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AS SEEN ON TV Take a look at the impressive project that saw Buildwells Bricklaying and Construction feature on George Clarke’s ‘Building Home’
A PIVOTAL PIVOT How one FMB member made the leap from QS to company owner
ARTIFICIALLY ATTUNED Low-cost AI solutions to streamline your business
LOCAL CELEBRATIONS The 2025 Master Builder Awards are underway – meet the winners
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Contents JUNE/JULY 2025 Industry update
Features
28 A pivotal pivot
Paul Jones of Kingswood Homes (UK) Ltd started his career as a Quantity Surveyor, but soon saw the potential in launching his own construction company. He shares his story of how he transitioned from QS to business success 30 Champions of their craft The 2025 Master Builder Awards ceremonies have begun, with this edition featuring winners from Northern Counties, North West, Yorkshire & Trent, London and Wales. The next edition will showcase winners from Central, Southern Counties and South West, as well as Northern Ireland and Scotland
20
7 Welcome
The Master Builder Awards are underway
8 News
The latest headlines from the industry
15 Vacancies hinder RMI sector
A lack of skilled workers threatens the long- term survival of small builders in the UK
16 What’s up at Westminster?
What the local elections mean for builders
17 A return to uncertainty How global instability affects UK construction
Your FMB
Spotlight
38 Strenghtening ties
Find out about important partnerships between the FMB and relevant organisations to help your business to grow 39 Digital defence While businesses are eager to embrace technology, they need to protect themselves from the pernicious threat of cybercriminals 40 Member update Welcome to new members that have joined the FMB 43 Member news
18 As seen on TV
Buildwells Bricklaying and Construction Ltd features on George Clarke’s show
24
20 Feedback flattery
Members share the business value of listening to their clients’ criticism
30
Business support
22 Push for profit
An update from members in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland
Make profit your business priority
24 Artificially attuned
49 Five in five
AI tools to boost your output and efficiency
Rapid-fire Q&A with FMB members Chris Van De Ruit in Scotland and Ryan Lange in the Midlands
27 H&S round-up
Keeping you and your team safe on site
Advertising Advertising enquiries Susan Cook +44 (0)20 7880 6206 masterbuilder@redactive.co.uk @fmbuilders
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
Published by Redactive Publishing Ltd Fora, 9 Dallington Street, London EC1V 0LN www.redactive.co.uk
/FederationofMasterBuilders
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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
Federation of Master Builders
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IPEB([SHUWDGYLFHDQGVXSSRUWB[LQGG MasterBuilder.AugSept21.042.indd 4
13/07/2021 11:13
Welcome BRIAN BERRY
P olitical, economic and social changes affect our industry, making it ever more important to know the latest developments. I’m, therefore, pleased to welcome Tom Hall, Chief Economist at Aqua Consultants, as our regular contributor to Master Builder . If you were at last year’s FMB National Conference in Lincoln, you would have heard Tom speak and know how familiar he is with the work that FMB members carry out. Tom launches his economics column, offering a data-driven perspective on the construction landscape. Alongside this, Jeremy Gray, FMB Head of External Affairs, keeps us informed from the heart of government in Word at Westminster. One of the biggest issues affecting the building industry is the ongoing skills shortage. We know from the FMB State of Trade surveys that skills shortages are holding back work. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) estimates that an additional 250,000 workers are needed if the government is to meet its housing target of one and a half million homes. Even more concerning is the ageing nature of the workforce – 23 per cent of construction workers are older than 55 and only 10 per cent are aged 16-24. New research from TrustMark on page 15, shines a light on the ongoing skills shortage and the impact of vacancies on SME construction firms – an issue at the core of many members’ concerns. Member excellence is at the heart of the FMB. On pages 18- 19, we spotlight an impressive project by Buildwells Bricklaying
“One of the great things about our industry is the fact that it allows anyone with ambition and hard work to succeed.”
and Construction Ltd in the West Midlands, recently featured on George Clarke’s new ‘Building Home’ TV show. Client feedback is also business-critical to any successful company. On pages 20–21 we explore the value of client feedback and how it empowers members to grow in confidence and refine their craft. The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) is felt in all parts of our lives. On pages 24-25, Greg Wilkes of Develop Coaching, shares a fantastic list of free and low-cost AI tools to boost efficiency for small businesses – a real asset for members looking to modernise operations. One of the great things about our industry is that it allows anyone with ambition and hard work to succeed. We speak to Paul Jones of Kingswood Homes (pages 28–29), who shares his journey from Quantity Surveyor to successful homebuilder – a story of grit, growth, and ambition. Finally, we continue to celebrate success this year with Master Builder Awards ceremonies across the UK. On pages 30- 37, we highlight recent regional ceremonies in London, Northern Counties, North West, Yorkshire & Trent, and Wales. In the next edition, we’ll feature winners from ceremonies in Northern Ireland, Scotland, Central, Southern Counties, and the South West.
