changing the way the province and city regulate some aspects of living or working in the big city.

• The implementation as of February 1 of the New Home Buyer Protection Act, making warranty coverage mandatory for new homes and condos.

• Changes to various aspects of the Building Codes, again impacting the way we do business.

• Updates to the Condo Act and its implications for the building industry.

• And talk of the next development agreement between the residential land developers (Urban Development Institute) and the city, which comes due next year.

And that’s just a sampling of the areas

we are working on to ensure we have a voice.

We have strong representation at the table as stakeholders with a dedicated staff member and volunteers offering expertise, opinions and guidance on issues of importance to our businesses and our city. This collaborative approach to doing business has made us a valuable partner with the changing governments for more than 65 years.

At the same time, we are continually trying to improve, trying to ensure our voice is heard and trying to advocate for more choice for more people in more places.

That means we are working on some areas that we believe are important to the future of our city. Things such as secondary suites, easier and more plentiful

permitted uses for multi-family units in both the established communities and

suburbs, and an adequate supply of serviced lots in new communities

to foster growth.

It’s hard to believe that the first quarter of 2014 is already over — and so much has changed.



ceo’s message | ASSOCIATION INFORMATION

By Donna Moore Ceo, Canadian Home Buiders’ Association – Calgary region

As our president, Doug Whitney, has already said, every finalist and winner deserves huge congratulations for a job so well done, in spite of the hard year we went through in 2013. Thank-you to everyone for their dedication, hard work and courage last year.

Competing in the annual SAM Awards means more than being the best at what you do; it’s not just about the challenge and fun of competition the industry is known for; and it certainly is more than simply adding another silver goose to the awards’ shelf.

Everyone loves to win, but that is just the beginning of the value our SAM Awards offer our members.

It’s a way to show your team that they are, indeed, doing a great job which is recognized by their own industry peers — and it’s a mark of excellence that homebuyers look for when deciding on which home or neighbourhood, which builder, renovator or supplier they will deal with when they are looking to change their lifestyle.

And that message gets out to everyone

It is with great pleasure — and pride — that we present our tribute to our 2013 SAM Award winners in this issue of Profile. The award gala itself was a spectacular night of celebrating our best, and we were so honoured to be able to plan this special occasion with so many of our friends and colleagues.

in a positive way. Thank-you to our print media members, Calgary Herald and Calgary Sun, for their platinum sponsorship. Their involvement meant news stories leading up to the awards in both papers, a SAM Awards Finalist magazine that went out to all the people within the Sun’s circulation, pre-SAM excitement building up to the awards from other news stories in other sections of the papers and online, and extensive coverage afterwards.

Our other media partners, too, have helped spread the word about the excellence, creativity and accomplishments of our members — and it is added value for your businesses.

In addition, we have had tremendous interest in our SAM Awards’ finalist and winners listing on our website — over 3,489 visits within February and March for both finalists and winners — and through the many Twitter posts and Facebook items. We created a fun #SAMSelfie Twitter handle as a take-off of the Academy Awards when Ellen DeGeneres posted the famous selfie of the actors — and it, too, created

buzz within the industry and in the general public. In fact, our Twitter handle (@chbacalgary) and hashtags (#SAMCalgary and #SAMSelfie) were trending in Calgary that night — a huge accomplishment. And #SAMSelfie was so popular, it actually trended across Canada, meaning more people were talking about it (or taking photos and posting) than ANY other topic in Canada. That is truly impressive.

What a great way to bring your company to the public in a fun, positive way.

SAM finalists and winners, of course, also have the privilege of promoting their win in their show homes and in their PR campaigns, their ads, and with their customers and prospective homebuyers.

There isn’t a better way to highlight your business and this industry — one we are all proud to be part of.

Thank-you to everyone who helped make this year’s SAM Awards and Gala the best it could be — and if you weren’t part of it this year, I encourage you to submit your entries for the next SAM Gala — the 28th year we have celebrated our industry.

Twenty-seven years of excellence!



New neighbours

There are also challenges, as the cyclical relationship of a growing province needing workers and those workers needing a place to live requires more workers to build those houses. We have worked hard as an industry to keep on top of shifts in the economy and demographics over the years, building businesses to stand the test of time and leave our mark on the province.

It is incumbent upon us to keep our eyes on trends as they arise. Recently, Statistics Canada released its quarterly population estimates for Canada and the provinces. What is key for the new housing industry in Alberta is the relative strength of net migration.

Alberta continued to lead all provinces in terms of yearly growth (+3.3 per cent) in 2013, followed by Saskatchewan (+1.8 per cent). Alberta was the province with the highest net gain in interprovincial migration in 2013 (+43,100). However, compared to the fourth quarter in 2012, Alberta’s net interprovincial migration in 2013 was reduced by half. It remained, however, the province showing the highest net gain in interprovincial migration (+5,700).

Overall, increases in net international migration were offset by lower levels of inter-provincial migration during the fourth quarter. So, although Alberta continued to lead all provinces in population growth in

the final months of 2013, the rate of growth slowed compared with the last three months of 2012 due to fewer newcomers from other provinces.

As of January 1, 2014, the population of Alberta was estimated at 4,082,600, an increase of 21,900 (+0.5 per cent) from October 1, 2013. Since the first quarter of 2011, Alberta has continuously led all provinces in terms of population growth rate. While the major factor of this province’s population growth was net international migration (+8,700), both natural increase (+7,400) and net interprovincial migration (+5,700) also contributed.

Due to high level of immigration (+8,800) and net flow of non-permanent residents (+1,100), Alberta’s net inflow of international migration was the highest for a fourth quarter since 1971. In fact, Alberta was the only jurisdiction in Canada that posted a positive net flow of non-permanent residents over the last quarter of 2013. Alberta remained the province showing the highest net gain in interprovincial migration (+5,700). A large portion

of these gains resulted from exchanges with Ontario (+2,600), Quebec (+1,000) and British Columbia (+900).

This is an important trend for both industry and government to monitor. There is a lot of political sensitivity regarding the issues of immigration and unemployment in other parts of Canada. Government has often pressed industry to recruit more Canadians — but there simply are not enough workers out there to fill Alberta’s needs. Even if a great deal more Canadians flocked to Alberta, this would increase skilled labour shortages in other parts of the country where shifts in demographics mean that despite a lack of growth, retirements are thinning out the labour force. Bringing new immigrants to Alberta and retaining them as long-term members of our communities is key to continued economic prosperity both in Alberta and across the country.

