JUNE/JULY 2023 £4.25
THE MAGAZINE OF THE FEDERATION OF MASTER BUILDERS
KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY
Working together as a family presents unique challenges but even greater opportunities – especially when the next generation is set to take over
NEURODIVERGENT INSIGHTS FMB members share their personal stories of being neurodiverse
LOCAL CELEBRATIONS The 2023 Master Builder Awards are underway – meet some of the winners
IMMIGRATION EASED The FMB lobbied the Government to improve the industry’s skills shortage
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Contents JUNE/JULY 2023 Industry update
Features
24 Daylight robbery
Van Watch founder Ray Stafford shares his vision to stamp out tool theft and keep builders in business
26 Neurodiverse point of view
7 Welcome Celebrating members’ excellence at Master Builder Awards ceremonies across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland 8 News The latest headlines from the industry 12 The FMB’s viewpoint Issues affecting the sector 13 Innovation insights A look at new products and services
Two FMB members share their unique experiences of being neurodiverse and how it has affected their working lives
31 All in the family
Handing over a business you’ve built from the ground up is made a little easier when the future leaders are in the family
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Your FMB
35 Promoting the FMB
Spotlight
With advertising campaigns on radio and television, the FMB has been raising awareness of the Find a Builder service
14 Celebrations have begun
The 2023 Master Builder Awards are off to a great start, with winners announced across England and Wales
40 Latent defects
Find out what Latent Defects Insurance is and why it’s important for your business both now and in the future
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Business support
41 Fewer immigration barriers
The FMB has successfully lobbied the Government to relax immigration regulations to ease the labour shortage
20 Becoming a tech head
How to use technology to boost efficiency and deliver innovation
42 Member update A list of new members who have joined the FMB as well as those who have had to be expelled for not maintaining standards 45 Member news An update from across the regions and devolved nations
22 Health and safety update
Updates on H&S to keep you safe on site
23 Higher-risk developments Members must prepare for the
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changes brought about by updates to the Building Safety Act 2022
Editorial Editor Bradford Keen
Advertising Advertising enquiries Daniel Goodwin +44 (0)20 7880 6206 masterbuilder@redactive.co.uk
Master Builder has been carefully prepared but articles are published without responsibility on the part of the publishers or authors for loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any view, information or advice included therin. Articles published in Master Builder do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Federation of Master Builders Ltd nor can the Federation of Master Builders Ltd, the publishers or authors accept any responsibility for any claims made by advertisers.
bradford.keen@redactive.co.uk Senior designer Will Williams Picture editor Claire Echavarry Publishing director Joanna Marsh
@fmbuilders
Published by Redactive Publishing Ltd Fora, 9 Dallington Street, London EC1V 0LN www.redactive.co.uk
Production Production manager Aysha Miah-Edwards +44 (0)20 7880 6241 aysha.miah@redactive.co.uk
/FederationofMasterBuilders
FEDERATION OF MASTER BUILDERS David Croft House 25 Ely Place London EC1N 6TD Tel: 020 7025 2900 www.fmb.org.uk
@federationofmasterbuilders
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Welcome BRIAN BERRY
W elcome to the summer edition of Master Builder , which is focused on supporting and growing your business, and celebrating the fantastic work that Master Builder companies have been carrying out across the UK. Stamping out tool theft But firstly, did you know that you are 13 times more likely to have your van broken into than your home? What about how our industry is losing more than £1 million a day in damaged vans, stolen goods and lost working time? That's why the FMB is supporting Van Watch, a new campaign to reduce tool crime. Van Watch is a partnership of van-based workers, industry leaders, trade representatives, insurers, security product manufacturers and police and crime agencies. We interview Van Watch founder Ray Stafford on pages 24-25 about how builders can protect themselves and why tool marking and free tool banks are essential. Working together, we have the best chance to reduce this crime and its impact not only on builders’ businesses but their mental health. Neurodiverse strengths Neurodiversity is an issue people are talking about more often, but what does it mean and how can recruiting and retaining neurodiverse talent help your business? Neurodiversity is the umbrella term for people with neurological differences such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia. As you know, the UK construction industry is in the midst
It has been a privilege to participate in FMB members’ celebrations at FMB Master Builder Awards ceremonies across the UK
of a skills shortage, with many firms struggling to recruit the necessary talent to secure their future and meet the needs of their clients. Neurodiverse talent represents a relatively untapped talent pool, with just 22% of autistic adults in employment. But they have the potential to outperform others by thinking ‘outside the box’ and generating innovative solutions to problems, as well as being highly analytical and paying great attention to detail – which can be a real bonus to any business wanting a competitive edge. On pages 26-29, FMB members share their own experiences of being neurodiverse and explore how businesses can attract neurodiverse talent and create a more inclusive workforce. Master Builder Awards Finally, it has been a privilege to participate in FMB members’ celebrations happening at FMB Master Builder Awards ceremonies across the UK. The awards, featured on pages 14-19, showcase the best work of FMB members. The awards ceremonies have been very well attended, which bodes well for the forthcoming national Master Builder Awards at The Grosvenor House Hotel in Central London on 22 September, dubbed by The Sun as the “Oscars of the building industry”. Until then, I wish you all a very happy summer.
