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STANDING OVATION R & M Williams is the overall winner of the 2025 Master Builder Awards for its reinvigoration of a famous Welsh theatre
INSULATING CONVERSATION How to speak with your clients about strategic use of insulation
10 YEARS ON Safet Mustafaj shares advice after a decade in the business
A TIME OF TRANSFORMATION Outgoing FMB National President Chris Carr reflects on his journey
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IPEB([SHUWDGYLFHDQGVXSSRUWB[LQGG MasterBuilder.AugSept21.042.indd 4
13/07/2021 11:13
Contents OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2025 Industry update
Features
22 10 years on Safet Mustafaj, Managing Director of S & M Solutions in London, shares his key lessons and practical advice after a decade of running a growing business 24 Boldly built and beautiful Learn more about all of the impressive people and innovative projects that won at the 2025 National Master Builder Awards, showcasing the significant work that FMB members are doing across the UK – from sustainable builds and sensitive renovations to training the next generation
20
7 Welcome
The Master Builder Awards are the Oscars of the construction industry
8 News
The latest headlines from the industry
12 A time of transformation
Outgoing National President Chris Carr reflects on his FMB journey
Your FMB
13 Build Britain better
Alison McGovern MP, Minister of State for Employment, plans to reshape Jobcentre Plus to support construction bosses
38 Member update
Welcome to the new members that have joined the FMB, after successfully meeting all of the required standards
14 What’s up at Westminster?
The FMB continues to push for reforms that matter most to members
40 Celebrating partnerships
15 Housing target practice Economist Tom Hall calls the government’s housebuilding goal an impossible challenge 17 Building better businesses
The FMB helps members to connect with businesses in the construction industry to further their growth and development
17
43 Futureproof your builds
Builder hosts Aidan Cropper and David Gutierrez on why the Build Up podcast is good for members
Latent defects insurance is key to clients’ confidence and safeguarding your reputation in the future
24
44 Member news
Business support
Find out what is happening around the UK with updates from members in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland
20 Insulating conversation
How to speak to clients about using insulation strategically
49 Five in five
Rapid-fire Q&A with FMB members Iain Kernahan of O’Mac Construction and Ashley Marks of AR Marks Contracts Limited
21 H&S round-up
Keeping you and your team safe on site
Advertising Advertising enquiries connections@fmb.org.uk
Editorial Editor Bradford Keen
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 FMB Marketing Department Radhika Tripathi, Robyn Williams and Toby Bowers Designer David McCullough Picture editor Jessica Marsh Publishing director Joanna Marsh Production Production manager Aysha Miah-Edwards +44 (0)20 7880 6241 aysha.miah@redactive.co.uk
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FEDERATION OF MASTER BUILDERS David Croft House 25 Ely Place London EC1N 6TD Tel: 020 7025 2900 www.fmb.org.uk
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Welcome BRIAN BERRY
I t’s no exaggeration to say the Master Builder Awards are the Oscars of the building industry and, in this edition, we showcase what excellence looks like in practice (pages 24-37). Thanks to our sponsors as they make the awards happen, with special mention of our headline sponsor Isuzu UK Ltd for donating the main prize – an Isuzu pick-up truck – and our media sponsor Fix Radio for shouting about the awards. On to the pressing matter of skills and labour gaps in our industry. We know from our own surveys that there are shortages in key trades, particularly bricklaying and plastering. On page 13, Minister of State for Employment Alison McGovern MP shares exclusive insight with the FMB on how a shake-up of Jobcentre Plus will enable construction bosses to bolster their workforces. We get a member’s perspective on page 22 from Safet Mustafaj of S&M Solutions Ltd as he reflects on the lessons he has learnt after 10 years in business. We also meet builder hosts of the FMB’s Build Up podcast series, David Gutierrez and Aidan Cropper, finding out why the podcast is a powerful tool to make members’ voices heard (page 17). It’s not just skills that builders are talking about; the dismal state of the housebuilding market, especially for SME and micro housebuilders, is a pressing concern. Over the last 40 years the percentage of all new homes built by SME housebuilders has fallen from 40 per cent to just nine
“It’s not just skills that builders are talking about; the dismal state of the housebuilding market, especially for SME and micro housebuilders, is a pressing concern.”
per cent. The government has committed to build one and a half million new homes by 2029, but given we haven’t built 300,000 new homes in one year since the late 1960s the target is looking increasingly optimistic. Economist Tom Hall says a jolt is needed to shake the housebuilding sector out of its malaise (page 15) and notes that the government’s housing target is looking near impossible. Accompanying this Jeremy Gray, the FMB’s Head of External Affairs, continues to keep us informed from the heart of government in ‘Word at Westminster’. This month kickstarts the party conference season and the FMB will be at the main events championing members’ issues including skills and training, housebuilding, retrofit, and a business environment that encourages growth. Finally, this month it’s all about change at the FMB. Chris Carr, FMB National President and Chair of the National Board, steps down after two dynamic years. On page 12, Chris outlines his impressive journey in the industry and at the FMB, helping to raise its influence and profile on the issues that matter to members. Chris will continue to drive the FMB’s strategic business plan, ‘Project Growth’, which he spearheaded.