BRIAN BERRY, Chief Executive Federation of Master Builders
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CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY NEWS
T he Department for up of environmental regulation, aiming to cut red tape while still supporting nature recovery. In response to a review led by Economist Dan Corry, Defra will implement nine fast-tracked measures with the “greatest impact for growth and nature,” including a single lead regulator for infrastructure projects and a streamlined permit system. Environment Secretary Steve Reed said: “Nature and the economy have both been in decline for too long. That changes today. Dan Corry’s essential report gives us a strong set of common- sense recommendations for better regulation that will get Britain building.” Other measures include a revamped digital planning portal, more autonomy for trusted conservation groups, and a new green finance initiative called the Nature Market Accelerator. Corry said: “Simply scrapping regulations isn’t the answer – instead, we need modern, streamlined regulation that is easier for everyone to use.” Mark Russell, Executive Director Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced a major shake- of the Mineral Products Association, said: “The mineral products industry is deeply committed to high environmental standards and nature recovery, but our members are also often frustrated by how slowly and inefficiently regulation is applied.” The government said the reforms will speed up planning, and reduce legal costs across industries including construction, development, and farming. Simpler rules to “Get Britain Building”
Planning applications down 7% in England
D espite the government’s optimistic declarations that there will be a major building boom, the data tells a different story, with planning permissions in decline. According to statistics released by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, planning authorities granted fewer decisions last year than they did in 2023, with 271,600 decisions in 2024, down seven per cent from 2023. This comes from a total of 330,500 planning applications received, which is down eight per cent from figures in 2023. Provisional figures show that permission for 241,000 homes was given in 2024, which is down three per cent from the 248,000 homes granted permission in 2023. There has been no upturn since the new Labour government was voted in, with a seven per cent decline in applications year-on-year, and a six per cent decline in approvals in the
fourth quarter of 2024. During the same period, district level planning authorities in England received 79,000 applications for planning permission, down seven per cent from the same quarter in 2023 – and granted 64,900 decisions, down six per cent from the same quarter a year earlier. FMB Chief Executive Brian Berry said: “It is deeply disappointing to see the number of planning applications granted for developments of nine or fewer units in 2024 were down significantly on the previous year, by almost 2,000. This means a mere nine per cent of homes delivered will be from the nation’s small local housebuilders – an increasingly dwindling part of the sector. “The housing minister has been clear about the need to diversify the housing market away from a reliance on a small number of high- volume builders, yet today’s figures show more needs to be done.”
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NEWS IN NUMBERS
Government will miss housebuilding target
T he government’s ambition to build one and a half million new homes in England by 2030 is set to fall short, Chancellor Rachel Reeves said. Reeves said the country is expected to deliver “fewer than 1.3 million” net additions to the UK housing stock by March 2030. This figure, drawn from the Office for Budget Responsibility’s (OBR) forecast, is lower than Labour’s 2024 manifesto pledge, even when accounting for new builds in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Still, the Chancellor struck an optimistic tone, calling the gap “touching distance”, and pointing to progress made on planning reform. The OBR’s Economic and Fiscal Outlook estimates 1.3 million net housing additions from 2025-26 to 2029-30. It credits the revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) for lifting expected completions, saying reforms could contribute an extra 170,000 homes. “This is equivalent to a 0.5 per cent increase in the housing stock by 2029-30,” the OBR noted.
Key changes, such as obliging local authorities to release land to meet housing needs and strengthening the presumption in favour of sustainable development, are expected to drive this increase. However, the OBR added that most of the growth won’t be felt until 2027-28 due to planning and development lead times. The OBR sounded a note of caution, warning that its assumptions rest on overcoming serious supply-side constraints in
17% The percentage by
which building costs are forecast to rise over the next five years. Source: Building Cost Information Service (BCIS)
the construction industry. “Capacity constraints in the
housebuilding sector could prove more binding than assumed,” its report stated, highlighting concerns around labour shortages and local opposition, particularly to building on green belt land. In its alternative scenarios, the OBR suggested the UK could see between 1.2 and 1.4 million homes delivered, with corresponding variations in GDP impact. Whether the sector can meet the revised targets will depend on how well it navigates workforce shortages and planning hurdles.
