In response to the newly announced government crackdown on 'cowboy builders' the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) welcomes the move, but has concerns about another voluntary scheme without teeth.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB said: "The Prime Minister’s push to crackdown on rogue builders is a great move for the industry. However, it is a real concern that this is just another voluntary programme without regulation behind it. That said it signals a positive change in the Government's commitment on the issue. We look forward to seeing more detail and working with the Government to deliver the best result for builders and consumers alike."
Berry continued: "In the long term the Government should be looking at a compulsory licensing scheme for building companies. Currently anyone can call themselves a builder with no minimum competence level required to run a building company. Voluntary schemes have never filled the gap for good regulation that protects both reputable builders and consumers. Without statutory licensing any voluntary scheme, however well intended, is likely to struggle to gain traction."
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