BRIAN BERRY, Chief Executive Federation of Master Builders
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CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY NEWS
BSR guidance released
T he Construction Leadership aimed at easing the Gateway 2 application process for high-rise residential projects in England. The guidance outlines core principles for submitting and assessing building control approval applications for buildings officially designated as higher-risk – defined as Council (CLC), in partnership with the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), has published industry guidance
risk buildings in October 2023, introducing a three-gateway system: planning, control approval, and final completion. Tim Galloway, Deputy Director at the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), which oversees the BSR, said: “We’ve supported construction industry leaders to write guidance that speaks industry’s language.” He added that clearer and compliant applications help projects to move more quickly from paper to site.
multi-occupancy structures over 18 metres or seven storeys. It’s available on the CLC website and was developed with input from industry stakeholders, regulators, and technical experts. It comes after months of complaints from developers and contractors about slow approvals and frequent application rejections due to procedural missteps under the BSR’s new regime. The BSR became the sole building control authority for higher-
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NEWS IN NUMBERS
The FMB commits to Conflict Avoidance Pledge
40,000 The number of homes to be built on disused railway land. Source: National Federation of Builders
T
costs of disputes through better conflict management. Conflict Avoidance Coalition President Len Bunton, said: “I am
he FMB has added its name to a campaign for collaborative working by signing the Conflict Avoidance Pledge (CAP).
delighted that the FMB has re-signed the Conflict Avoidance Pledge and to support the work of the coalition. This is an excellent example of collaboration aimed at reducing the number of disputes which harm the FMB’s members and damage the reputation of the construction industry.”
The pledge originated from the Conflict Avoidance Coalition which brings together more than 100 leading organisations including public bodies, contractors, consultants, and professional institutions that are united in a shared mission: to reduce the financial, reputational, and relational
£26.70 The hourly rate to be paid to top tier electrical technicians working in London’s transport sector after a 3.95% increase comes into force in January 2026. Source: Unite the Union
W est Lothian Council has given the go- ahead for a new battery energy storage system (BESS) near Bathgate, marking the first planning consent secured by renewable energy firm Galileo Empower. Located on Middlerigg Farm, beside the A801 between Bathgate and Armadale, the 49.9MW facility will store excess electricity when demand is low and discharge it back into the grid during peak periods. The goal is to stabilise the electricity network and enhance the efficiency of renewable energy use. “This type of infrastructure is essential as we transition from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources,” said Laura Petrie, Project Manager Battery boost
at Galileo Empower. She noted the
system’s potential to “play a critical
role in tackling climate change and supporting Scotland to achieve its net-zero target.” Petrie also emphasised the local impact of the development, pointing to job creation, skill- building opportunities, and a planned community benefit fund. “We are confident that this project will bring considerable economic and environmental benefits to West Lothian,” she said. “We look forward to continuing to engage with the Council and local communities as we progress the consented project.”
7% The percentage by which private housing output is forecast to grow in 2026.
Source: Construction Products Association
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INDUSTRY UPDATE NEWS
Insulation overhaul T he government has launched a major initiative to tackle widespread issues with solid wall insulation (SWI) installed
these schemes failed to meet acceptable standards. Fahnbulleh noted that Ofgem has contacted 60,000 affected consumers and that remediation is underway, with “thousands of households” already having had on-site checks. As many as 90 per cent of poor-quality installations have been remediated. Updated standards The government also pointed to the implementation of updated standards – PAS 2035/2030:2023 – as a step forward. These include mandatory site visits by retrofit coordinators and higher qualification thresholds for designers. The newly established Retrofit System Reform Panel will meet every six weeks for a year, gathering insights from industry leaders such as Brian Berry (Federation of Master Builders), Charlotte Lee (Heat Pump Association), and Lynne Sullivan (National Retrofit Hub), among others. Fahnbulleh stressed that deeper reform is on the way: “An overhaul of the retrofit system and the consumer protection landscape is urgently required.”