15.3% Q2 2022
1.7% Q4 2024
1.7% The percentage at which
housebuilding cost inflation stood at in Q4 2024, down from a peak of 15.3% in Q2 2022. Source: BCIS Private Housing Construction Price Index (PHCPI)
35,000 The number of job vacancies in the UK’s construction industry. Source: ONS
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INDUSTRY UPDATE NEWS
Building Safety Levy delayed until 2026 T he government has announced a 12-month delay to the implementation of the Building Safety Levy in England, pushing its introduction from autumn 2025 to autumn 2026. The levy is part of a £3 billion plan to fund the remediation of unsafe cladding and fire safety defects, and will apply to developers submitting building control applications for residential buildings over 11 metres. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities said the delay would provide time for local authorities, the Building Safety Regulator and building control professionals to prepare, while allowing developers to factor the levy into current project planning. The government has now published the full schedule of levy rates across England. Rates for non-previously developed land are around double those for previously developed sites. For example, developers in Westminster face a charge of £98.01 per square metre for greenfield developments, compared to £6.35 per square metre in County Durham for brownfield sites.
Scotland’s national building data hub A new report from the Construction Leadership Forum (CLF) has laid the groundwork for a National Existing Buildings Database to accelerate retrofitting in Scotland.
Robert Gordon University, explained: “A central database or digital twin which brings together vital building data will help local authorities, landlords, and the public make informed decisions… It will evolve over time, strengthening Scotland’s readiness for net zero.” John McKinney, Co-chair of the CLF Data Working Group, added: “To meet Scotland’s net zero targets, we must understand what is going on with our buildings so we can take the right retrofit measures and cut emissions.” Gavin Johnston of BE-ST confirmed that 10 research work packages are now in place to guide the development of the database, ensuring it becomes a valuable tool for decarbonisation across Scotland’s housing stock. Scan the QR code for the full report.
Produced in partnership with Robert Gordon University and Built Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST), the report identifies the current state of building data across the country, highlighting inconsistencies, data gaps, and a need for greater cybersecurity. The database, once live, will act as a single access point for accurate, real-time building information—helping local authorities and building owners to make better decisions on retrofit and energy efficiency investments. Dr Jonathan Scott, Course Leader of Architectural Technology at
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Right to work checks to cover self-employed
NEWS IN NUMBERS
T he government is preparing to introduce right to work checks for self-employed workers, extending current requirements beyond traditional employment to include contractors, gig workers and those on zero-hours contracts. Under the changes, businesses hiring self-employed individuals will be legally obligated to verify their right to work in the UK, mirroring checks already in place for directly employed staff. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “Under our Plan for Change, we are restoring order to the asylum and immigration system by introducing tougher laws and bolstering enforcement action to tackle illegal working and stop rogue employers in their tracks. “Turning a blind eye to illegal working plays into the hands of callous people smugglers... These exploitative practices are often an attempt to undercut competitors who are doing the right thing. But we are clear that the rules need to be respected and enforced.” The changes will affect sectors that rely heavily on self-employed or casual labour, such as construction. The government says that businesses failing to comply could face fines of up to £60,000 per illegal worker, alongside potential director bans, business closures, or even prison sentences of up to five years.
Currently, UK right to work legislation is geared towards verifying employment status rather than self-employment, creating an enforcement gap. Proposed amendments to the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, now passing through parliament, would make it possible to legally require these checks for all working arrangements. The Home Office says the process will be quick and simple, with a free verification service available to businesses. Digital ID tools and helpline support will also be provided. A consultation period will follow once the bill passes, giving businesses a chance to comment. The changes form part of a wider government push to strengthen border enforcement and reduce illegal working, with increased workplace raids, arrests and removal efforts already underway.
31% The percentage of UK tradespeople who are contemplating leaving
the construction industry due to work-related stress, burnout, and a lack of mental health support. Source: Survey by health and safety specialists Arco
£600m Investment by the government to train up to 60,000 skilled construction workers. Source: Construction Skills Mission Board
Construction boss on the run
A Suffolk construction boss is being sought by police after repeatedly failing to appear in court to face serious charges, including gross negligence manslaughter. Peter Clifford of Felixstowe, was due to face trial over the death of 33-year- old Dale Baker, who died in December 2020 when a trench collapsed during house extension works. Clifford’s
company, Hintonwood East Anglia Ltd, is also facing safety charges. Clifford was initially charged in October 2024 and appeared before Ipswich Magistrates’ Court on 15 November. However, he failed to attend two subsequent hearings at Ipswich Crown Court on 20 March and 4 April 2025. A warrant has now been issued for his arrest.
