Latest News

BIAW Celebrates 70th Anniversary

February 18, 2020

On Feb. 18, 1950, the Home Builders Association of Washington (HBAW) was officially chartered by the National Association of Home Builders. HBAW changed its name to the Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW) in 1989. Today, BIAW celebrates its 70th Anniversary!

A lot has happened in those 70 years, here are some of BIAW’s Milestones:

1975 – HBAW establishes Executive Committee

1977 – HBAW gives away 1978 Cadillac Coupe de Ville during its annual convention

1982 – HBAW establishes R.O.I.I., the retrospective rating program offered throughout the state

1989 – HBAW changes name to BIAW

1989 – BIAW establishes the Health Insurance Program

1994 – BIAW becomes 10th largest state association with 5,396 members

1998 – BIAW moves to McCleary Mansion

2001 – 6.8 Nisqually earthquake hits and causes major damage to Mansion

2003 – BIAW celebrates grand re-opening of Mansion after completing $500,000 in seismic renovations

2007 – BIAW partners with ABC’s hit TV show Extreme Makeover Home Edition and builds a home in seven days

2007 – BIAW membership hits all-time high at 13,540; becomes second-largest state association

2019 – BIAW Directors approve purchase of Parkside Building, BIAW’s new headquarters

2020 – BIAW receives Senate Resolution for 70th Anniversary

2020 – BIAW is the third largest state association

BIAW would like to thank all the local association staff and members for their support over the last seven decades. We couldn’t do it without you. Come celebrate our 70th Anniversary with us on Feb. 25 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the Hotel RL in Olympia. Cheers to 70 years!

Return to blog