A growing Alberta is a great opportunity for CHBA – Alberta members. Welcoming newcomers to the communities we build is a primary driver of the residential construction industry.

cHBa – alBerta | ASSOCIATION INFORMATION

By Stephen Amonson president, Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Alberta

Strong net migration key to Alberta’s success


MAY 2014*Education Month

JUNE 2014*Education Month

EVENTS CALENDAR

*Subject to change

8 Professional Development

Breakfast #1 Topic: Business Continuity

10 RenoMark™ Renovation

& CHBA – Calgary Region Infill Tour

14 Dinner Meeting,

Student House Awards Keynote Speaker: Hon. Doug Horner, Minister of Finance Coast Plaza Hotel


Breakfast #2 Topic: Succession Planning

29 Builder Breakfast

Glenmore Inn

5 TO JUNE 7:

Fairmont Golf Classic Fairmont Hot Springs


Breakfast #3, Topic: TBD

18 Annual General Meeting,

Dinner Meeting (Presidential Tribute & Volunteer Awards) Coast Plaza Hotel

26 Builder Breakfast

Glenmore Inn

For more information visit www.chbacalgary.com


Given the resulting media coverage on this issue, there are clearly differing opinions about the role our industry should play and what we currently contribute.

The suggestion was made that builders should be required to address the affordable housing shortage through a process called Inclusionary Zoning. This traditionally means a builder/developer is required to provide a percentage of units in their at-market project for subsidized housing. In response to this suggestion, we developed a tool to help educate our policy makers and the general public about the impact Inclusionary Zoning can have on homebuyers and the market overall.

While Inclusionary Zoning is not currently allowed under our existing Municipal Government Act, we know the provincial government is in the midst of reviewing this legislation. CHBA – Calgary Region will be working closely with CHBA – Alberta throughout the review process and attending local stakeholder sessions with the government to ensure our voice is heard on this important issue.

Inclusionary zoning

Affordable housing has become a hot topic of late. City council is in the midst of creating a strategy to address this growing problem.

cHBa – c algary region | ASSOCIATION INFORMATION

By Amie Blanchette Director, Government Affairs, CHBA – Calgary region project Manager, VoteCalgary

Is it the answer to subsidized housing?


Breakfasts, lunches and seminarsA great way to connect with fellow industry professionals

Builder BreakfastsCHBA – Calgary Region provided a lineup of important educational Builder Breakfasts, which kept members up-to-date on all aspects of the residential construction industry. January’s Builder Breakfast focused on the association’s dedication to safety with keynote speaker Bev Preece from the Alberta Construction Association covering upcoming changes to the Certificate of Recognition (COR) and Small Employer Certificate of Recognition (SECOR) programs. James Wilson from Workers’ Compensation

Board also spoke on the Partnerships in Injury Reduction (PIR) program and its importance for our members.

February’s Builder Breakfast brought experts all the way from British Columbia to talk about moisture problems and solutions. Jan Rasilainen, assistant vice-president of technical services/new home warranty at Travelers Canada, gave those in attendance a firsthand account of the many lessons learned when the leaky condo crisis hit, how the industry suffered a major hit to its credibility and the significant changes that have occurred since to ensure future buildings are adequately protected from the elements. Special thanks to Siding Contractors Association of Alberta for sponsoring this Builder Breakfast.

New to CHBA – Calgary Region this year is the opportunity to sponsor these very popular learning sessions. If you are interested in sponsoring a Builder Breakfast contact David Bears, [email protected].

ASSOCIATION EVENTS

How to Hire a renovator seminarWith flood remediation still underway and the spring renovation season just around the corner, it was a perfect time to educate homeowners on how to hire a contractor to ensure that renovation, remodeling, retrofitting, and remediation are done properly. The free seminar which promoted our RenoMark™ program and its members included speakers from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, the Better Business Bureau, SAIT Polytechnic, Canada Revenue Agency, and the City of Calgary Development and Building Approvals. Special thanks to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Gemini Group Inc., Kurmak Builders Inc., Litwiller Developments, Lynn Donaldson & Associates, and Wilson Homes and Renos for sponsoring this important event.

Thank You sponsors!

Thank You sponsor!


Breakfasts, lunches and seminarsmentorsHip luncHeonThe Young Guns held their popular mentorship luncheon Wednesday, March 5 where the next generation of leaders had the opportunity to talk with many of the industry leaders. Special thanks to all of the mentors who attended: Wayne Copeland, Double R Building Products; Tim Logel, Cardel Lifestyles; Ryan Scott, Avalon Master Builder; Deep Shergill, Prominent Homes; Larry Thomson, Calbridge Homes; and Charron Ungar, Homes by Avi Urban (Calgary).

GrowtH manaGement framework memBers luncHeonWhere new suburban growth will take place was brought into the spotlight in March when city council debated the next steps in managing growth. This very important topic for our members

was discussed at a special luncheon featuring Ryan vanderputten, manager, corporate growth management with the City of Calgary. Members received an update on the Growth Management Framework and what to expect for the next steps, including the much-talked-about priority sequencing of new developments. Special thanks to Homes by Us for sponsoring this important luncheon.

ASSOCIATION EVENTS

Thank You sponsor!

sam awards GalaOver 1,650 members and guests attended the biggest event of the year where the best-of-the-best in the residential construction industry were named. Congratulations to all of the winners. Take a look at pages 20-30 for full coverage of this glam filled night. Special thanks to all of the SAM Awards sponsors who made this important event possible. See page 25 for a full list of sponsors.

New members at the growth management framework luncheon

with Doug Whitney, CHBA – Calgary Region president (centre)


NE W MEMBERS

n JANUARY 2014

Cardinal Capital Management Inc. rep: Kim Gibson Service/professional

Electrim Development Ltd. Doing Business As (DBA) District Homes rep: Marian Minorczyk Builder

Home Garden Business Ltd. rep: Hoa Tran Supplier/Manufacturer/Trade

Kerridge Concrete Ltd. rep: ivar Alvarez Supplier/Manufacturer/Trade

Manor House Crafted Homes Inc. rep: Chris Hone Builder

Modify Homes Corp. rep: Deanna Taylor renovator

Northern Property REIT rep: Steven James Developer

Qualex-Landmark Western Inc. rep: Cristin Tolfree Builder

Royal Design Centre rep: Devinder Gill Supplier/Manufacturer/Trade

Rusch Projects 2010 Ltd. rep: oliver Brown Builder

Sandstone Realty Associate Ltd. DBA Sandstone Associates rep: Mike leeds renovator

Selkirk Stone Distributors Ltd. rep: Terry Hagen Supplier/Manufacturer/Trade

ASSOCIATION INFORMATION |

Urban Roofing rep: Greg pender Supplier/Manufacturer/Trade

Fontile Calgary Corporation DBA Porcelanosa rep: James Kershaw Supplier/Manufacturer/Trade

n FEBRUARY 2014

Caesarstone rep: Mary-Jo lough Supply/Manufacturer/Trade

Cloverdale Paint Inc. rep: Darlene ell Supply/Manufacturer/Trade

HGC Construction Ltd. DBA Moderno Homes rep: Michael palmer Builder

Newland Construction Limited rep: Kevin Brookes Builder

Radiant Custom Homes Inc. rep: Jackie Balson Builder

Sunview Custom Homes Ltd. rep: Sunny Sharma Builder

n JANUARY 2014Western financial Group

n FEBRUARY 2014Brighton interiors inc. fab pads inc. Gienow Windows Metropolitan Hardwood floors inc. Nuera platinum (Canada) ltd. plumb-line residential Services inc. SKYliNe Building envelope Solutions (CGY) inc.