£6.8bn The estimated economic value that the housebuilding sector is set to add to the UK economy by 2030. Source: Office for Budgetary Responsibility
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INDUSTRY UPDATE NEWS
Labour costs driving tender price inflation
R ising labour costs, not materials, are now the main driver of inflation in construction project tendering, according to Turner & Townsend’s latest UK Construction Market Intelligence report. The consultancy forecasts that tender price inflation (TPI) will remain high despite falling materials prices. Real estate TPI is expected to stay around 3.5% from 2026 to 2029, with infrastructure inflation at 5%. Employment in the sector has dropped by 3.4% year on year, with the industry’s
While material prices have eased – structural steel is down 3.1% and sawn wood by 2.4% – labour-related inflation is outpacing these reductions. The report warns that US tariffs could reverse recent gains. Turner & Townsend recommends focusing on workforce retention through improved career progression, psychological safety, and inclusive workplace practices. “This is not just about money – it’s about how we treat people,” the report states.
average worker’s age now over 50 – pointing to a potential retirement cliff. “Half a decade on from the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic, year-on-year employment is still shrinking,” said Martin Sudweeks, UK Managing Director of Cost Management at Turner & Townsend. He added: “We need to radically rethink how we attract talent – looking to a wider set of disciplines, backgrounds and skills that will deliver the modern, digitally- enabled, creative construction workforce of the future.”
Big construction pushes for reform
T hirteen major the government’s Planning & Infrastructure Bill, describing it as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to streamline development and stimulate economic growth. construction firms have written to MPs urging support for
called for “leadership and action” to deliver affordable, modern infrastructure swiftly. More than half of the signatories are subsidiaries of overseas firms. New to the group this year are Kier, Skanska and Jacobs, while Galliford Try and Morgan Sindall have dropped out.
letter states. “Communities, businesses and economic growth are being held back by a planning system that is too slow, uncertain and costly.” Although the bill is expected to pass with the government’s large majority, industry leaders want to ensure that its ambition is preserved. They
The letter, signed by Tier 1 contractors and consultants – including Kier, Skanska and Jacobs – coincided with the bill’s second reading in parliament. “The choices made now will determine whether the country seizes this moment— or lets it slip away,” the
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NEWS
Manufacturers should pay the cladding bill M embers of Parliament have called on the government to make construction product manufacturers contribute to the cost of fixing unsafe buildings, as the national cladding crisis shows little sign of resolution eight years after the Grenfell Tower tragedy. A new report from the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has revealed the true scale of the challenge, warning that the government still does not know how many buildings are affected, how much remediation will cost or how long it will take. When first assessed in 2020, the crisis was expected to cost £600 million to remediate 450 high- rise buildings. Now, the estimate stands between £12.6 billion and £22.4 billion, covering as many as 12,000 buildings. Despite developers being subject to the building safety levy, the PAC noted that manufacturers have yet to contribute. PAC members are urging ministers to publish proposals by the end of 2025 on how manufacturers should pay. Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP, PAC chair, said: “Eight years after Grenfell, it is still not known how many buildings out there have dangerous cladding, and when it will be removed. That vow remains unkept for every day that is still the case.” The PAC warned that funding pressures may be affecting new housebuilding, particularly in the social housing sector, where housing starts in London have dropped by 90% year-on-year. It further criticised the system for weak fraud controls, reporting that £500,000 had been lost from the Building Safety Fund.
Signs of improvement in regulator delays
T he Building Safety Regulator (BSR), widely criticised for delays to high-rise construction approvals, is starting to show signs of improvement, according to Building Safety Minister Alex Norris. Since October 2023, developers have been required to seek BSR approval before starting work on buildings over 18 metres high or seven storeys. However, turnaround times have been lengthy – between 24 and 48 weeks – causing project delays and job losses. Industry players have recently called for a full review. But Norris, responding to a written parliamentary question, said, “We have put in place a range of mitigations including additional funding
aimed at boosting BSR capacity for additional building control caseworkers… This has already resulted in some green shoots of improvement.” He said the BSR is now advising applicants to expect a 16-week turnaround for Gateway 2 applications, though older and transferred cases may take longer. “It is important to recognise that BSR is a newly established operational regulator… If applications for buildings do not meet the standard and pose a risk to life, BSR will not approve them,” Norris added. The FMB will continue
to push for clarity and efficiency in regulatory processes, particularly where small builders are affected.