BRIAN BERRY, Chief Executive Federation of Master Builders
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INDUSTRY UPDATE NEWS News
CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY NEWS
Switch to renewable energy or shut down
U p to a third of small and medium-sized enterprises of electricity and gas, according to recent research from data analytics and credit reporting company Experian. Add to that the worsening supply chain issues and fall in consumer spending, and it’s plain to see the value that businesses will gain from moving (SMEs) in the UK will be unable to absorb the climbing costs to solar power, said Gareth Jones, Managing Director of FMB member Carbon Zero Renewables, based in Old Colwyn, St Asaph, Mochdre, Llandudno and Deeside. Jones, who is also Vice President of FMB Wales and Net Zero Ambassador for the North Wales and Mersey Dee Business Council, said: “From a financial and environmental perspective, moving away from traditional fuel and energy is the right path because we have already seen so many firms make difficult decisions and even close because the cost- of-living crisis has had such a rapid and detrimental impact, with gas and electricity bills being key factors.
CITB injects £100 million into skills funding The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has doubled grant rates for short courses for employers delivering core skills training to their teams, and increased grant rates for specific supervision and management qualifications. The decision was made to provide greater support to workers who have been affected by the Industry Accreditation card withdrawal, with grants for supervision and management qualifications rising from £600 to £1,250 and £1,500 respectively. The new rates come off the back of increases in 2022: An additional £2,000 for each dry lining apprentice Increase from £600 to £1,000 for rain screen cladding qualification grants. CITB Chief Executive Tim Balcon said: “This uplift in grants is our response to feedback from employers, who told us increased costs are making it more challenging to invest in the training they need. We know investing in training can bring a competitive advantage helping businesses to retain and attract more workers and to ensure they have an upskilled workforce to win new work.”
“Obviously, for any business, these bills are going up, and larger organisations such as manufacturers with multiple sites or huge premises are going to be hit hard. This is the time to get serious, because some will likely need planning permission, more solar panels and a bigger system – and that takes time; it doesn’t happen overnight.” Solar installation in larger projects can take up to a year while smaller commercial projects can be installed within three months. Jones said: “We are meeting with dozens of business owners a week, helping them navigate these tough times. We are not saying this to worry people, we see the repercussions every day and are here for them. There is assistance out there, so pick up the phone. We need to come together and avoid any more businesses disappearing because in this volatile market, the problem is not going away.” For those wondering about solar energy in a part of the world where the sun doesn’t shine a lot of the time, Jones has an answer: “Solar panels are reliable – it doesn’t have to be a bright,
sunny day for them to work – and we can forecast quite easily how much it’s going to generate and save per year, whatever the geographical location, giving customers peace of mind.”
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NEWS IN NUMBERS
12.8% The annual house building cost inflation percentage at the end of 2022. Source: BCIS Private Housing Construction Cost Index
Net zero timber skills launched
T imber Development UK has launched its Timber Skills Action plan in partnership with the HCI Skills Gateway to support the construction industry to increase the use of timber and achieve net zero targets. Engineered products such as Cross-Laminated Timber can capture and store carbon in the built environment, resulting in a net benefit of 754CO 2 /m 2 reduction compared with other forms of construction. The Timber Skills Action plan will provide development of training programmes and Continuing £60m fines for rigging bids Ten demolition firms have been fined £60 million by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) for illegally colluding to fix bids for demolition and asbestos removal contracts between 2013 and 2018. The CMA also disqualified three directors of firms involved in bid rigging across £150 million worth of contracts. The CMA said rigging the bids deceived customers into thinking the bids were competitive – but this was not the case.
Professional Development (CPD) progression.
David Hopkins, Chief Executive of Timber Development UK, said: “The construction industry faces a steep climb to achieve net zero targets as one of the worst- performing industries. Timber provides a ready-made solution that doesn’t rely on greenwashing, speculative innovations, or progress in other industries to deliver genuine carbon savings in the short and medium term. We now need the construction sector and government to hear this call to action.”
150 The number of construction industry volunteers supporting a national drive to reduce
suicide rates amongst construction workers. Source: Make It Visible
The guilty firms include: Brown and Mason (£2.4m) Cantillon (£1.9m) Clifford Devlin (£423,615)
DSM (£1.4m) Erith (£17.5m)
JF Hunt (£5.6m) Keltbray (£16m) McGee (£3.7m) Scudder (£8.2m) Squibb (£2m)
3X Construction workers are
three times more likely than others to commit suicide . An important reminder during May’s Mental Health Awareness Week. Source: ONS
Brown and Mason, Cantillon, Clifford Devlin, DSM, John F Hunt, Keltbray, McGee and Scudder agreed to reduced fines by admitting their involvement.
