The Government’s announcement of a review to increase self and custom builds will prove valuable for local communities and SME house builders, says the Federation of Master Builders.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “It’s no secret that this country is in need of more, high quality, sustainable homes, so this boost to Right to Build is welcome. The Housing Secretary’s determination to increase diversification in the housing market and promote greater numbers of self and custom builds is good news for small to medium-sized (SME) house builders. Reversing the decline of SME house builders, who today build just 12% of new homes, compared to 40% 30 years ago, will mean more development that truly caters for local communities.’

Notes to editors

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is the largest trade association in the UK construction industry representing thousands of firms in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Established in 1941 to protect the interests of small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms, the FMB is independent and non-profit making, lobbying for members’ interests at both the national and local level.

The FMB is a source of knowledge, professional advice and support for its members, providing a range of modern and relevant business building services to help them succeed. The FMB is committed to raising quality in the construction industry and offers a free Find a Builder service to consumers.