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LABOUR SHORTAGE
● 29% say there’s not enough support from training providers; ● 34% have hired a young apprentice in the past three years; ● 52% haven’t hired an apprentice at all; ● End Point Assessment completion has dropped from 55% (2017/18) to 35% (2022/23); and ● business owners often spend significant time supervising apprentices due to insufficient training quality. Poor access to financial incentives ● 64% say financial support isn’t adequate for trade-based apprenticeships; ● 7% have accessed the Apprenticeship/ Skills and Growth Levy; ● 32% cite lack of time or guaranteed work as reasons for not training apprentices; and ● 21% access CITB training or funding, and the £1,000 grant is widely seen as insufficient. Missed earnings If the sector’s current vacancies were filled – equating to an extra 195,000 workers – the RMI sector alone could boost revenue by £9.6 billion and add £4.1 billion in additional gross added value (GVA). That’s a 4.3 per cent increase on the sector’s current £96 billion annual contribution. The benefits wouldn’t just be confined to London and the South East. Over 70 per cent of the GVA uplift would be seen across England’s regions, making a strong case for targeted investment to level up the country. Finding a way forward TrustMark recommends four actions to close the construction and RMI skills gap: ● improve training and curricula; ● simplify recruitment processes; ● raise awareness of financial incentives; and ● promote upskilling in renewables and clean heat.
A shortage of skilled workers threatens the long-term stability of many small businesses
VACANCIES HINDER RMI SECTOR
N early half – 45 per cent – of all repair, maintain and improve (RMI) firms report at least one current vacancy, with: ● micro businesses reporting one vacancy; ● small firms reporting over three vacancies; and ● businesses actively looking to grow report five vacancies. The research – commissioned by TrustMark and conducted by Eureka! Research, with economic analysis from Oxford Economics – collected responses from more than 1,200 RMI businesses. It found that a shortage of skilled workers is limiting the UK’s RMI sector, hampering net zero goals, and threatening the long- term stability of thousands of small firms. Many businesses turn down work due to labour shortages, with 52 per cent scaling back due to staffing constraints. Relying on subcontractors has become a common workaround (used by 37 per cent), but
even that is under strain, with 56 per cent struggling to find reliable subcontractors.
A ticking clock The sector’s workforce is ageing: 21% of the UK workforce is over 55, climbing to 44% in the RMI sector. Nearly a quarter of older workers expect to retire or semi-retire within three years. Without a clear succession pipeline, close to 40,000 businesses could exit the sector in the next decade.
Three bottlenecks Cumbersome recruitment ● 44% want a more transparent hiring process; and ● 39% say bureaucracy and paperwork are major barriers to recruiting apprentices. Training and support ● 22% cite a lack of suitable apprenticeship courses;
Full report Scan the QR code for the full report
The researchers argued in the report that collaboration across government and industry is essential to building a competent, future-ready workforce.
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THE WORD AT WESTMINSTER
WHAT’S UP AT WESTMINSTER?
With local elections underway across England, FMB Head of External Affairs Jeremy Gray asks what impact the results will have on small builders W estminster hasn’t been the focus of the political scene recently, with local elections taking part in various areas
construction sector. In real terms, the FMB is the closest standards requirement we have to licensing – for the moment at least. The FMB campaign for a mandatory licensing scheme, Licence to Build, is in full swing. Details can be found on our website’s campaign section. On 7 May, we launched new research in collaboration with the HomeOwners Alliance looking at the perceptions of the building industry. We found that 81% of UK homeowners support mandatory licensing for builders, while 47% of UK adults are incorrectly under the impression that a licensing scheme already exists. New FMB report On 20 May, the FMB headed to the House of Lords, for the launch of our new research report Licence to Build , at a hotly attended event packed with builders, politicians, journalists, industry experts, and victims of rogue traders.The report sets out a framework for what a potential scheme might look like in reality. We’re now encouraging supporters of our campaign to contact their local MP, to encourage them to deliver change for builders and consumers. A properly regulated system where individuals and companies must demonstrate basic competence and professionalism would offer real protection for consumers while lifting the standards across the sector. Licensing has the power to transform our industry. It would remove rogue traders, elevate public confidence, and encourage new talent to see construction as a respected and rewarding career. It would also lead to safer, more efficient, and more productive project delivery – benefitting clients and professionals alike.
of England. We may increasingly see political machinations shift from London with mayors increasingly gaining power. Time will tell if regional mayors will be able to secure funding for local projects, but the mood seems positive. The big story from the elections was, of course, Reform UK gaining hundreds of new seats across various local councils and clinching power in certain councils such as Kent and Staffordshire. The party also gained the Mayoralty of Lincolnshire, with former Tory Minister Dame Andrea Jenkyns at the helm. We don’t know yet what this means for builders as Reform UK’s manifesto was light on detail and, seemingly, different councils are allowed to create decisions independently of the main party. We’ll need to wait to see if anything comes from this in terms of housebuilding and other local matters that affect builders. But we can’t overlook major strides made by the Liberal Democrats, which gained a number of new councillors and took control of Shropshire, Oxfordshire and Cambridgeshire. Much like Reform UK, the impact is unclear, but incumbent Lib Dem councils have been tricky customers when it comes to housing delivery.