under recent energy efficiency schemes. This follows a wave of complaints from homeowners who say poorly installed insulation has led to damp, mould, and ventilation issues in their homes. The problems surfaced earlier this year when 39 firms were suspended from installing insulation under the Energy Company Obligation 4 (ECO4) and the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS). Now, the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (DESNZ) is conducting a full audit to determine the extent of the damage. Energy Consumers Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh acknowledged the situation as a “systemic failure” and announced the formation of an expert advisory panel to drive reform. “We have taken immediate action to improve the oversight of installations whilst we bring forward root and branch reforms on the wider consumer protection system,” Fahnbulleh said. Preliminary audit data indicates that most SWI installations under
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Cladding deadline law
NEWS IN NUMBERS
L andlords who fail to remove dangerous cladding from high-rise buildings face under new legislation announced by the government. The upcoming Remediation Bill will impose strict legal deadlines, backed by a £1 billion funding package and expanded enforcement powers. Under the proposed law, buildings unlimited fines or imprisonment over 18 metres must be fully remediated by the end of 2029. Properties between 11 and 18 metres have until the end of 2031. Failure to comply without a valid excuse could result in prosecution. Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said the bill “sends a clear message to landlords” that unsafe buildings will not be tolerated. The move forms part of the government’s wider Remediation Acceleration Plan, which is entering its second phase with this legislative push and financial backing. The bill will also empower Homes England and local councils to step in and carry out works directly if landlords do not take action. A new National Remediation System will
be introduced to monitor progress and ensure accountability. Social housing providers will now gain equal access to remediation funds, removing prior funding disparities between councils and private landlords. “These new rules remove excuses and create a clear path to fix every unsafe building in England,” said Building Safety Minister Alex Norris. Additional support for leaseholders is included, such as funding to replace costly Waking Watch arrangements. In rare cases, even buildings under 11 metres could qualify for financial aid if deemed necessary. The government is also investing over £5 million to help local authorities and metro mayors implement tailored remediation plans. From October 2026, a new Building Safety Levy is expected to generate £3.4 billion over the next 10 years, with exemptions for affordable and supported housing, as well as smaller developments. Since the plan’s initial launch in December 2024, more than 24,000 residents have been moved into safer homes – a figure ministers say must continue rising.
800,000 The number of bulk bags made entirely from recycled – and fully recyclable – polypropylene to be distributed annually. Source: Bag suppliers MKM
£75m The amount going to hospices across England to upgrade facilities as part of the government’s wider £100 million commitment. Source: Department of Health and Social Care
59% Percentage by which new home registrations in London dropped in Q2 2025, although UK-wide showed an increase of 4% compared
with Q2 2024. Source: NHBC
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FMB PRESIDENTIAL HANDOVER
After two impactful years as National President and Chair of the FMB, Chris Carr is stepping down, bringing to a close a pivotal chapter in the organisation’s evolution B ack in 1990, Chris Carr walked into a district branch meeting of the FMB’s Yorkshire & Trent region, full of enthusiasm and A TIME OF TRANSFORMATION
be honest and true. No one will ever pull you up on being honest and true. If you’re passionate, that comes across far more than anything else.” Taking on a leadership role at the FMB brings benefits – personal and professional – but there is a significant time commitment for high-level positions, Carr says, noting that the National Presidency demands dedication and focus. Nevertheless, he encourages others to pursue leadership roles. “It’s a simple truth but the more you put in, the more you get out.” All about members As Carr concludes his two-year tenure as President and Chair, he is confident about the FMB’s trajectory, commending the FMB’s growing government influence and elevated media profile. His vision for continued membership growth centres on engagement: “Members need to know they’re not just a number on a balance sheet.” Stepping down, Carr leaves behind a transformed culture, rooted in openness, pride, and member representation. His advice to younger members considering involvement in the FMB? “Remember, it’s not a short-term thing. It’s for the long haul.” Carr’s departure marks a significant milestone for the FMB as he hands over the reins to Phillip Hall, National Vice President and Director of Hall Construction Ltd in Oxfordshire, but the cultural shift he’s helped to engineer will guide the organisation well into the future.