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INDUSTRY UPDATE NEWS
Fire safety collaboration The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has developed two new online courses covering important fire safety lessons: 1. Fire Safety Awareness in Construction and the Built Environment for UK workers at all levels and occupations, covering topics such as how fires start, grow and spread, and sources of ignition and fuel on site, fire prevention and protection measures, safe evacuation and the impact of fire on the environment, communities and individuals.
£2.5bn housing retrofit drive T he Government has allocated £2.5 billion over the next two years to improve the energy efficiency of homes and public buildings in England: £630 million for local authorities, providers of social housing and charities from phase two of the latest stage of the Home Upgrade Grant; £778 million through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund; and
The Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund and Home Upgrade Grant are expected to result in improvements to more than 115,000 homes through energy-saving measures ranging from insulation to new windows. An additional £409 million from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme will be used to reduce the energy bills in schools, hospitals and other public sector buildings. The new Department for Energy Security and Net Zero suggested that the work could support 20,000 jobs in the construction and housing maintenance sectors. Energy Efficiency Minister Lord Callanan said: “Reaching net zero means considerable action from the public sector as well as private sector. Through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme funding allocation announced today, we are empowering public bodies to save the taxpayer hundreds of millions while packing a punch on our ambitious and necessary climate goals.”
2. Fire Safety in Buildings is for more experienced workers and focuses on
fire safety in buildings after the construction stage. It builds on the first course, addressing legislation and regulation changes post Grenfell and covers guidance on holistic fire safety, fire
prevention (materials), protection (passive and
active), compartmentation, protected escape routes, workmanship, competence, quality, reporting issues and concerns.
£1.1 billion in match funding for social housing provided by local authorities, providers of social housing and charities.
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NEWS
NEWS IN NUMBERS
45% Increase in the number of young people seeking information about a career in construction . Source: CITB
Government warned about poor progress
by 2028 but only 55,000 were installed in 2021. During the same time, 1.5 million gas boilers were fitted. The NIC called on the Government to get back on track. Its advice includes: Durable policies to deliver long-term goals and certainty for investment; Fewer but better projects targeted by central government; Devolution of funding and decision- making, with multi-year funding for combined authorities and long-term devolved budgets for local transport authorities; and Improving delivery through updated National Policy Statements. reduce carbon emissions. McGee will ribbon cut existing beams to increase section stiffness. Seb Fossey, McGee Group Managing Director, said: “This is the first time that any project in the UK is targeting exact steelwork sections to be deconstructed, de-fabricated, recertified and refabricated for use in the redevelopment of the same site. “It is our hope that by successfully delivering this scheme, it will demonstrate that technical solutions around steelwork reuse are commercially viable for future schemes in the Capital.”
Progress on major infrastructure projects has lagged, despite the need having increased, and the UK Government is not likely to meet its targets, according to the UK’s independent National Infrastructure Commission (NIC). The NIC’s annual Infrastructure Progress Review points to: Poor energy efficiency in UK homes; Inadequate low carbon heating solutions; and Insecurity of water supply and demand.
35% Percentage of UK builders now offering clients payment plans to help with the cost of living. Source: IronmongeryDirect
The Government said it would install at least 600,000 heat pumps each year
Engineering company McGee plans to repurpose structural steel from a dismantled Grade II listed London office block for a 12-storey, 150,000 ft 2 , complex scheme on the same site. The company said it will reuse as much as 96% of the existing steelwork to rebuild the complex to Structural steel reused in office project
£12.50 The daily charge from 29 August for non-compliant vehicles across all London boroughs as part of the ultra-low emissions zone. Source: TfL
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INDUSTRY UPDATE VIEWPOINT
The FMB gives its viewpoint on the headlines affecting the construction sector Viewpoint
Clarity over Biodiversity Net Gain Rules is welcome
Boiler Upgrade Scheme has failed
The FMB welcomed clarity on the new biodiversity net gain rules, which come into force in November 2023, but work is needed to ensure small house builders are not adversely affected. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB said: “Many small house builders have been worried about these changes and the impact they could have on delivering new homes. The Government must ensure small house builders are supported, especially on brownfield sites, which could be particularly affected and are the traditional sites chosen by smaller developers. “Small house builders already face a tranche of new rules and regulations that increase the cost and complexity of building new homes, so targeted support to help them deliver biodiversity net gain will be key.”
pathway for consumers to upgrade the energy efficiency of their homes, then they will create the market for it. As it stands, the industry is ready to make the leap to retrofit the nation’s homes, but reticence from the Government has kept small, local builders from training up their staff in green skills as they can’t see a clear pipeline of work ahead.”