The UK needs a mandatory licensing scheme for construction
Mandatory licensing We know that anyone can call
themselves a builder and legally carry out construction work. No qualifications are required; no minimum standards need to be met. Whether it’s a home extension, a commercial renovation or essential safety repairs, there is currently no legal requirement for builders or tradespeople to prove they are competent before starting the job. This lack of regulation leaves consumers exposed to poor workmanship, safety risks, and costly mistakes. It also undermines the credibility of the thousands of skilled, responsible professionals who are committed to delivering high-quality work. In short, it’s damaging the reputation and effectiveness of the entire
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INDUSTRY ANALYSIS
A RETURN TO UNCERTAINTY
What does the current global instability mean for UK construction? Tom Hall, Chief Economist at Aqua Consultants, explains
T he hope of a return to calmer times has been during the second half of last year weighed on business and consumer confidence, and now the new US administration has declared trade war on the rest of the world, creating international turmoil. Positively, the direct impact of US tariffs on construction is likely to be limited. Most UK construction dashed. Pessimism over the state of the UK economy materials are sourced locally or from near neighbours. In fact, there are several potential upsides: ● the EU now has an incentive – alleviating the impact of US tariffs – to negotiate a reduction of post-Brexit trade barriers with the UK; and ● an increase in goods from China previously destined for the US may have a downward impact on inflation. The elephant in the room is the uncertainty (Fig. 1) that plagued the last decade: domestic political upheaval, Brexit, the Covid pandemic and its aftermath, and the lack of a long-term public investment strategy sapping business confidence and private sector investment. With a highly volatile US administration, uncertainty is going to be the norm rather than the exception for the next four years. Turning to UK construction, output was subdued over 2024. Overall momentum was flat, but this masked a fall in new work over the
Figure 1: World Uncertainty Index
incomes not seen since 2015 (Fig. 2). However, households have not been spending in the face of bad economic news, they have been repairing their finances after the fall in real incomes over 2022-23. As a result, the savings rate climbed to 12 per cent in Q4 2024 (Fig.2). Ignoring the anomaly of the Covid pandemic, this is the highest since the 2008 financial crisis, which peaked at 12.5 per cent in Q1 2010. Turning on the taps Households are unlikely to maintain this rate of saving and will start turning the spending taps back on. There remains a high level of demand for UK housing after interest rate rises of the last few years priced many people out of the market. The Bank of England, ever fearful of a wage-price spiral, won’t lower the base rate until inflation is under control. The market has priced in three further rate cuts this year, but rates will stay high for longer. The housing market will return slowly over the next few years, particularly with the lack of any tangible progress on labour and materials constraints. On the supply side, planning reform should streamline planning decisions, removing a blocker from timely development. Uncertainty is here to stay but the outlook for construction is positive – the recovery has just been pushed back for a period, and when it comes, it will be slow and steady.
Apr 64
Jul 09
Oct 54
Source: worlduncertaintyindex.com
Dec 99
Figure 2: Real Wages and Consumer Savings Rate
12%
8%
Savings rate Real wages
4%
0%
-4%
Source: ONS
-8%
first half of the year. So far in 2025, new work has remained subdued. New orders have also been slow, with a pickup in Q2 2024 – likely due to optimism from the change of government – but activity has since fallen off. There are reasons to be cautiously optimistic. While consumer confidence has remained fragile since the change in government, wages have averaged three per cent above inflation for the last year, contributing to an increase in real
Tom Hall
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SPOTLIGHT BUILDWELLS
W hen Billy Buswell, Director of Buildwells Bricklaying and Construction Ltd, operating in the West Midlands, first heard his project would be featured on national television, his reaction was mixed. “We were a bit worried, obviously,” Buswell admits. “We know we do a good job, but we were nervous about how we’d come across on TV. But watching it back, honestly, it was amazing. Such a great feeling.” Head Office Manager Jonny Ivey echoes the sentiment. “I remember messaging Billy after, saying how proud he should be. A company coming from humble beginnings and then being showcased like that – it’s a big moment.”
Buildwells Bricklaying and Construction took on one of its biggest projects to date – a domestic build that ended up on national television, tested the team’s resilience and bolstered its reputation SMILE, WE’RE ON TELLY
Test of skill The Solihull project in
question was anything but straightforward. It began as a large rear extension with a flat fibreglass roof and skylights, but quickly evolved into something much more ambitious. “We built three dormers,” Buswell explains. “One new, and the other two were reconstructed from flat to pitched roofs. Then there was a second-storey extension above the existing garage, plus knock- throughs inside, bathrooms, kitchens, flooring, and full decoration. It was a big job.” It was, in fact, one of the company’s biggest jobs so far – especially given its relatively small size. “We’ve got a team of 15 at the moment, and we’re growing,” Buswell says. “That includes all trades and our regular subcontractors. But this project pushed us.”