curiosity. Thirty-five years later, he leaves a legacy built on grassroots involvement and long-term vision. That initial meeting marked the beginning of a remarkable journey through the FMB’s ranks – a journey Carr describes as “the end of a long road.” From local participant to Regional President, to National Board member, and ultimately to his dual appointment in 2023 as National President and Chair of the Board, Carr’s ascent gave him a deep understanding of the FMB and, most importantly, of its members. Throughout his leadership, Carr has followed a guiding principle: Always put members first. “We represent our members. That’s our job as directors of the organisation.” Working with the FMB’s key office- holders and Chief Executive Brian Berry, Carr ensured that every strategic decision served members’ best interests. The launch of the FMB’s three- year strategic plan ‘Project Growth’, for example, was based on extensive membership engagement and feedback. Open access Key to Carr’s approach has been commitments to transparency and communication, which has helped to transform the FMB into an approachable, member-driven organisation. “Now people actively try to get onto their national and
Chris Carr
regional boards because the culture has changed,” he says. Accessibility and a willingness to listen have been hallmarks of Carr’s leadership style. His open-door policy extended beyond formal channels, making himself available to members at every level, from regional leaders to individual contractors. “I’ve always had lots of members phoning me on my mobile,” he says. “My number’s out there for whatever they need. I believe true representation requires direct connection with those being served.” Carr has always encouraged members to embrace their FMB affiliation with pride. Under his leadership, members increasingly became ambassadors for the FMB, displaying logos and wearing branded merchandise as symbols of their professional identity. When it comes to media engagement, Carr’s advice is straightforward: “Just
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RECRUITMENT SUPPORT
I also know the industry is facing a critical skills shortage. That’s where our Sector-based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) come in. SWAPs offer pre-employment training, work experience, and a guaranteed job interview – tailored to the role and your needs. It’s a practical way for businesses to trial candidates and fill skills gaps. We’re making a record-breaking 100,000 SWAP placements available in 2025/26. SWAPs and our talented work coaches show what’s already working. But we know there’s more to do. Current data shows 79 per cent of employers haven’t contacted or received information from DWP in the past year. That’s not good enough – and we’re determined to change it. Job-ready candidates We’ve already taken action. We’re giving businesses a single point of contact in jobcentres and have created a dedicated team focused on employer needs. This team supports tailored recruitment campaigns and helps deliver training in high-growth sectors – ensuring candidates are job-ready. But this is just the beginning of a broader transformation. As set out in our Get Britain Working White Paper , we are creating a new jobs and careers service – one that’s locally tailored and designed with employers. We want a system where all businesses, large and small, choose to engage with Jobcentre Plus because it delivers what they need. To build this better service, we’ll be undertaking a structured engagement programme with employers this year. If you’d like to work with us – whether that’s setting up a SWAP or receiving recruitment support – please contact the Employer Services Line. I want jobcentres to be where people access the best jobs, and construction offers just that. I want jobcentres to be the recruiter of choice for industry. That’s why we’re delivering reform now to support
BUILD BRITAIN BETTER Alison McGovern MP, Minister of State for Employment, shares exclusive insight with the FMB on how the government is reshaping Jobcentre Plus to support construction bosses
I t’s clear that to get Britain growing again, we must get Britain building again. That’s why we’ve committed to delivering one and a half million homes in England by the end of this parliament and announced £39 billion for affordable social housing in the recent Spending Review. But building more homes means backing the construction industry with the workforce it needs. That’s why we’re investing £625 million to train 60,000 new construction workers by 2029. And at the Department for Work and Pensions, we’re clear: Jobcentre Plus will be at the heart of delivering this ambition. We’ve signed a refreshed partnership agreement with the Construction Industry
Training Board (CITB) that empowers jobcentres to work more closely with the construction sector, offering work experience and tailored placements that meet both employer and jobseeker needs. I want to talk directly to you, construction employers, about how your local jobcentre can help your business. Across the country, our 600+ jobcentres and thousands of skilled work coaches are ready to provide free recruitment support to help with: ● sifting candidates; ● delivering pre-employment training; ● promoting vacancies to active jobseekers; and ● hosting interviews and recruitment events at jobcentres.
you with the talent you need to fill roles, grow, and build. This article has been edited for length. Scan the QR code to read the full text.
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THE WORD AT WESTMINSTER
Jeremy Gray, Head of External Affairs at the FMB
Iona Stewart-Richardson, Media Manager at the FMB
Mark Garnier MP
Tom Hall, Chief Economist at Aqua Consultants
Richard Quigley MP
WHAT’S UP AT WESTMINSTER?
The summer break has meant a relatively silent period in government, but that provides the opportunity to focus on FMB output of a different sort – our podcast, says the FMB’s Head of External Affairs Jeremy Gray T here has not been much word from government ministers over the summer after they headed off to their constituencies. But ● Our ongoing campaign to bring about a mandatory licensing scheme in UK construction;
with a political spin. In it, we seek opinions from industry leaders and politicians. Hosted by the FMB’s External Affairs team, this deep-dive podcast unpacks everything shaping the construction industry – from planning policy and economics to issues much closer to home for the nation’s small builders. If you’re in the trades and want to know what the people in charge are up to and what their motivations are then this is the podcast you should to listen to. Scan the QR code to watch the recordings of past episodes.