The FMB supports the House of Lords Climate Change and Energy Committee’s opinion that the Boiler Upgrade Scheme has failed. The committee has sent its findings to Lord Callanan, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “More needs to be done to increase the energy efficiency of our homes, especially by raising public awareness. This ultimately needs to come from the Government, with support from industry. If there is a clear
Berry added: “Ultimately, the Government should develop a UK-wide strategy for retrofitting homes, and lead on the issue
of green skills and financing solutions.
House building slump is a major concern A sharp drop in house building activity – the worst since May 2020, according to S&P Global / CIPS UK Construction PMI data – is worrying for industry and consumers alike.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB said: “It’s troubling that house building is the weakest-performing area within construction as the country is in the grips of a housing crisis, with smaller builders feeling the pinch on top of decline in their output over recent decades. “The FMB supports the Government’s plans to build more beautiful and locally sympathetic homes, but there is no clear plan for how this will happen. We need to see increased funding to local authority planning departments to help them take on and train more planning staff and a provide a greatly simplified planning process to get homes out of planning purgatory.”
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INDUSTRY UPDATE INNOVATION
Building tomorrow A round-up of the latest innovative concepts, products and services in the construction industry
BAUBOT MRS5
Construction robot What is it? The BAUBOT MRS5 compact and flexible robot weighs 500kg, has a payload of 10-20kg, and a reach of 1,000-1,900mm for use on precise tasks on construction sites where space and floor load are limited. Why is it innovative? The MRS5 performs a range of tasks accurately and efficiently. The robot enables teams to streamline workflows, reduce manual labour, and improve safety for workers. What’s the key takeaway? By integrating innovative solutions such as BAUBOT MRS5, the construction industry can address safety and worker shortages. Noise barrier What is it? SilentUP® is a retractable noise barrier for use in construction. Why is it innovative? SilentUP can be easily and quietly installed by hand, and doesn’t require a concrete foundation. The panels are stacked upwards from ground level and connected by a magnetic gap sealing. What’s the key takeaway? The noise barrier reduces noise-related complaints, boosts team productivity
RSP’s new ESE 8
Suction excavator with dual tipping
Jointless underfloor heating cable What is it? ThermoSphere’s Membrane Heating Cable is used for underfloor heating and relies on TwistedTwin construction and in-line hot- to-cold technology. Why is it innovative? Many faults occur around the cold tail joint of the heating cable because the joints, which are normally heat-shrink wrapped, are three times thicker than the cable. Installation of thicker cables requires installers to chase out concrete and cut into the membrane and insulation, risking damage to cables, joints and the waterproofing layer barrier. What is the key takeaway? The Membrane Heating Cable removes the need to cut the membrane, insulation
and safety at work. It is reusable so it cuts down on waste. The product is widely used in Hong Kong. Cooling paint What is it? i2cool is passive radiative cooling paint to cool down buildings. It was created by a Hong Kong tech start-up with the same name.
What is it? RSP UK has launched the new ESE 8, a suction excavator with dual tipping – mounted onto a Mercedes Benz AROCS with an 8m 3 container. Why is it innovative? The new model is set to transform suction excavator use, with dual tipping and 20% increase on the working range compared with other models, making it first in its class. It came to the UK in March, with construction company Force One the first to invest in the new technology. What is the key takeaway? The RSP ESE 8 has many additional features, including new fan housing doors that provide improved access for maintenance, a cooling system, and four stainless steel storage lockers.
Why is it innovative? i2Cool uses passive radiative
cooling technology, inspired by ants living
under high temperatures and high radiation in the Sahara Desert. They reflect light to keep their internal temperatures low. The
paint does the same thing for buildings.
What is the key takeaway? The paint is able to reflect sunlight off buildings, lowering heat and reducing reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems. Carbon emissions are lower as are buildings’ cooling bills.
and flooring, simplifying the installation process.
ThermoSphere heating cable
SilentUP noise barrier
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EXCELLENCE 2023 MASTER BUILDER AWARDS CELEBRATIONS HAVE BEGUN!
The 2023 Master Builder Awards celebrations are off to a great start, with several winners announced at ceremonies across England and Wales
T he old saying, ‘you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone’ rings true at this year’s Master Builder Awards. What a wonderful experience it is to be celebrating Master Builders in person again after our virtual affair in 2021. The awards venues were buzzing with excitement and camaraderie. So far, we have had five of 11 ceremonies, with coverage of the remaining events to come in the next edition of Master Builder .
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The winning projects published here reflect the results of award ceremonies that had taken place in some regions in England and the Devolved Nations by the start of May 2023. Winners from ceremonies in late May and June, including the North (North West, Northern Counties, and Yorkshire and Trent), Scotland, and Northern Ireland will be published in the August/September 2023 edition of Master Builder . Photos published are only a selection of the winning projects. Visit the website for more details and images: www.fmb.org.uk/mbawards
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CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE
Southern Counties
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Thank you to our headline sponsor Openreach and event supporter CITB for supporting the South Master Builder Awards ceremony.