CANCELLED MEMBERS

new and c ancelled memBers




2013-2014 corPor ate sPonsors | ASSOCIATION INFORMATION

Thank-you corporate sponsors 2013-2014

Thank you sponsors!Without Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region Corporate Sponsors, we couldn’t provide the many services, events, information, and advocacy for our members that we do.

the 2013 sam awards Gala really highlighted the great industry we are in — an industry that fills us with pride. more than 1,650 people attended the spectacular event that honoured the winners, finalists and our members.

Thanks to the sponsors, the people who attended and the great entertainment for a night to remember.

a special thanks to all who worked tirelessly and unselfishly throughout the flood last year – we hope you enjoyed the tribute to our volunteer members.

and we congratulate all the winners and finalists who built such amazing homes and neighbourhoods, in spite of the challenges. we had a record number of submissions from so many of our members in every category.

we are proud and grateful.see you next year!

2013 SAM Awards Gala – a night to remember

2013 SAM AWARDS GALA - A NIGhT TO REMEMbER


Thanks for coming

Photography by Crystal Image Photography and Don Molyneaux

#SAMSelfies


Congratsto winners

Proud of our sponsors

#SAMSelfies


GRAND SAM WINNERS

COVER FEATURE: SAM AWARDS 2013 WINNERSCOVER FEATURE: SAM AWARDS 2013 WINNERS

MULTI-FAMILY hOME AWARDS

Best Town Home – up to $294,999Sponsored by CustomerInsightTRUMAN HOMESevolve townhomes, 5 skyview Point Heath ne, calgary

Best Town Home - $295,000-$349,999Sponsored by Superior CabinetsSTREETSIDE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONevanston square, 103 evanston square nw, calgary

Best Town Home - $350,000 and overSponsored by Classic Kitchens & Cabinets Ltd.JAYMAN GROUP OF COMPANIESthe westwynd in riverreach, 12 riviera way, cochrane

MULTI-FAMILY DESIGN AWARDS

Best New DesignApartment Style Condo up to 899 sq. ft.Sponsored by All Weather Windows Ltd.QUALEX-LANDMARK WESTERN INC.mark on tenth – e Plan, 1120 – 10th avenue sw, calgary

Best New DesignApartment Style Condo 900 sq. ft. and overSponsored by Mattamy HomesQUALEX-LANDMARK WESTERN INC.mark on tenth – K Plan, 1120 – 10th avenue sw, calgary

Best New DesignVilla/Duplex/Townhome up to 1,199 sq. ft.Sponsored by All Weather Windows Ltd.JAYMAN MODUS, A DIVISION OF JAYMAN GROUP OF COMPANIESthe esprit ii, 211 mahogany way se, calgary

Best New DesignVilla/Duplex/Townhome 1,200 sq. ft. and overSponsored by Renfrew Insurance Ltd.CALBRIDGE 2010 LTD.the silverton, 4 cranbrook landing se, calgary

MULTI-FAMILY COMMUNITY AWARDS

Best Multi-Family CommunitySponsored by Timber Tech Truss Inc.HOMES BY AVI URBAN (2006) INC.the enclave at castle Keep, calgary

Best Villa / Duplex – up to $349,999Sponsored by United Drywall Ltd.BEYOND HOMESProject b65, Private

Best Villa / Duplex - $350,000 and over Sponsored by I-XL Masonry Supplies Ltd.ALBI HOMES LTD. Vistas of tuscany Unit 3, 347 tuscany estates rise nw, calgary

Best Apartment-Style CondoSponsored by NORR Architects Engineers PlannersREMINGTON DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONchampagne suite #405, Private

Homes by Avi Urban

ADVERTISING & MARKETING AWARDS

Best Billboard (Indoor/Outdoor)Sponsored by Prominent Homes Ltd.CALBRIDGE 2010 LTD.move in date guaranteed | move-in-itus Billboard

Best Direct Mail PieceSponsored by Stepper Custom Homes Inc.ICON STONE & TILEsimpler & Better stone Program

Best BrochureSponsored by Watermark Development LPALBI HOMES LTD.Vistas Brochure

Best Print AdSponsored by Stonetile (Canada) Ltd.DOUGLAS HOMES LTD.Find your Perfect Fit

Best Moving MediaSponsored by Rockford Developments Inc.LUX WINDOWS & GLASS LTD.lux – Brand television commercial

Best Audio MediaTRUMAN HOMESno excuses

Best WebsiteSponsored by Kon-Strux Developments Inc.MORRISON HOMESmorrison website

Janine Coughlin Marketing Campaign of the YearSponsored by WALL2WALL Media Inc.HOPEWELL RESIDENTIAL MANAGEMENT LPmahogany lakefront grand opening

DEVELOPER AWARDS

Show Home Parade of the YearSponsored by Sabal Homes LPHOPEWELL RESIDENTIAL MANAGEMENT LPlakeFront show Home Parade, mahogany, calgary

Partner of the YearSponsored by NuVista Homes Ltd.

PHI SYSTEMS INC.

Builder of MeritSponsored by Aviva Canada Inc. & National Home Warranty Group Inc.

EMPIRE CUSTOM HOMES LIMITED

builder of the YearSponsored by Genstar Development Company

MORRISON HOMES

Renovator of the YearSponsored by JELD-WEN Windows & Doors

ALBI RENOVA LTD.

Multi-Family builder of the YearSponsored by Hopewell Residential

JAYMAN GROUP OF COMPANIES

Hopewell ResidentialMahogany, Calgary

Community of the Year – City of CalgarySponsored by Homes by Avi (Calgary) Inc.HOPEWELL RESIDENTIAL MANAGEMENT LPmahogany, calgary

Community of the Year – Calgary RegionSponsored by Shane Homes Ltd.WATERMARK DEVELOPMENT LPwatermark at Bearspaw, rocky View county

New Community of the YearSponsored by Shane Homes Ltd.HERITAGE POINTE PROPERTIES INC.artesia, dewinton


The Cézanne by McKinley Masters

COVER FEATURE: SAM AWARDS 2013 WINNERS

SALES AChIEVEMENT AWARDS

Sales Team of the Year – Single FamilySponsored by Landmark Homes (Calgary) Inc.SABAL HOMES LPPeter skolaude, crystal Benner, Jesse marshall, stacy Johnson, olja Uljarevic, andrew Bogues - mahogany

Sales Team of the Year – Multi-FamilySponsored by Brock White Canada Co.MATTAMY HOMEStrish Braun, Paula roughton, mark Verzyl - windsong