● Housing, with a specific emphasis on skills as the government struggles to find enough people to build homes. In my next update, we’ll sink our teeth into the government’s post-budget policies and how the industry reacted. Build Up from the Basement Westminster may have been quiet, but we’ve been talking to MPs about their interest in building via our Build Up from the Basement podcast – a special series
by the time you are reading this edition of Master Builder , the party conferences will have come and gone. As with every year, parties of all colours will have made promises and commitments for years to come. Of course, it will take some time before we can appraise how close those sentiments came to reality. Despite the quieter summer period, the FMB has continued its efforts to elevate the causes of members, focusing on:
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INDUSTRY ANALYSIS
HOUSING TARGET PRACTICE
What is needed to jolt the housing market out of its malaise? asks Tom Hall, Chief Economist at Aqua Consultants
T he Labour
performing marginally better than expected, we’re unlikely to see further reductions in interest rates this year – so mortgage affordability is not going to improve quickly. It’s hard to see where large amounts of public money will come from with tight fiscal headroom constraining investment. What should be done? A government subsidy to boost demand may be back on the table. The help-to-buy scheme, which heavily subsidised first-time buyers, was the primary reason for the boost in housebuilding in the 2010s and pulled the industry out of its post-2008 financial crisis slump. The scheme papered over the cracks of the lack of household income growth, allowing people to borrow to afford houses as an alternative to building up large deposits. Could we see a new or adapted version? Regardless, economic news is not all bad. The economy has been performing more strongly than expected, plus over the last 18 months households have been saving at record levels, repairing their run- down finances. At some point higher levels of consumption will resume, with indicators suggesting this is starting to happen already. Nonetheless, all eyes will be on the budget to see what can be done to stimulate housing demand – otherwise coming close to the one and half million homes target, even as an aspiration, will be impossible.
do supply issues always get all the blame? Maybe that is starting to change. The housing market is suffering from a lack of demand. The cost-of- living crisis over 2021-24 created the longest ever squeeze in real incomes. Over recent years, inflation has remained high, particularly on essentials, which sucks up disposable income from people’s paychecks. Interest rates hikes to combat inflation has made credit more expensive. People are moving less. Homeowners are getting older as houses become less affordable. Older people move house less frequently. It now takes longer to build equity (due to the above constraints). In the past, large increases in house prices and periods of high inflation boosted equity and shrunk mortgages in real terms. All this has created an affordability crisis that has sucked demand out of the housing market. With the confirmation of higher inflation over the last few months and the economy
Tom Hall
Party made the building of one and a half million
homes over the course of this parliament one of its key manifesto pledges. While this looked highly optimistic a year ago, it now looks impossible. There have been several positive developments that shouldn’t be forgotten: ● £39bn is to be spent over the next decade on affordable and social housing, which exceeds previous funding levels; ● planning reform should alleviate some bottlenecks; ● removing environmental regulations will reduce restrictions to getting projects underway; and ● initiatives are underway to attract labour to the industry and improve productivity. While forward-looking metrics have risen from low levels, the increase will be nowhere near enough to come close to achieving the government’s housebuilding target. In fact, housing starts in England saw a significant fall in 2024 (see graph) – a drop comparable to the period of the financial crisis. What about demand? Some will blame the increases in business taxes, such as rising employer contributions. Higher materials and labour costs are potentially squeezing margins. But why
Housing starts and completions in England, 2002-2025
200,000
160,000
120,000
80,000
Completions Starts
40,000
Source: MHCLG
0
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SPOTLIGHT MEMBER VOICES
R unning a business can feel like navigating a construction site without a blueprint: complex, unpredictable, and often isolating. That’s why the Build Up podcast helps. Builder hosts David Gutierrez and Aidan Cropper speak with experts and peers to tackle challenges and find practical solutions. Gutierrez, Director of Sutton- based Nest Building Group Ltd, says: “I enjoy being a builder host as I can give boots-on-the-ground input to the conversation, and share my experiences to help others. “Co-hosting with Aidan gives the perfect mix of views from different parts of the UK, which I think is very important for the listeners.” That mix ensures the podcast reflects the breadth of the FMB membership, from regional markets to nationwide industry. Cropper, Managing Director of IPSUM UK Ltd in Nottingham, says: “The builder guests we’ve had have such compelling stories, and their journeys often resonate with the one David and I are on. Some have sparked changes in my own business; for example, after speaking with an AI expert, I implemented some of the practices we discussed.” Regarding standout episodes, both hosts point to moments where the conversation deepened members’ understanding and offered immediate takeaways. Gutierrez recalls Working with Clients – How to Build Trust and Win Work as especially impactful. “We all seemed to gel, which made the conversation flow. It was helpful hearing what Paula Higgins, CEO
BUILDING BETTER BUSINESSES
The FMB’s Build Up podcast amplifies members’ voices and provides crucial support
The podcast’s value lies in connecting members to resources, perspectives and experiences. “It gives insight into what’s going on in our industry and what the FMB offers that perhaps members didn’t know before,” says Gutierrez. Cropper adds: “Running a business can feel isolating, especially when you don’t know what support is out there. Even if a listener takes away just one tip from an episode, it could help them avoid a major mistake.” The Build Up podcast can be found on the FMB app for members, and also on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.
at HomeOwners Alliance had to say about guiding consumers on costs. I didn’t even know that kind of support existed until that episode. There was so much to take from it – I can only imagine how helpful it will be for those tuning in.” For Cropper, the most powerful moment came during a more personal exchange. “I’d say the episode where David and I discussed our own businesses and journeys. It gave us the chance to open up – not just about successes, but about struggles like burnout, finding staff, and navigating the challenges of building a business.”
