Reality TV renovation stars are using their platforms to shine a light on major issues plaguing the building industry. The Block winners Tess and Luke, along with twin sisters Alisa and Lysandra, have been inundated with horror stories from followers about shoddy workmanship, defective builds, and lack of accountability from contractors.
It began when Tess and Luke shared that they were attempting to get defects fixed on their own recent home build. Alisa and Lysandra re-shared the post, prompting an outpouring of similar devastating experiences from their combined followers. “Enough is enough,” Lysandra declared. “If us in the industry are going through it, I hate to think how many people that aren’t in the industry are being taken for a ride. Something has to change, there has to be some accountability.”
The direct messages and comments they received were “heartbreaking,” Lysandra said. One follower told Tess and Luke they are unable to use their new bathroom because water from the shower floods into the hallway instead of draining properly. Another hired a private inspector during their build – advice that Alisa and Lysandra said they would follow for any future projects.
The couples were quick to clarify they aren’t targeting all builders, with Tess and Luke saying “the cowboys are ruining it for everyone.” Alisa and Lysandra added, “Good builders do absolutely exist, we’ve had the pleasure of working with many for our interior design jobs.”
However, the sheer volume of nightmare renovations and new builds shared by their fans points to systemic issues in the construction world. As one builder candidly told the reality stars, “The industry is in an absolute shambles at the moment.”
For anyone looking to take on a major renovation or new build, the famous twins offered some advice: get references from friends and family who have worked with reputable contractors, and always have a lawyer review any contracts before signing. They also suggested having an independent inspector thoroughly examine the work at key points during construction.
It’s a message they are passionate about after finding success through their appearances on The Block. Tess and Luke won Season 15 in 2019 and have recently moved into their family home with newborn son Mack joining daughter Gia. The identical Alisa and Lysandra twins were the victors on The Block: Sky High in 2013 and followed up by competing on The Block: Fans vs Favourites in 2014. They parlayed their TV fame into founding a successful interior design firm, Alisa & Lysandra Interiors, and lifestyle brand al.ive body.
With their combined social media following of over 600,000, the four have a major platform to advocate for much-needed reform in the building industry. Their ultimate goal is to protect everyday homeowners from being exploited by unscrupulous contractors and dealing with the tremendous stress and cost of repairing shoddy work. By using their influence to elevate the issue, Tess, Luke, Alisa and Lysandra are striving to hold the industry accountable and ensure quality workmanship for anyone taking on a renovation.