What made the job unique wasn’t just its size, but the challenges it presented – such as a steel beam so large it even surprised seasoned structural professionals. “We had a steel expert on site – 30 years in the game,” Buswell says. “He told us it was only the second time he’d ever installed a beam that size in a domestic house. That’s how big it was.” The project came about
groundwork knew someone involved in the production of the George Clarke show. “We had to quote for it alongside five or six other companies,” Buswell says. “In the end, it came down to word of mouth. They looked at our previous work in Solihull and liked what they saw. Even though we were the smallest company in the running, we got the job.” Ivey adds: “Most firms our size might hesitate to take on something with this level of structural complexity. But we believed we could do it.”
And they did it. But not without solving serious design headaches along the way. “One of the biggest challenges was the placement of a steel column,” Buswell recalls. “The original design had it going right against the boundary wall. But once we measured up, we realised that pouring the pad foundation would spill into the neighbour’s garden. That would’ve triggered all kinds of party wall issues.” Instead of pushing ahead, the team made the call to redesign on the fly. “We shifted the post inward and extended
for Buildwells through a somewhat serendipitous connection – a friend of Buswell’s who handled
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BUILDWELLS BRICKLAYING AND CONSTRUCTION
beam already in place that we could prop off. That saved us a lot of time and hassle.” It wasn’t all problem- solving, though. There were highlights too – and not just seeing their work on screen. “Installing that massive steel beam was a real moment,” Buswell says. “You don’t get many domestic builds with engineering like that.” Ivey points to the finish as a standout. “The rendering transformed the whole house. The original brickwork wasn’t great, so we went for a clean, modern monochrome render. Alongside the apex glazing and bi-fold doors, it just lifted everything.” For the clients, their home was a return – an emotional one at that – to their origins. “They’d spent 17 years living in Dubai,” Buswell shares. “This was about coming back to Solihull to be near their family. That personal story was what the TV show, ‘Building Home’, really focused on.” The exposure has already boosted Buswell’s business. “We’ve had two or three new jobs come in because of it,” he says. “More enquiries are coming in all the time. It’s definitely made a difference.” Lessons in success The experience has also solidified what both men believe are the cornerstones of a successful build, lessons they hope resonate with fellow FMB members. Preparation is at the top of Buswell’s list. “You’ve got to plan. You can’t wing it on a project of this size. Materials, trades, scheduling – it’s all got to be nailed down early.”
Teamwork is another of Buswell’s fundamentals of success. “We’ve spent years building this team, and it shows. Trustworthy people who know what they’re doing, who show up and get on with it – that’s gold.” Finally, Ivey adds, is courage. “A lot of small firms might have walked away from a job like this. But we went for it. You’ve got to challenge yourself. That’s how you grow.” Asked whether they’d do it again – take on a project of this scale, with cameras watching – both men smile. “Absolutely,” Buswell says. “It’s been hard work, but it’s put us on the map. And more importantly, it showed us what we’re capable of.” Just over 12 months on, they have installed an even bigger domestic beam. For a company like Buildwells, which is built on pride, problem-solving, and now, a little prime-time publicity, it’s not just about the houses they build. It’s about backing themselves to take on more. And delivering, every time.
the pad,” Buswell says. “It changed the internal layout, which was tough for the client because they really wanted a completely open-plan look.” It required creative thinking. “We ended up disguising the structural nib with two dummy kitchen cupboards,” Ivey says. “Once it was done, the client was thrilled with it. You wouldn’t know it’s there.” Another challenge came from the existing dormers. “The rafters were slightly bowing,” Buswell says. “We had to investigate and, thankfully, we found a steel
Client Kazal Ahmed with Billy Buswell
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SPOTLIGHT MEMBER VOICES
FEEDBACK FLATTERY
“You’ve changed our lives,” a client told Gutierrez after a major transformation of their family home in Surrey. It was a project that involved a full structural overhaul – rear extension, double- storey front extension – and yet, perhaps the most remarkable part was that the family remained in the house throughout the build. “They couldn’t afford to move out, so we had to work around them,” Gutierrez says. “We built them a temporary kitchen, kept the heating going, installed temporary stud walls to keep the dust out. We didn’t charge extra. It was just the right thing to do.” Doing the right thing – beyond the contractual agreement – to protect the comfort of a family left a lasting impression on both sides. “We’re personal friends now,” Gutierrez adds. “That’s how strong the relationship became.” At Ipsum UK, the emotional resonance of good feedback has
I n an industry where bricks and mortar are the visible outcome, it’s the invisible foundations – trust, communication and human connection – that can determine long-term success. For builders such as David Gutierrez of Nest Building Group Ltd in Tadworth and Aidan Cropper of Ipsum UK in Nottingham, positive client feedback isn’t just a pat on the back; it’s a compass for how they build, how they grow, and how they stand out.