Aidan Cropper
David Gutierrez
Season two is available this autumn
● AI for builders –
Lambert Home Builds on how a retrofit focus has grown her business. ● Financing your growth – Robin Hayhurst of Property Projects Consultants Ltd on funding and investment.
Builder Awards. ● Guide to retrofit – Rachel Owens of National Retrofit Hub on how to speak with clients about retrofit. ● Getting into retrofit – Nikki Lambert of
Kulveer Singh Sanghera of City Lofts London. ● Builders’ success stories – Dorian Bowen of Project One, winners of the Kitchen Project and Large Renovation at the 2025 Cymru Master
construction coach Greg Wilkes on AI for small businesses.
● Marketing your
business – Chris Shaw of T D G Contracts Limited (EveryTrade) and
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Master Builder
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ADVERTORIAL METAL STUD GENIE
FROM FRUSTRATION
W ith more than 30 years in the dry lining and ceiling trade, Paul McGarragle has spent a lot of time on building sites – and thinking about how to make them work better. “I still remember being 22,” he says, “crawling on my hands and knees, struggling to hold everything in place while trying to fix a stud or ceiling section. I kept thinking, there has to be a better way.” That thought stuck with him. Decades later, that mindset – equal parts frustration and
Paul McGarragle’s Metal Stud Genie and MF Genie 400 are two tools designed by a builder for builders – making their lives simpler and their work more efficient
the product of real-life site experience, designed to make daily jobs more efficient for sole tradespeople and small- team builders. The MF Genie 400, for instance, is a hands-free support tool for installing MF-5 ceiling systems. Instead of having to balance the MF-5 section on your shoulder or head while marking and fixing, the Genie clips onto your trim or primary channel, holding everything in place at 400mm - 600mm. This frees up both hands, speeds up the fixing process, and reduces the usual
ambition – has led to the creation of two practical tools that aim to help small builders across the UK transform the way they install metal stud partitions and MF ceilings. The Metal Stud Genie and the MF Genie 400 are two simple but clever tools designed to save builders time, reduce physical strain, and – perhaps more importantly – let one person do the job of two. McGarragle’s not a product developer by trade. He’s a dryliner, a ceiling installer, and a builder. That’s what makes his tools different; they’re
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Master Builder
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ADVERTORIAL
tools give smaller teams a better shot at hitting deadlines without compromising quality. The good news is that support doesn’t end with the product. McGarragle is taking the Genie tools on the road to UK trade shows with mock- up walls and ceilings to show exactly how the tools work in practice. He’s also investing in online resources – including Q&A guides and instructional videos – and plans to launch a Facebook user group where installers can share tips. So what’s next? McGarragle is not standing still. He’s already refining the Metal Stud Genie with variable magnet strengths and plans to make it compatible with Metsec SFS wall systems. “There’s always room to improve,” he says, “and I’m always listening to what builders say they need.” It’s that blend of practical experience and constant innovation that sets McGarragle’s innovations apart. These aren’t tools built in a lab. They’re built on-site, born from
at either 400mm or 600mm intervals. That means no more measuring, clamping, adjusting – just click into place and fix. The magnetic mechanism saves time, of course, and removes one of the more awkward and tiring parts of the job: working on your knees, struggling to hold components in place while trying to align them. And because the Genie does the spacing for you, there’s far less chance of human error – helping builders stay within spec and compliant with manufacturer installation guidelines. One builder, one tool These days, skilled labour is increasingly hard to come by and labour costs are rising – and McGarragle’s tools offer a pragmatic solution. By allowing one person to do the work of two, both the Metal Stud Genie and MF Genie 400 offer major time and cost savings. For sole traders or small teams, that can make all the difference between squeezing a job in this week or pushing it to the next. “I’ve had contractors in the Middle East saying that
once you’ve got the system set up, even semi-skilled labour can install walls accurately and efficiently,” McGarragle says. “That’s a big deal when you’re facing labour shortages or trying to manage tight deadlines.” McGarragle says feedback
from contractors who have been trialling the
tools shows a significant increase in productivity – with some reporting a full day saved across large ceiling or wall installs. The ambition behind the Genie tools isn’t just about time-saving; it’s also about accessibility. “A lot of small builders don’t always have an extra pair of hands available,” he says. “And even when they do, you want those hands doing something useful – not just holding a bit of metal in place.” That’s why both tools are being embraced by sole traders and smaller outfits who are often under pressure to deliver with fewer resources. By simplifying some of the most fiddly and time- consuming parts of drylining and ceiling work, McGarragle’s
TO
years of trial, error, and the belief that good tools should make life easier. INNOVATION
physical awkwardness of the job.