SALES & INFORMATION CENTRE AWARDS

Best Sales & Information Centre - AttachedSponsored by Blanket Home Warranty Ltd.STEPPER CUSTOM HOMES INC.111 & 115 legacy circle se, calgary

Best Sales & Information Centre - DetachedSponsored by Westridge Cabinets (1993) Ltd.MATTAMY HOMES10520 metis trail ne, calgary

RENOVATOR AWARDS

Best Home Renovation (with Addition)Sponsored by Divine Hardwood Flooring Ltd.THE REMODELERS LTD.conley renovation

Best Home Renovation (without Addition)Sponsored by WesternOne Infrastructure ServicesHOMES BY AVI (CALGARY) LPlakeview condo

Best Basement RenovationSponsored by Star Building Materials (Alberta) Ltd.THE REMODELERS LTD.starratt renovation

Best Kitchen Renovation – up to $89,999KON-STRUX DEVELOPMENTS INC.cliff Bungalow Kitchen renovation up to $89,999

PARTNER AWARDS

Supplier & Installer of Products Sponsored by Shane Homes Ltd.PHI SYSTEMS INC.

NEW hOME AWARDS

Best New Home – up to $229,999Sponsored by Ply GemMORRISON HOMESlove residence, Private

Best New Home – $230,000-$269,999Sponsored by The Sterling GroupREIDBUILT HOMESthe opus in Kincora, Private

Best New Home – $270,000-$309,999Sponsored by Classic Kitchens & Cabinets Ltd.BROOKFIELD RESIDENTIALBelvedere – cranston sF, 213 cranford drive se, calgary

Best new Home – $310,000-$349,999Sponsored by RBC Royal BankDOUGLAS HOMES LTD.Barcelona, Kinniburgh, 128 Kinniburgh close, chestermere

Best New Home – $350,000-$399,999Sponsored by Ply GemDOUGLAS HOMES LTD.mykanos 2 showhome, rainbow Falls, 76 rainbow Falls Blvd., chestermere

INDUSTRY AChIEVEMENT AWARDS

Best Innovation: Idea/ProductSponsored by BFL Canada Insurance Services Inc.BROOKFIELD RESIDENTIALaugmented reality

Best New Home – $400,000-$459,999Sponsored by Artistic Stairs Inc.REIDBUILT HOMESthe ridgeway in westmere, 602 marina drive, chestermere

Best New Home – $460,000-$534,999Sponsored by Ply GemHOMES BY US LTD.the ashton in aspen woods estates, 110 aspen summit drive, calgary

Best New Home – $535,000-$599,999Sponsored by The Sterling GroupAUGUSTA FINE HOMES, A DIVISION OF NUVISTA HOMESdemo residence, Private

Best New Home – $600,000-$699,999Sponsored by Albi Homes Ltd.BRAD-MAR HOMESelbow Valley west, Private

Best New Home – $700,000-$849,999Sponsored by Legacy Kitchens Design Group Inc.CANTERRA CUSTOM HOMES LTD.the armani, Private

Best New Home - $850,000-$999,999Sponsored by The Sterling GroupLUPI LUXURY HOMES INC.the lambrusco ii, rock lake estates, 21 rockcliff Heights nw, calgary

Best New Home - $1,000,000-$1,499,999Sponsored by United Drywall Ltd.MORRISON HOMESthe savannah showhome, 222 mahogany manor se, calgary

Best New Home - $1,500,000-$2,299,999Sponsored by Baywest Homes Ltd.MCKINLEY MASTERSthe roseview, Private

Best New Home - $2,300,000 and overSponsored by Albi Homes Ltd.MCKINLEY MASTERScircle P estate, Private

Best Kitchen Renovation – $90,000 and overPINNACLE GROUP RENOVATIONS BY DESIGN LTD.Bearspaw renovation

Best Bathroom/Ensuite RenovationSponsored by Allan Forrest Sales 1991 Ltd.ALBI RENOVA LTD.arbour estates interior improvement

Best Renovator’s Choice RenovationSponsored by Canyon Plumbing & Heating Ltd.ALBI RENOVA LTD.Bearspaw interior improvement

Morrison Homes

Supplier of ProductsSponsored by Stepper Custom Homes Inc.LUX WINDOWS AND GLASS LTD.

Supplier of ServiceSponsored by Wolseley CanadaCUSTOMERINSIGHT



CONTRIBUTORS

EVENT SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSORS

Thank You sponsors!

sam awards | COVER FEATURE

GRAND SAM SPONSORS



Ongoing dedication to the consumer was celebrated at the 2013 SAM Awards gala in March as The New Homebuyers Choice Awards™ were presented by the Professional Home Builders Institute (PHBI) and CustomerInsight™.

“The companies that will succeed and dominate the market for the next several decades will learn how to truly understand their customers and engage in meaningful ways,” says Joe Connelly, executive director of PHBI. “No matter how successful a company has been, if their customers are not receiving what is promised to them, the companies’ brands will not survive. The customers decide if a builder has fulfilled those promises.”

Recipients of The New Home Buyer Choice Awards™ are those home builders who received the highest overall weighted homebuyer satisfaction score in their region and respective category of the New Home & Builder Review program. This program measures all Alberta new home builders registered with CustomerInsight™ through PHBI.

In the New Home & Builder Review, homebuyers evaluate their builders in six key areas: construction experience, pre-occupancy inspection, home readiness, workmanship and materials, customer service, and overall experience.

“We rank all of the builders based on their customer satisfaction results, and the builders achieving the highest scores in each category are the winners,” says Christian Caswell, president and founder of CustomerInsight™. “There is no entry process or judging panel — the results are based entirely on the voice of the customer.”

Contributed by Deanna McArthur, Communications Assistant, CHBA – Calgary region

Calgary builders receive ‘buyers’ choice’ distinctionCustomer satisfaction celebrated at the 2013 SAM Awards

Customer satisfaction is key, especially in the residential construction industry. Andour members know this better than anyone.

Single-Family 5-49 Possessions

WOLF CUSTOM HOMES LTD.

“this award is a big accomplishment: it means that the processes, systems and objectives we have put together to provide great customer services at fair affordable prices have been realized.

“we are very proud of this award. it takes a very passionate team and a lot of hard work to be chosen as a recipient. we try and look at every build and treat every customer how we ourselves would like to be treated and believe that it is the little things that make the building experience fun and enjoyable for our customers.” – miles dowie, general manager of wolf custom Homes ltd.

Other Awards: this is the first customer service award for wolf custom

Homes ltd.

Single-Family 50-149 Possessions

NUVISTA HOMES LTD.

“this award means that all of our hard work and focus on producing a quality home with no or few deficiencies has paid off. out of all of the awards this is the most coveted.

“it takes a team of dedicated people who take pride in making customers happy, while building a quality product that they can be proud of. it starts from the first contact, whether through our show home, website or any other marketing avenue. customer service is important to us.” – mike Plumton, vice-president of nuVista Homes ltd.