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Congratulations to the award winners: Apprentice of the Year: Kenny Thompson of Biocraft Ltd ( 1 ) Highly Commended: Oliver Rowles of Ridgeback Projects Limited ( 2 ) Bathroom Project: Bespoke Living Construction Ltd ( 3 ) Building Company of the Year: Lofthouse Residences Ltd ( 4 ) Commercial or Public Sector Project: All Build Developments Ltd ( 5 ) Heavenly Builder of the Year: Keestone Ltd ( 6 ) Highly Commended: Alex Hunt of Bright Green Homes LLP ( 7 ) House Builder Award: Build My Home Ltd ( 8 ) Kitchen Project: Bagshots Ltd ( 9 ) Large Renovation Project: Phoenix Design and Construction (South East) Ltd ( 10 ) Medium Renovation Project: Houghton Lewis Group Ltd ( 11 ) Small Renovation Project: Oakston Solutions Limited ( 12 ) Sustainability Award: Bespoke Living Construction Ltd ( 13 ) Highly Commended: L P Harman Building Services Ltd ( 14 )
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EXCELLENCE 2023 MASTER BUILDER AWARDS
The winning projects published on these pages reflect the results of award ceremonies that took place before the start of May 2023.
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South West Thank you to our headline sponsor Openreach and event supporter CITB for supporting the South Master Builder Awards ceremony.
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Congratulations to the award winners: Apprentice of the Year: Joseph Harris of Alford Construction ( 1 )
Highly Commended: Aaron Dearing of Dale Chadwick Carpentry and Construction Ltd ( 2 ) Bathroom Project: AB Conduit Building ( 3 ) Building Company of the Year: AB Conduit Building ( 4 ) Commercial or Public Sector Project: Stonewood Builders Ltd ( 5 ) Heavenly Builder of the Year: Ken Willsher of Dale Chadwick Carpentry and Construction Ltd ( 6 ) House Builder Award: Northcott Building Contractors Ltd ( 7 ) Kitchen Project: Dale Chadwick Carpentry and Construction Ltd ( 8 ) Large Renovation Project: Stonewood Builders Ltd ( 9 ) Medium Renovation Project: M R P Construction ( 10 ) Small Renovation Project: P C Builders Ltd ( 11 ) Sustainability Award: Thorn Homes Ltd ( 12 )
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CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE
Additional winners will be published in the next edition of Master Builder.
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Thank you to our drinks reception sponsor TradePoint and event supporter CITB for supporting the Central Master Builder Awards ceremony.
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Congratulations to the award winners: Apprentice of the Year: Seth Barton, Neways Group Ltd ( 1 )
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Bathroom Project: Vantage & Co Group Limited ( 2 ) Building Company of the Year: C Wood & Son (Luton) Ltd ( 3 ) Commercial or Public Sector Project: Taylor Fit Out Ltd ( 4 ) Heavenly Builder of the Year: Nigel Young of A Youngs Extension & Construction Services Ltd ( 5 ) House Builder Award: Modplan Building and Refurbishment Contractors Ltd ( 6 ) Kitchen Project: R J Bacon Builders Ltd ( 7 ) Large Renovation Project: Vantage & Co Group Limited ( 8 ) Medium Renovation Project: Cornerhouse Building Contractors Ltd ( 9 ) Small Renovation Project: Swiss Build Ltd ( 10 ) Sustainability Award: E.O. Jones & Sons ( 11 )
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EXCELLENCE 2023 MASTER BUILDER AWARDS
The winning projects published on these pages reflect the results of award ceremonies that took place before the start of May 2023.
London Congratulations to the award winners: Apprentice of the Year: Joseph Powell of McLoughlin Decorating Limited ( 1 ) Bathroom Project: Pencil and Brick Ltd ( 2 ) Building Company of the Year: Home Republic Ltd ( 3 ) Commercial or Public Sector Project: Home Republic Ltd ( 4 ) Heavenly Builder of the Year: Luke Tossoun of Hawksmoor Construction Ltd ( 5 ) House Builder Award: Home Republic Ltd ( 6 ) Kitchen Project: Hawksmoor Construction Ltd ( 7 ) Large Renovation Project: Pencil and Brick Ltd ( 8 ) Medium Renovation Project: Chalk Build Ltd ( 9 )
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Small Renovation Project: Aspen Dv Ltd ( 10 ) Sustainability Award: Earl and Calam Design and Build Ltd ( 11 )
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Wales Congratulations to the award winners: Apprentice of the Year: Jordan Gay of Bluestone Builders Ltd ( 1 )
Bathroom Project: Excel Home Design Ltd ( 2 ) Building Company of the Year: ASD Build Ltd ( 3 ) Heavenly Builder of the Year: Excel Home Design Ltd ( 4 ) House Builder Award: Roberts Construction ( 5 ) Kitchen Project: Excel Home Design Ltd ( 6 ) Large Renovation Project: Just Lime Ltd ( 7 ) Highly Commended: Carreg Construction Ltd ( 8 ) Medium Renovation Project: Wyn Davies Building & Roofing Contractor ( 9 ) Small Renovation Project: Excel Home Design Ltd ( 10 ) Sustainability Award: M J Lewis Plumbing & Heating Ltd (Trading As MJ Construction) ( 11 )
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CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE
Additional winners will be published in the next edition of Master Builder.
