Awards Program Overview
The NARI Remodeler of the Year (RotY) Awards are an esteemed competition organized by National Association of the Remodeling Industry and its Chapters, recognizing outstanding achievements in the remodeling industry. Contractors and their team members compete in various categories, showcasing their remarkable work in remodeling improvements, additions, and elements added to existing homes or commercial buildings.
Entries undergo meticulous evaluation by an impartial panel of industry experts. Each entry is judged based on a comprehensive presentation that includes captivating “before and after” photography, project details, client needs analysis, design, and technical descriptions. The judging criteria emphasize problem-solving abilities, functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation, and difficulty level.
The RotY Awards program comprises three levels of recognition:
- Local RotY Awards: Presented by the NARI of Greater Chicagoland chapter, these awards highlight excellence among the chapter’s members. Chicagoland entries open in August, and the winners will be announced at the chapter’s Annual Gala in December.
- The Local RotY Awards competition is NOT affiliated with the Regional/National competition. You can enter only the Local competition or only the Regional/National competition. If you want to enter the same project into both competitions, you must do so individually and you must pay separate entry fees. Additionally, your project does not have to win a Local RotY Award in order to be eligible for the Regional/National competition.
- Regional RotY Awards: Under the supervision of NARI’s national office, NARI members from across the country can enter projects into the National RotY (Remodeler of the Year) Awards program in more than 45 categories. Winners are selected from entries submitted within the seven established geographic regions nationwide. Regional category winners are typically announced in February. Entries open in October.
- National RotY Awards: The premier recognition program for the remodeling industry, these awards are presented by NARI to its members. One National RotY (Remodeler of the Year) winner is selected from the Regional winners in each category. Winners are announced in the spring at the NARI Annual Conference.
Deadlines & Fees
Early Bird – August 1 to August 15, 2025 – $175
Standard – August 16 to September 27, 2025 – $225
Late Entry – September 28 to October 3, 2025 – $275
Team Member Entry – $125
Project Completion Dates – December 1, 2023 to November 30, 2025