Other Awards: nuVista Homes ltd. won seven consecutive customer

choice awards from 2000-2006 and was the 2008 winner of the J.d. Power and

associates Highest customer satisfaction award for the calgary single-Family

new Home Builder category.

Shaun McKernan

Mike Plumton



Customer satisfaction celebrated at the 2013 SAM Awards

Single-Family 150+ Possessions

STERLING HOMES LTD.

“winning this award is validation that all of our efforts on a daily basis do make a difference. i’m happy for our staff; they can see that their individual contributions do make a difference.

“it takes a lot of people from start to finish doing a lot of little things right and keeping our customers front and centre in our daily duties.” – Bill Bobyk, general manager, the sterling group, which includes sterling Homes ltd.

Other Awards: the sterling group has won three other

customer service awards in the last six years.

Multi-Family 5-49 Possessions

CHAPARRAL VALLEY TOWNHOMES BY JAYMAN GROUP OF COMPANIES

“the pinnacle of customer service is one of our key pillars of operations. this award provides validation, energy and excitement for the whole staff.

“it has been our relentless attention to our customer service process, stopping only when customers are happy, that has helped us take home this award.” – graham Boyce, president and coo of Jayman.

Other Awards: Jayman group of companies has consistently

won other customer choice awards in the past,

and has taken home over eight in the last two years.

Multi-Family 50-149 Possessions

SKYWEST CONDOSBY TRUMAN HOMES

“winning this award means that we are doing something right, because the customers are choosing us and not a judging panel. this means that the customers are the ones giving us high marks.

“it is about never saying no, constantly keeping the customer happy and ensuring a direct commitment to service at all times.” – tony trutina, coo, truman Homes.

Other Awards: truman homes has also won customer choice

awards in 2011 and 2013.

Bill Bobykand Mike Cole

All photos courtesy Crystal Image Photography.

Oliver Trutina (Truman Homes) with Joe Connelly (PHBI)

Doug Owens and Travis McLeodJoe Connelly (PHBI), Sean Nolan (Jayman) and Christian Caswell (CustomerInsightTM)

Multi-Family 150+ Possessions

BROOKFIELD RESIDENTIAL

“Brookfield has always simply measured our success based on listening to our customers. we are always trying to gain an unbiased measure of how we are doing in our customers’ eyes. Believing that by putting the customer first, being a customer-centric organization, and truly listening to our customers allows us to continually meet our customers’ expectations.

“this award is a thank-you from our customers for all of the hard work we do day in and day out, making it all worth it.” – doug owens, general manager, Brookfield residential.

Other Awards: Brookfield residential (formerly Hawthorne and

Heartland Homes) has been recognized for their exceptional customer

service since as early as 1992. in the past 23 years, Brookfield residential

has received 20 customer services awards in calgary alone.


View from the top is all about the customers

It doesn’t matter if it’s the first win or the 11th, it’s always a surprise, says the latest Grand SAM Builder of the Year. That’s because winning awards is never the company’s first priority, says Al Morrison, chairman of Morrison Homes.

Builder of the Year: MOrriSOn HOMeS“Our focus has always been on customer satisfaction, so the win is great but we don’t ever lose sight of why we are in business,” says the son of the founder of the pioneer home builder.

Morrison Homes has become one of the city’s largest-volume builders, started in 1961 by Frank Morrison, who had the simple philosophy that the customer came first.

Hard work, the right attitude and innovative product — a winning combination, says Morrison.

“We may have had better positioning and great product this year — everyone is pumped. But come Monday morning, everyone had their sleeves rolled up again and was ready to get to work.”

Morrison Homes is building on its legacy. The company was Builder of the Year for 10 consecutive years last decade, only giving up the reins to Jayman MasterBUILT in 2011 and Calbridge 2010 Ltd. in 2012.

Dave Gladney is president and CEO, and Morrison Homes has expanded to Edmonton.“We are looking at more aggressive expansion in future,” says Morrison. “An increase

in multi-family product, which is the growth side of the industry, and maintaining, if not expanding, our market share in Calgary and Edmonton.”

That could include expansion to outlying areas around Calgary.Morrison took three other SAM Awards March 29: Best Website; Best New Home — up

to $229,999; and Best New Home – $1,000,000 - $1,499,999.


The Morrison Homes team celebrating their Grand SAM Builder of the Year award.


Builder of the YearMORRISON HOMES(reidBuilt Homes ltd.; calbridge 2010 ltd.; stepper custom Homes inc.; nuVista Homes ltd.)

GRAND SAM WINNERS (Finalists in order of finish)

View from the top is all about the customersBuilder of MeritEMPIRE CUSTOMHOMES LIMITED(mcKinley masters; canterra custom Homes ltd.; lupi luxury Homes inc.; Prominent Homes ltd.)

Multi-FamilyBuilder of the YearJAYMAN GROUPOF COMPANIES(truman Homes; Homes by avi Urban (2006) inc.; calbridge 2010 ltd.; albi Homes ltd.)

Renovator of the YearALbI RENOvA LTD.(the remodelers ltd.; Pinnacle group renovations by design ltd.; Kon-strux developments ltd.; empire custom Homes ltd.)

Partner of the YearPHI SYSTEMS INC.(United drywall ltd.; lux windows and glass ltd.; mountain View Building materials ltd.;timber tech truss inc.)

Multi-Family Builder of the Year: JAYMAn GrOUP OF COMPAnieSWhat did it take for Jayman Group of Companies to win the coveted Multi-Family Builder of the Year? “Meeting or exceeding customer expectations,” says its chairman and CEO, Jay Westman. “It’s a life-long quest.”

Started in 1980 by Westman and his father, Al, the company has grown to the point where today, it builds homes, condos and hotels all across Alberta. If you counted the num-ber of ‘doors’ the company will build this year, it’s in the range of 1,800, says Westman.

And that diversity has helped the multi-family division of Jayman Modus find the right product that fits the right market, he says. “We build everything from $170,000 to $1.6 million. We rebranded in 2012 and set ourselves up with a fresh, new approach to design.”

Part of the success is the “secret sauce,” Westman says — “our systems and processes” that have been fine-tuned to fit with the multi-family product.

But the key is the people who work for Jayman. “We have the youngest and most expe-rienced people led by Norm Mross, an expert in construction, who we hired last Septem-ber. A lot of credit also goes to Graham Boyce (president and COO) whose engineering expertise is exemplary.

“We’re known for our design and innova-tion, but that needs to be coupled with a quality product and a satisfied customer. It’s the lifeblood of the company.”

Says Mross, vice-president of Jayman Modus: “Winning the award keeps us driven to lead with innovation and creativ-ity. Modus is driven to continually find new ways of making our product and services unique.”

Jayman Modus captured the Best New Design – villa/Duplex/Townhome up to 1,199 square-feet for The Esprit II in Ma-hogany. Jayman Group of Companies won Best Town Home $350,000 and over for The Westwynd in RiverReach in Cochrane.