Your invitation to join the celebration 2023 National Master Builder Awards Ceremony Friday 22 September 2023 12.00pm – 6.00pm
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Grosvenor House Hotel 86-90 Park Lane London W1K 7TN
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Celebrate with Nick Knowles!
Winners from the local ceremonies will go on to compete as finalists for a national award in their category. The National Master Builder Awards ceremony will be held from 12.00pm on Friday, 22 September 2023 at Grosvenor House Hotel in London. We’re thrilled that Nick Knowles will be joining us again as our host for this special celebration. One lucky winner will take home the trophy for 2023 Master Builder of the Year and a new Isuzu D-max Utah Pick Up truck, worth over £37,000, thanks to our national headline sponsor, Isuzu. The event will bring the building community together to celebrate the achievements of Master Builders across the UK. Members are welcome to invite family, friends, colleagues and their clients along. Attendance at the ceremony is open to all members – even if you’re not in the running for an award – so why not make a weekend of it in London and enjoy a fun evening of networking with fellow members? Tickets are £125 + VAT per person. Get yours at tinyurl.com/MBA-national-book
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BUSINESS SUPPORT TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
Using technology to increase efficiency and drive innovation is smart for your business, but how do you do this effectively? BECOMING A TECH HEAD
E verywhere you look these days, a business coach, magazine writer or someone down the pub is telling you just how good technology can be for your business. So where do you begin? As with many aspects of work and life, the answer is not straightforward. The first hurdle, at the moment, is finding the right kind of product from a reliable technology provider. “A lot more brokerage needs to be done between tech providers and businesses,” says Construction Coach Maria Coulter, who is currently running the FMB’s Business Coaching Pilot Programme, where she is educating participants on a number of areas to focus on to improve their business growth and resilience.
“You have different people at different levels, with some tech-savvy businesses that are really up for the journey. They seek out different systems and have a natural aptitude to start using the system in their businesses. “Then there are the businesses that like the idea
“Tech providers need to provide more support to construction customers,” Coulter argues. “They need to understand what construction businesses require, what barriers they encounter, and what challenges they usually face when implementing tech in their business.
of tech, but aren’t particularly tech-savvy. Maybe they have an ageing workforce that is reluctant to go down the tech route because it takes a lot of headspace to find the right system and integrate it into their business. “They need people who understand their business to
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TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
Real tech wins “I’ve seen how digital tools can empower people,” Coulter says, “making a difference to efficiency and productivity.” Real-world examples include: Client dashboard – it is simple to use and clients really like it. Clients are able to see the project’s progress and have better channels of communication with the builder. It also enables the builder to share tools and checklists with their subcontractors. Costing software – has “made a massive difference” because the company really understands their numbers – mark-ups, costs and profit margins – so they know when to push back against clients asking for price cuts and decisively say no because the numbers just won’t work. Challenges to overcome An ageing workforce that is reluctant to implement technology, inadequate support from tech providers, limited resources, high costs and insufficient trial periods are just some of the challenges that SME construction firms face when it comes to converting their business from manual to digital processes. Which is why Coulter says business owners should try to determine the value that tech can bring and, then, focus on creating a period of exploration and testing within the business to see if it works. “Employees need to be a part of the process so employers need to say, ‘We're looking at implementing this and here’s
a chance to test it.’ Employees need to know that there is a purpose behind the new technology and understand what the desired outcome is.” Growing in confidence One of the paradoxes of technology is, as Coulter points out, that those who are uncertain of tech will only become more convinced of its power and grow in confidence when they use it. “The best way to get people on board with tech is by actually using systems and processes, and, of course, providing them with the right training and support to do so because not everybody is tech-savvy.” But, as seen, training and support is limited. Tech companies provide different levels of after-sales support, often depending on the cost of the product or the version purchased. Additionally, many of the tech companies are based in the US, Coulter says, meaning that different time zones can be a challenge when it comes to immediacy in communication, and they don’t necessarily understand what it is to run a small construction business in the UK, and they don’t know about the day-to-day challenges companies face. “I definitely think that there's a gap in the market for trainers who are experts in particular systems and who can go into an organisation to support people to use them. It’s a gap that we as an industry need to look at to really help businesses get on board with technology, otherwise, they are never going to embrace it the way the industry wants them to embrace it and we’re just not going to get to where we want to be digitally.”