Client feedback is a powerful tool for growth and reputation – and two Master Builders share how heartfelt responses have shaped their businesses from the inside out
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MEMBER VOICES
been just as transformative. For Cropper, it was a homemade cake and a handwritten note from one of their earliest clients that brought the message home. “It was a technically challenging build, but we delivered,” Cropper recalls. “That thank you cake felt like a real milestone.” While heartfelt gestures are memorable, Gutierrez and Cropper understand that they don’t come from nowhere. Earning trust is a process, built slowly over time through attention to detail, empathy and clear communication. Client care Communication isn’t a courtesy – it’s a strategy. “You learn that just because someone hires you for a major project, doesn’t mean they understand what’s involved,” says Gutierrez. “We need to guide them.” From setting clear expectations to explaining processes during the build, transparency is non- negotiable. “We use WhatsApp groups, we’re detailed in our estimates, and we’re very clear about house rules,” Gutierrez adds. Cropper has taken a similar approach, embedding communication tools into Ipsum UK’s operating model. “WhatsApp has been a great integration into our business,” he says. “We create client groups that include the site manager, project manager, director and client. It keeps everyone informed and avoids surprises.” This attention to communication serves a dual purpose: it prevents small issues from growing, and it empowers clients to feel in control. “It’s about partnership,” says Gutierrez. “If we need access through the side alley, for example, we don’t just turn up and hope – it’s all worked out upfront.” Constructive criticism Not every project ends with cake and champagne. Negative feedback is an inevitable part of the business, but for builders committed to growth, it’s also a gift.
“No one likes negative feedback,” Gutierrez admits. “But I’ve learned not to take it personally. You look at it from the client’s perspective; they might be stressed, have young kids, or be overwhelmed by the disruption. That’s understandable.” For Gutierrez, one recurring issue has been dust – an occupational hazard in any live-in renovation. “You can close doors, put down sheets, but dust finds a way. So instead of saying, ‘Well, that’s just how it is,’ you say, ‘Sorry about that, what can we do better next time?’” It’s a mindset of listening, adapting, and evolving, job after job. Cropper echoes the importance of listening, particularly during the build. “It’s really important to reach out to our clients for constructive criticism – not just at the end, but during the construction period,” he explains. “It helps us improve in real time, and it shows the client that their voice matters.” Being human At a time when online reviews can be bought, and reputations are sometimes inflated, authentic, heartfelt testimonials are worth their weight in gold. “Positive word-of-mouth is gold,” says Gutierrez. “Especially in places like Ashtead where loft conversions are common, mouth is “Especially in here loft mon, oft
That kind of authentic marketing builds trust in ways no brochure or advertisement ever could. “Online reviews are great,” he adds, “but people still don’t know what to trust. Speaking to a real person who’s had the work done – that’s powerful.” For Ipsum UK, the impact is felt internally and externally. “Heartfelt testimonials give us a massive sense of achievement and pride,” Cropper says. “We’re in a privileged and trusted position to be invited into someone’s home and asked to make major alterations. When someone takes the time to thank us, publicly or privately, it’s a huge testament to everyone involved.” The team shares these testimonials widely, not just on social media, but within the company itself. “We celebrate it,” says Cropper. “Because it reminds us why we do what we do.” The ripple effect There’s a business case to be made for positive feedback – it generates leads, closes deals, builds loyalty. But there’s also a deeper truth: great feedback is a reflection of great relationships, which are built not just with tools and timetables, but with empathy, humility, and care. “We’re not just building houses,” Gutierrez reflects. “We’re building someone’s future space, their family home, their memories, their safety. That’s not something to take lightly.” Cropper agrees. “In construction, trust is everything. som fam the to It’s what gets you through the tough jobs and what brings people back when they want more work done. We’re not just delivering buildings – we’re delivering peace of mind.” c It t b t d delive As building professionals navigate rising costs, stricter regulations and evolving client expectations, one thing remains constant: people remember how you made them feel. When that feeling is gratitude, admiration and trust, it echoes long after the final coat of paint has dried. ie me m e o emp “W Guti wan just deliv
Aidan Cropper
David Gutierrez
we’ll send potential clients a list of past
customers they can call. Real people, happy to talk about their experience and even show off the work they had done.” all. talk e and ork
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