“We’re known for our design and innovation, but that needs tobe coupled with a quality product anda satisfied customer. It’s the lifeblood ofthe company.”



renovator of the Year: AlBi renOvA ltd.In the field of renovations making customers happy is a key as well, says the president and managing partner of Albi Renova, Renovator of the Year.

“Win all the awards you want, client satisfaction is our number one focus,” says Brian Maurer.

Still, it was a great way to acknowledge the hard work, creativity, innovation, and qual-ity work that his team does, he says. “They work so hard trying to create great spaces and create wonderful client experiences, and they rarely get recognized as a group. The SAMS do that for us.

“Winning Renovator of the Year two years in a row is particularly special as it reminds us that we are on the right track.”

Started in 1986, the company is under the umbrella of Albi Homes.Albi Renova won Best Bathroom/Ensuite Renovation and Best Renovator’s Choice

Renovation on its way to the Grand SAM.

Builder of Merit: eMPire CUStOM HOMeS liMitedThe Builder of Merit is an award for a small-volume builder. It’s the first win for Empire Custom Homes, which captured many finalist nominations in New Homes and Renovation categories.

For Empire, the transition to boutique homes was only a natural one. President Kevin Mullen started Empire Kitchen and Bath in 1990, expanded to renovations 15 years ago, and started the boutique, luxury home division in 2004.

“We are very honoured,” says Mullen. “It is not only an honour for us, but also to all of the trades and suppliers who work on our sites daily to know that they are being recognized for the quality work they do every day for our customers.

“Our focus of providing a one-stop solution of design, selection and execution and ensuring our clients’ personal involvement and enjoyment of their project is key to our success. This, combined with our focus to build to the highest quality standard for our clients allows us to continue to grow in the construction market of this vibrant city.”

Partner of the Year:PHi SYSteMS inC.Over at PHI Systems, owner Maurice Tran says a passionate staff are the core of his company.

“It’s such an amazing feeling to be rec-ognized for the hard work my team has put in over the past year,” he says of winning Partner of the Year for the second time.

“Providing a high level of service at competitive prices to both the builders and their homeowners is the key. We represent some of the best home builders in the city and our quality of work and service has a direct impact on their reputation.”

The company, in business for a decade and a half, provides low-voltage structured wiring — advanced and roughed in for future electronics needs.

PHI was also recipient of the SAM award for Supplier and Installer of Products.

Contributed by Kathy McCormick, Director of Communications, CHBA – Calgary region

“Win all the awards you want, client satisfaction is our number one focus.”


Renovator of the Year, Albi Renova Ltd.

Builder of Merit, John McLellan, Empire Custom Homes, John Martin, National Home Warranty Group and Chris Berry from Empire Custom Homes.

Partner of the Year, Maurice Tran, PHI Systems.


cmHc | INDUSTRY NEWS

Creating high performance buildings

The power of integrated design

There is nothing revolutionary about integrated design. It is a process to create a high performance building, the structure, its systems and the site that is treated as one interdependent system.This approach is known as the Integrated Design Process (IDP) and it brings together key stakeholders and design professionals.

Goal-drivenInitially, a big-picture goal is set and it is also necessary to set explicit subsidiary goals, objectives and targets as a means of breaking the goal into manageable pieces. These goals are set with the entire project team involved and must include the client. The idea is to get commitment, not compliance, from everyone involved. People support what they help create.

In addition to the design team, the core team needs to be engaged at all times. The core team should include the building owner, the design facilitator, a cost consultant, an energy simulator and, if the procurement process allows it, a general contractor.

Non-traditional expertiseTechnical aspects of the design may require expertise that the core team does not possess. A day lighting modeller can quantify daylight contribution that can lead to changes in switching design. An appraiser can calculate improved development residuals resulting from green design. A site ecologist can be included for constructed wetland design. Other non-buildings-related expertise may be helpful.

Holistic or systemic thinkingThe goal is to optimize the building’s performance by considering all of the building components and subsystems together and their interactions, to achieve synergies. When this is done right, you get something where the whole is greater than the sum of the parts and it may even be cheaper.

IterativeThe traditional phases of the building design process, pre-design, schematic design and development, don’t disappear in IDP. What does change however is how the work gets done in each phase and how the team moves from one phase to the next.

FacilitatedThe primary role of the facilitator is to be accountable for the process of integrated design. This is of course the key to good facilitation of any kind. The facilitator allows the team participants the mental space to do what they do best.

StructuredThere is a generally recognized order to dealing with design and sustainability issues in IDP. The reason that we need to deal with issues and decisions in the right order is to avoid locking in bad

performance by making non-reversible decisions.

InclusiveEveryone, from the owner to the operator, has something critical to contribute to the improved function or performance of the design and everyone must be heard.

By Anand Mishra Senior research Advisor, CMHC, prairies & Territories

Performance targets for:

Non-renewable resources,Emissions,

Indoor environmental quality,Long-term performance,

FunctionalitySocial & economic issues

Consider site development

issues

Select building

structure type

Develop building envelope design

Develop preliminary daylighting, lighting and

power design

Preliminary ventilation, heating and

cooling design

Screen materials for

environmental performance

DevelopConceptDesign

Complete design and

contract documents

Develop QA strategies for construction

and operation

Monitor actual performance

Review Functional Program, establish targets

Assemble the design team;

identify missing specialties

Hold a kick-off Design

Workshop

Feedback loops

Integrated Design Process

Courtesy: IISBE


By Stephanie RöschMarketing and Communications Specialist Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta

PHBi | INDUSTRY NEWS

Building a better tomorrow

Local high school students gain hands-on work experience credits while participating in a charitable initiative.

About the program:

• Why did Brookfield Residentialget involved?

“At Brookfield Residential, we are more than a home builder and a land developer. We see ourselves as a community builder, which means being a partner to support Calgarians. Brookfield has partnered with Habitat for Humanity on many initiatives over the years, and we see tremendous value in these types of programs. We believe in investing in our future and young people like these students, as they are our future city builders.”

• What will the students gainfrom this program?

“Students will get the opportunity to learn whether a career in the homebuilding industry is right for them, while also gaining transferable skills and experience that will benefit them no matter what work they decide to pursue in the future.”

— Trent Edwards, COO, Brookfield Residential.

Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta, Brookfield Residential, Professional Home Builders Institute and the Calgary Board of Education launched the “Youth Building for a Better Tomorrow” Program.

• How will this program preparestudents who may want to choose a career in residential construction?

“This program will ensure that the students who are ‘Building For Tomorrow’ are focused on building a quality product. They will learn practical skills and have hands-on experience that will prepare them for a career in residential construction as a site manager, estimator, designer, technician, inspector or tradesperson.”

— Joe Connelly, PHBI executive director.

• What benefits will thestudents receive?

