The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has submitted its response to the Government’s consultation on the creation of a Single Construction Regulator, calling on the Government to use the reforms as an opportunity to fill the gaps in building safety that have long gone ignored. There is a clear ask by the FMB to introduce a mandatory licensing scheme for building companies. While the proposed outcomes for the new system are welcome, they will only be delivered in practice if there is a clear baseline for building companies to operate - something that the scope of the Regulator can be expanded to.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB commented: “Creating a Single Construction Regulator is an opportunity to fix long‑standing weaknesses in how the construction industry is regulated. The landscape has vast gaps of no regulation for those working in the industry, currently filled by halfway house measures in an attempt to boost consumer trust. We support the Government’s focus on safety, trust, and higher standards, but these outcomes will not be achieved unless there is clear accountability and a level playing field for responsible builders.”
Berry continued: “Good builders are being undercut by rogue traders who operate with little oversight and leave consumers facing serious financial and emotional harm. A mandatory licensing system, which the Regulator can be expanded in scope to accommodate, would set a clear baseline for competence and professionalism, make enforcement more effective, and give homeowners confidence about who they are letting into their homes. Our response shows how licensing can be designed to work for SMEs, while targeting poor practice and raising standards across the industry.”