struggle with the trial offers as they don’t have enough time to implement solutions and customise them to their unique business needs to assess how effective they are. “Free trials don't necessarily work so well because you need to tailor a solution to your business, which takes time,” Coulter says. “You’ll struggle to get the best out of a system or understand how it will work for you until you integrate it into your business. The trial period might not be long enough to do it. “We’ve all done it at times, signed up for a trial with good intentions, but it kind of goes on the back burner when everything else comes into play. That's really a barrier.” Of course, all of these systems and solutions cost money and, Coulter says, more needs to be done by providers to support customers to identify their likely return on investment to show whether or not it’s going to be a worthwhile expense. The right solution Before purchasing a new tech solution, Coulter urges businesses, firstly, to determine what they plan to use it for. Her advice is to: 1. Map out all of your business processes using a pack of post-it notes, including your processes for winning clients, writing a bid for a tender, compiling contracts, setting projects up for success, keeping clients happy; 2. Determine which processes are inefficient and whether they could be improved by automating them; and 3. Implement the tech and assess its impact on improving efficiency.
hold their hand and help them implement tech.” But both tech providers and independent tech coaches offering relevant tech support
and guidance are few in number, Coulter notes,
which means the uptake of technology remains relatively low for smaller businesses. Tech solutions providers need to improve engagement with construction businesses to understand their needs better. Coulter believes that trade associations and membership bodies like the FMB should also have a role in the conversation. Not enough trial time Many tech providers offer free trial periods – usually ranging from seven to 21 days – of their software or products. But participants of the FMB Business Coaching Pilot Programme say they
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Master Builder
www.fmb.org.uk
BUSINESS SUPPORT HEALTH & SAFETY
The latest news and updates on health and safety in construction to help you and your workforce stay safe on site HEALTH SAFETY &
Concerns over PPE product quality A staggering 85% of personal protective equipment (PPE) products sold in the UK fail to meet safety standards, according to the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF). BSIF testing of 127 PPE products between December 2021 and December 2022 revealed the majority failed to deliver adequate levels of protection or to perform as advertised. Examples include ineffective cut- resistant gloves and safety harnesses supplied without user instructions or documentation. Positively, 86% of the 387 PPE products from BSIF-registered suppliers assessed during the same period passed testing immediately, and the remaining 14% of non-compliant products were brought into line after being identified. Be safe and find verified BSIF- registered PPE product suppliers at www.bsif.co.uk/find-a-member
Falls from height are the biggest cause of fatal injuries in construction. Health and Safety Executive (HSE) stats reveal: 29 workers died from accidents when working at height during 2021/22; More than 60% of deaths attributed to working at height involve falls from ladders, scaffolds, working platforms, roof edges and through fragile roofs; and 35,280 non-fatal accidents involve falls from height across all industry sectors – that’s 97 accidents a day. Avoid common H&S pitfalls October deadline to register high-rise residential buildings Under the Building Safety Act 2022, all high-rise residential buildings in England at least 18m tall (or with at least seven storeys and two or more residential units) must be registered with the Building Safety Regulator by 1 October 2023. The registration process is now open for any such buildings in England and is to be completed by a Principal Accountable Person (PAP). The PAP is anyone who owns a building or is accountable for its safety. When applicable to multiple people, the PAP is the person accountable for the building’s external walls and structure. Find more information on PAPs and how to register your high-rise building at tinyurl.com/MB-high-rise-reg
In a recent FMB webinar, Andy Harper of the Building Safety Group explored common health and safety hazards from 15,000 site inspections and offered advice to help you remain compliant. Catch up on the webinar content and download associated resources at www.fmb.org.uk/H&S
HSE guidance for workplace violence and aggression Employers have a responsibility to protect
Stay sun-safe this summer Catching summer sun on site feels good, but you’re risking skin cancer. The British Skin
workers from physical and verbal aggression on and off site, regardless of workers’ employment status, by: Taking steps to prevent violent incidents; Providing training on violence in the workplace; and Reporting incidents to the HSE. Employees can work to reduce incidents of violence at work by: Cooperating with employers and fellow team members to meet responsibilities; Being mindful of how your actions could harm those around you; and Reporting incidents to a manager or HR representative.