“Students will receive an industry-recognized Residential Construction Site Manager Level 1 Academic Accreditation, as well as off-campus credits towards their high school diploma.”

— Ryan Emond, learning leader, Off-campus Education, CalgaryBoard of Education.

How is Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta involved and where is the construction site located where the students will be working?

“Students will be working alongside Habitat staff, volunteers and homeowners to build affordable homes in the northeast community of Redstone. Students will receive training in a variety of residential construction skills such as footings and foundations, framing, windows and doors, and interior and exterior finishes.”

• How will this program help Habitatfor Humanity Southern Alberta?

“Not only will this program help build affordable homes for a number of families, students will also have the opportunity to gain an appreciation of how their involvement can help transform lives. The hope is for students to feel inspired to continue to give back to their communities and have compassion for others throughout their lives.”

— Leslie Tamagi, president & CEO, Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta.

Youth Building for a Better Tomorrow Program partners with students from John G. Diefenbaker High School.


By Vanessa GashSafety Codes officer – residential Building regulations DivisionDevelopment and Building Approvals, City of Calgary

cit y oF c algary | INDUSTRY NEWS

Residential ePermits

Since the first Single Construction Permit (SCP) application submission was made in early May, the changes and advancements have been continuous. It was very exciting when the first application took only six minutes to submit. Based on the traditional paper system, this represented a significant amount of time and resources that could be saved for our customers. Under the new electronic submission, all stages of the process have been addressed to provide a completely paperless system — from application

In 2013 the Residential ePermit began accepting volunteer home builder permit applications online as a part of The City’s Cut Red Tape eServices initiative. We are pleased to announce the last year has seen significant evolution and development that we are happy to share with you.

An important part of Cut Red Tape eServices initiative

submission to home occupancy. Even field inspections are conducted by Safety Codes Officers using an iPad to view drawings rather than the traditional onsite pouch of stamped drawings.

This system is quite different than the multi-tiered system of the past. Creating an online process that includes online payment, drawing review, field inspection and occupancy approval has required full time development and ongoing collaboration between The City and homebuilders. In November of last

year the third release added semi-detached dwellings, garages and revisions to the list of online application types. The ePermit system now includes Single Construction Permits with garages

or semi-detached dwellings with garages under a single permit number. Under the paper system these would have required two or four individual permit numbers respectively. Ongoing feedback from builders and staff involved in all stages of the permit and inspection process has helped us refine procedure, online tools and formats used.

The fourth release of the ePermit project was rolled out at the end of January 2014. This newest release made technical improvements, process revisions and addressed the new home warranty information. Originally the system was tested with a small group of builders, now all builders can submit ePermit applications with a vISTA account and a credit card on file.

Feedback from our volunteer homebuilders has been very valuable and positive. As one of the Safety Codes Officers involved in the ePermit plans review, I am excited by the improvements created in the new system. I cannot wait to see how it evolves and makes permit applications and project tracking easier for our customers. To learn more about ePermits and the plans for 2014, visit calgary.ca/ePermit.

Under the new electronic submission, all stages of the process have been addressed to provide a completely paperless system...


The residential construction industry has met its goal in rate reduction for the first time in five years... this is no “accident”

Building for the future

The residential construction industry rate decreased by nearly 19 per cent in 2014 ($1.84) compared to 2013 ($2.26). This is expected to save employers in this industry approximately $2.4 million in premiums in 2014 compared to 2013.

How was this accomplished?The rate decrease is driven by lower claim costs from employers in this industry over the five-year experience period. Lost time claim costs have decreased by $1.3 million in 2012 from 2011 and a further $170,000 for 2013 claims. The average lost-time days per lost-time claim decreased by 33 per cent in 2012-2013 in comparison to 2011. Fewer lost time days means lower claim costs that impact rate setting.

ratio of claim costs to premiums is 38 per cent better for COR holders than non-COR holders across all industries.

CHBA – Alberta has a provincial plan to increase safety among its members. Part of that is increasing the number of builders with CORs. Injury prevention is plan A; once you have an injury the most effective way to reduce human and financial costs is to provide modified work at the earliest opportunity. For more information, visit: www.wcb.ab.ca/employers/pir.asp

Modified workEmployers can positively affect premiums by providing meaningful and safe modified work for injured employees.

Benefits of modified work:•Fewercostsandlowerpremiums•Quickeremployeemedicalrecovery•HigheremployeeretentionIn residential construction, the ratio of

modified work performed to disabling injury claims reached 83 per cent in 2012 and dropped to 78 per cent in 2013. This means that over three-quarters of employees temporarily disabled at the time of their injury returned to modified duties. An effective strategy to stabilize costs is to aim for an 80 to 85 per cent ratio of modified work performed to disabling injury claims in 2014.

Need help with developing a modified work process?

WCB offers free seminars to account holders to learn about effective disability management and more.

visit www.wcb.ab.ca/employers/ seminars.asp

How are premium rates set?Rates are set by forecasting the total full-funded costs of claims occurring in a given rate year. Full-funding means the premiums collected on an annual basis will cover all current and future costs of claims occurring in the year the rates have been set.

The total cost of industry claims over a five-year period (excluding a lag year) is used by WCB to establish a base rate for the rate group. For example, 2014 rates are based on industry claims costs from 2008 to 2012 but exclude 2013 (the lag year).

Focusing on the Certificate of Recognition program and modified work can help build on this foundation of success.

Certificate of Recognition (COR) programA COR is issued by Government of Alberta in conjunction with an accredited certifying partner such as the AB Construction Safety Association which helps with advice and education on workplace health and safety standards. In 2012, COR holders in the residential industry enjoyed almost $810,000 in incentives through Workers’ Compensation Board’s Partnerships in Injury Reduction program. While only 6.6 per cent of employers in residential construction held a COR, they cover 49 per cent of the industry’s payroll. The loss

$0

$500,000

$1,000,000

$1,500,000

$2,000,000

$2,500,000

201320122011

worKers’ comPensation Board | INDUSTRY NEWS

By Paul Tamagi Account Manager, Workers’ Compensation Board – AB


commUnit y serVice award | INDUSTRY NEWS

Home builders help out

The Community Service Award recognizes the outstanding contributions made by local and provincial HBAs to the betterment of the way of life of the people in their community.

“I am so proud of my fellow CHBA – Calgary Region members for stepping up to help the many homeowners that were devastated by the flood in June last year,” said Doug Whitney, president of CHBA – Calgary Region. “We all worked hard to build this city, and it was only natural to dedicate man power, equipment and our expertise to help rebuild effected communities.”

Once homeowners began the difficult task of returning to their homes to assess the damage after the flood, our members were alongside them offering manpower, expertise, tools, equipment, supplies, food and money to aid them in their long road

The amazing generosity and hard work of our members during the flood in June 2013 was recognized at the CHBA national conference in Whistler in April when CHBA – Calgary Region was named the recipient of the Community Service Award.