“It also acts like a dead man,” McGarragle says, “supporting the edge of the plasterboard while you’re fixing it. That’s normally a two-man job, but with the Genie, one person can handle it easily.” It’s the same principle with the Metal Stud Genie, which works with a range of wall products including C Stud, I Stud, Gypliner, and brackets. Once your base and top tracks are in place, the Genie uses powerful magnets to hold vertical studs precisely
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Master Builder
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BUSINESS SUPPORT INSULATION BEST PRACTICE
Nik Nelberg hard at work
Talking about insulation with clients can be tricky – especially
when it’s not top of their list of priorities – but the conversation can’t be skipped
AN INSULATING CONVERSATION
W hen taking on a home they want to live in their space. “Often, they’ll mention cold rooms or discomfort – those are natural in-roads to start discussing insulation,” says Nik Nelberg, Managing Director of London- based Earl & Calam Design and Build Ltd. His advice: don’t start with the spec sheet; go with your clients’ feel of the space. Once the lived experience is on the table, clients are more receptive to ideas that improve comfort long-term. Even if insulation isn’t in the current budget, it needs to be part of the design conversation. Nelberg’s team, who’ve improvement job, the first point to address with your clients is finding out how completed retrofit training, routinely recommend futureproofing details. “If we’re doing a loft, we might extend the eaves slightly so there’s room for future external wall insulation,” he explains. “It doesn’t add a huge cost, but it sets the building up for success.” These small decisions can significantly reduce disruption down the line, and show clients that you’re thinking ahead. “The building is always the starting point,” Nelberg says. Consider its age, construction and detailing as these factors will shape what type of insulation options you provide to your client. For instance:
● Victorian homes with ornate exteriors might be better suited to internal breathable insulation; while ● 1980s homes with tired facades can benefit from external wall insulation (EWI) and a fresh look. But it’s never just about the walls. “You have to think about moisture,” Nelberg warns. “Older homes relied on draughts and open fireplaces to manage humidity. Seal everything up without good ventilation and you’ll get mould.” Which is why a holistic approach is vital.
“Modern builds are designed this way. But with retrofits, it needs to be done carefully,” Nelberg says. Forget ROI – sell comfort While rising energy bills have made clients more insulation-aware, Nelberg avoids talking about ‘payback. “Those figures often don’t hold up. Instead, we talk about stability – having a home that stays comfortable, works quietly, and feels better to live in.” He tells of one retrofit project where the client’s energy supplier kept reducing their direct debit. “They’re still on a gas boiler, but the house is set up for low energy use and future upgrades like a heat pump.” Nelberg says one his favourite projects is a full retrofit that his team completed in South London. “The loft was freezing, the conservatory unusable. We made it airtight, installed a full ventilation system, underfloor heating and external wall insulation with a white silicate render and black timber detailing.” It transformed the property from being cold and ordinary into an award-winning. home, Nelberg explains. Thinking about insulation in this way enables builders to lead clients towards a happier home. Having informed conversations about insulation – grounded in how people live – helps clients to unlock their home’s full potential.
Key questions to ask include: ● How’s the house heated? ● Will it be airtight? ● What’s the plan for ventilation?
Core insulation considerations ● Plan roof/eaves to accommodate future external wall insulation. ● Combine airtightness with MVHR or other ventilation strategies. ● Choose insulation based on the building’s fabric and breathability. ● Take a whole-house view: heating, insulation and ventilation all working together. ● Engage the client early to avoid mid-build surprises.