Foundation’s advice is to: Cover up with clothing; Wear hardhats or a sun hat if not on site to protect your head; Wear wraparound sunglasses with the UKCA marking; Use SPF factor 30 sunscreen 20- 30 minutes before sun exposure and at regular intervals; and Seek regular breaks in the shade. Protect your skin with a free Sun Awareness booklet from tinyurl.com/MB-BSF-sun
Read the guidance in full at tinyurl.com/MB-HSE-guide
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BUSINESS SUPPORT BUILDING REGULATIONS
T he UK Government has begun introducing secondary legislation to bring the Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA) fully into force. “Two important developments will help members understand whether the work they carry out is likely to be subject to the new regulatory regime for ‘higher-risk buildings’,” says Gavin Hoccom, Senior Associate in the construction team at law firm Browne Jacobson, and a member of the FMB’s London Board. What is a higher-risk building? At least 18 metres high or having at least seven storeys; and Containing at least two residential units. Hoccom says the Higher-Risk Buildings (HRB) Regulations 2023 clarify that in England: The new regulatory regime applicable to the design and construction of higher-risk buildings will also apply to care homes and hospitals, but not hotels or military accommodation; and The new regulatory regime applicable during the occupation of higher- risk buildings will not apply to care homes, hospitals, hotels or military accommodation. Corresponding legislation is under consultation in Wales. These new regulatory regimes will: Introduce an approval process for building control and planning matters; Require maintenance of the ‘golden thread’ of information during design and construction; Require registration of each higher-risk building prior to occupation; and Submission of key building information to the Building Safety Regulator. Key building information The BSA introduced the concept of the ‘Accountable Person’. Hoccom explains: “An Accountable Person is subject to the duties arising from managing building safety risks during the occupation of a higher-risk building, including the submission of information to the Building Safety Regulator (Regulator). “The Key Building Information (KBI) Regulations 2023, which came into force
The Building Safety Act has two new developments pertaining to higher-risk buildings and ‘Accountable Persons’ that are of importance to FMB members HIGHER-RISK DEVELOPMENTS
on 6 April 2023, clarify that the landlord of a residential unit let on a long lease is the Accountable Person, unless the role is performed by a commonhold; for example, a residents’ association. It is unlikely that the builder of a higher- risk building will be an Accountable Person unless they own an interest in the freehold of the property. The Accountable Person must, throughout the lifetime of a building: Submit key building information to the Regulator within 28-days of an application for the registration of a higher-risk building; and Notify the Regulator within 28-days of any change to that information. Key building information must be provided in electronic form, and includes, for example, descriptions of the material(s) used in the composition of the external wall, insulation and roof – split in percentage terms where multiple materials are used. “Whilst it is unclear how this will work in practice, employers will likely impose contractual duties on builders to maintain
comprehensive records of materials used in the construction of higher-risk buildings,” Hoccom says. “The extent to which these contractual duties may overlap with the duties imposed on builders to maintain the ‘golden thread’ of information during the design and construction of higher-risk buildings is unknown as the Government has yet to respond to the recently closed consultation on the ‘golden thread’.” The next 12 months “If members are not involved in the construction of higher-risk buildings, these recent developments are unlikely a concern,” Hoccom argues. But the next 12 months will be important for FMB members. “After the Government consultations regarding the building control process, the next 12 months are likely to bring changes that will affect any form of construction work being carried out, whether in relation to higher-risk buildings or not”. The FMB will continue to provide updates about changes that may affect member companies.
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Master Builder
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INTERVIEW RAY STAFFORD
I n the last four years, tool crime has more than doubled. It went from one incident every 23 minutes in 2018 to the current statistic of one every nine minutes. And van manufacturers, insurers, after-market security providers, the wider construction industry, law enforcement – and even tradespeople – could do more to tackle the problem. So says Ray Stafford, Founder of Van Watch, a not-for-profit organisation committed to reducing tool theft, particularly those stolen from vans. Often considered unique to urban areas, Stafford says tool theft is spreading into more remote locations. “Our postcode analysis showed that apart from extremely rural areas such as the north of Scotland and parts of West Wales where the population is small, the issue seems to be fairly universal.” Van Watch is working with the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC), the UK Police’s Business Crime Unit – and the theory is that tool theft is often associated with activities of county lines drug gangs. “Let’s face it, no one steals tools because they want tools,” Stafford says. “They do it for the money they can get from selling tools. The illegal drug business sits closely alongside, if not completely parallel, to tool theft – whether it’s opportunistic or crime carried out on a much more organised level. As that spreads into the sticks, so do associated crimes.”
Tool theft, often out of vans, will continue to get worse unless tradespeople and the broader industry take drastic action, says a key campaigner for improved tool safety DAYLIGHT ROBBERY
them down”. Of course, your van might still be broken into but at least you’ve kept your tools safer. 3. Check your insurance – go through insurance policy exemptions with a keen eye on details as roughly a third of tradespeople aren’t covered for tool theft by their current insurance, Stafford explains. “That's usually because the insurance policy
happen during the day and away from the tool owner’s home. “It’s at merchant car parks, hotel car parks, fast food outlets,” Stafford says. He advises tradespeople to follow these best practices:
the working day and when away from home. 2. Install a tool safe in your van – Stafford recommends locking tools in heavy-duty boxes from suppliers such as ArmourGuard or ToughBox. Additionally, set a decoy by keeping a few more Milwaukee, Bosch or DeWalt boxes visible “with a couple of bricks stored inside to weigh
1. Don’t leave tools in your van – when possible, remove tools from your van, even during
Keep your tools safe Around half of all tool thefts
Ray Stafford
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