CHBA – Calgary Region flood response recognized at national conference

to recovery. In total, over $1.6 million was donated to various charities’ and organizations’ flood relief programs.

It was amazing to see everyone from receptionists, to the president of a company covered in mud helping wherever was needed.

And the office at CHBA – Calgary Region was buzzing with activity. Considered command central, our staff was in constant contact with officials at the City of Calgary, sharing updates and posting remediation information to the website as it became available.

Any immediate need for equipment or for skilled labour by the City was communicated to our members through e-mail and the response was phenomenal. Countless sump pumps, garbage bins, electrician hours and more were donated.

Additionally, the office was a place for the general public to come for information and assistance. A live blog was created with calls for help from homeowners, and the Association spread the word through its various social media channels.

But it wasn’t just

“I am so proud of my fellow CHBA – Calgary Region members for stepping up to help the many homeowners that were devastated by the flood in June last year.”

homeowners who were in need of assistance during the aftermath; many of our members themselves were forced out of their offices, were without power and in some cases, had many of their show homes and current projects flooded. Members worked together to help those companies who were struggling and the Association offered boardrooms for members to use if they were without office space.

Members’ efforts during the flood were also celebrated recently at the 2013 SAM Awards Gala, March 29, 2014.

Contributed by Deanna McArthur, Communications Assistant,CHBA – Calgary region

(L-R) Doug Whitney, president CHBA – Calgary Region, Deep Shergill, president CHBA and Donna Moore, CEO CHBA – Calgary Region


Ken Crockett

adVertising FeatUreBUsiness ProFile

o matter what project you’re working on, Star Building Materials can provide

you with assistance to do the job right. Whether you just need the supplies, or some friendly expert advice, Star shines from start to finish on all types of building projects.

“Our understanding of the builder process is what makes us unique,” says Ken Crockett, Vice President of Star Building Materials. “In most cases we are there from the start, because we do the layouts for permits, for both floors and trusses. In many cases we work with the builder’s design team, even before the plan is completed, and we go through the house right to the finishing,” he says.

“We have a very good handle on not only the process of getting a house completed, but we aren’t stuck at any one point, where we are out of the loop,” he adds.

Having the ability to tackle a variety of projects is one of the many services this company has to offer, “in all of our areas, because of the diversity in our customer base, we find that we able to adapt to many customers needs,” he says. “We have people that are very good at residential renovation and commercial markets, and that cross-over in between, and that’s whether we are

estimating or we are doing designs, how we handle managing the project with the customer through that process, right to the type of truck that might ship the material to it,” he adds.

To help maintain their service advantage, a huge new selection centre is set to open by the middle of May. At a spacious 4,800 square-feet in size, it will offer a variety of styles and an immense amount of options to choose from. “There will be interior finishings, including over 100 interior doors displays; we show moldings, baseboards and casings; we have all of your interior hardware, from doorknobs to bath hardware, which includes towel bars,” says Crockett.

As for exterior stylings, there’s also a great selection of windows, with options for both a more traditional and a modern designed home. Buyers can see first-hand a wide variety of exterior finishes such as sidings, trims, and roofing options. Even a special display with all their decking products and railings.

“Within all those selections, we show all the colour options too,” says Crockett, “and we show it in an interactive way, so buyers can touch and feel the variations. We offer a lot of options.”

Already with an abundance of experience and quality products at their fingertips, the added inventory and display capacity is just an added bonus for their customers. Now, with the new selection centre, buyers will really be able to shop the entire package; from lumber to hardware, design to delivery, all under one roof.

“We are committed to every project we work on,” says Crockett, “to complete it on time and ensure the customer is completely satisfied.”

It’s a philosophy that’s served Star Building Materials and their customers well for the past 50 years, and for the next 50 to come. n

Star Building Materials all geared up to open new selection centre

“We are committed to every project we work on, to complete it on time and ensure

the customer is completely satisfied.”



INDUSTRY NEWS | international BUilders sHow rePort

Kitchen trends

Consumers will be “cleaning up” with contemporary kitchen facades that are clean and minimal, the National Kitchen and Bath Association president told International Builders Show delegates. “The designs are also more accessible,” said John A. Petrie.

Contemporary designs showed a 62 per cent increase in popularity in the findings of the 2014 NKBA Design Trends report, added Maria Stapperfenne, president-elect of NKBA.

“Transitional has a very small lead and shaker is in solid third place. Shaker lends itself to either traditional or contemporary style.”

More than half of those surveyed for the report said they were including accessible design and easy maintenance features — “and that will continue to grow,” Stapperfenne said.

Stapperfenne noted that 63 per cent of the 420 kitchen and bathroom professionals surveyed in the NKBA 2014 Kitchen and Bath Design Trends forecast saw an increase in interest in energy

CHBA – Calgary Region delegates recently attended the annual International Builders Show sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders. Held in Las Vegas, it included hundreds of information and educational seminars, plus a huge trade show withmany innovative and exciting products, designs, ideas, and services for the residential construction industry.

This is one of a series of articles written fromseminars we attended. The rest can be found atwww.chbacalgary.com under the banner IBS NEWS.

Clean and contemporary design is ‘in’

savings; another 60 per cent expected to see more demand for energy efficient products this year. Water-saving kitchen faucets were high on consumers’ lists.

Grey is the new colour for kitchens and baths. “White and off-white were tied for second place in 2013,” said Stapperfenne.

Two-thirds of NKBA kitchen designers incorporated docking stations or charging stations in kitchens; 56 per cent included a flat-screen Tv. Outdoor kitchens continue to be popular.

The 2013 BALA Award winner for Room of the Year, an annual competition of the National Association of Home Builders in the U.S., shows the white-on-white kitchen design that is one of the newest trends. Photo by Michael Lowry Photography.

For cabinetry choices: cherry is number one, maple second and alder third. “Watch for walnut to grow in 2014,” said Petrie.

Eight out of 10 respondents said they incorporated ‘furniture-like’ pieces in kitchens — and that’s expected to grow.

Glass, now number three for backsplashes, is expected to increase in popularity, as will glass doors on cabinets.

Quartz countertops were the top choice by far — 70 per cent of respondents – but one-quarter specified countertops with recycled materials and a further 40 per cent expect that to increase in 2014.

Wood continues to be the flooring of choice with 84 per cent of the respondents — and that will grow even more this year.

Satin nickel is the most popular faucet finish, followed by polished chrome; and stainless steel continues as the favourite sink material. Granite composite, now number three, will gain momentum in 2014.

Kitchen features in demand:• Inductioncooktops• Steamovens• French-doorrefrigerators• Bottomfreezerrefrigerators• Touch-activatedorelectronic,no-

touch faucets• LEDlighting“LED lighting is far-and-away the leading

choice,” said Petrie.

Contributed by Kathy McCormick, Director of Communications, CHBA – Calgary region


Documents

Profile Summer 2014