Master Builder 20
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BUSINESS SUPPORT HEALTH & SAFETY
The latest news and updates on health and safety in construction to keep you and your workforce safe on site HEALTH SAFETY &
Silicosis warning: severe health threat Engineered stone has been linked to a rise in silicosis, an irreversible and potentially fatal lung disease. The high concentration of silica (up to 97 per cent) in this material, compared to natural stone, means that when it’s cut or processed, it releases hazardous respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust. Health experts are comparing the growing crisis to asbestosis, but with one key difference: the onset of severe illness is happening much faster. The UK has seen its first cases of this ‘accelerated silicosis’, with workers as young as 34 developing the disease after just a few years of exposure. The majority of affected individuals are young, often self- employed or migrant workers, who may not be fully aware of the risks or have inadequate safety measures in place. Australia has already banned engineered stone and in the UK, experts are calling for better education and enforcement of safety protocols such as using water suppression, proper ventilation and extraction, and providing suitable respiratory protective equipment (RPE). Scan the QR code for the All Party Parliamentary Group
Workplace deaths are on the decline
all sectors was falls from a height, which accounted for over a quarter of all worker deaths. With 45 per cent of the construction deaths being self-employed operatives, it’s crucial for all contractors and their teams to prioritise health and safety practices. Scan the QR code to add Safety Plus to your
Figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) show a significant reduction in construction workplace fatalities. From April 2024 to March 2025, there were 35 deaths in the sector, a drop of almost one third from the previous year’s figure of 51. This is the lowest number recorded since 2021/22 and a joint-record low. Nevertheless, construction still accounts for the highest number of workplace deaths across all industries, representing 28 per cent of the total 124 fatalities. This is as a stark reminder of the ongoing importance of health and safety protection measures. The most common cause of fatal injuries across
subscription for health and safety support.
BSR to be overhauled for efficiency
The BSR has faced scrutiny, particularly from a House of Lords inquiry, after it was revealed via a Freedom of Information request that most applications were being delayed far beyond the 12-week legal requirement. The government hopes these reforms will streamline the system, reduce bureaucracy, and restore confidence in the regulatory body. Scan the QR code for FMB support and
The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is being moved out of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to become a standalone body under the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). This ‘shake-up’ is a response to widespread frustration over delays in approving higher-risk building projects. The government’s reforms include a Fast Track Process to speed up new- build applications and an extra 100 staff members to clear the backlog. A leadership team, headed by former London Fire Brigade Commissioner Andy Roe, has been appointed.
resources in relation to the Building Safety Act and the BSR.
for Respiratory Health’s report.
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INTERVIEW SAFET MUSTAFAJ
10
Safet Mustafaj of S & M Solutions Ltd reflects on the shifts he’s seen and the choices he’s made that have shaped his company over the last decade YEARSON
T en years leading a business is no small feat, especially in a sector as dynamic as the UK’s construction industry. For Safet Mustafaj, Managing Director of London-based S & M Solutions Ltd, the past decade has taught him resilience and the value of doing things the right way. Since founding the business, Mustafaj has seen major shifts, from evolving client expectations and regulatory tightening to the unpredictability of economic cycles. A recurring challenge, he notes, has been bridging the gap between cost and value. “There’s been a push for more for less,” he says. “That led to undercutting and disappointing results. We’ve stayed focused on quality, choosing projects carefully and educating clients about long-term value.” That strategic narrowing of focus has helped S & M Solutions stay stable – even when the market hasn’t been. “We’ve built a reputation for high-quality design-and- build projects with a personal hands-on approach. That’s what brings clients back.” For Mustafaj, riding out material shortages, cost spikes, and labour instability comes down to smart job selection and lasting relationships. “It’s easy to cut corners
Compliance, standards, and complex jobs can feel like obstacles, but for Mustafaj, they’re part of building well. “You can’t deliver a great project if it doesn’t meet the right standards,” he says. “Having full oversight helps us manage complexity and spot issues early.” That control allows for better communication. “Clients want clarity, not to be caught between designer, builder, and supplier. We align everything.” With 10 years behind him, Mustafaj shares pragmatic advice: “Don’t chase every job. The right work comes when you stick to your standards. Build slow, build solid. Reputation is everything – and you earn it job by job.” Visibility matters too. “You can be great, but if no one knows about you, it doesn’t count. Invest in a strong website and showcase your work.” When it’s time to grow, back yourself. “Take calculated risks. Be clear on who you are and the kind of work you want to be known for. Then protect that – whatever the market does.” S & M Solutions has carved out its space not by chasing trends, but by staying true to its principles. The next chapter, Mustafaj says, will build on that solid foundation.
when prices swing week to week. But we don’t. We focus on well-structured jobs, realistic budgets, and clients who get the importance of doing things properly.” People first From the start, S & M Solutions has invested in a stable, skilled workforce. “Quality starts with who you work with,” he says. “We’ve built a core team who share our values and take pride in their work. We’re not chasing headcount, we’re focused on trusted relationships.” While qualifications like CITB-recognised NVQs are valued, character counts too. “It’s about accountability, team spirit, and caring about the job.” That people-first approach pays off in retention. “Our sites are well-run, communication is clear, and people are treated fairly. That’s why they stay.” Looking back, two decisions stand out. First: avoid competing on price. “We prioritised quality and accountability early on. Growth was slower, but we avoided jobs that fall apart once you’re in them.” Second: embrace the full design-and- build model. “Controlling the whole process gave us better outcomes and attracted clients who wanted a joined-up team.”
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