Westminster Debate Highlights Urgent Need to Tackle Rogue Builders
A Westminster Hall debate yesterday, led by Mark Garnier MP, brought MPs from across the political spectrum together to address the growing problem of rogue builders. The discussion highlighted shocking cases of homeowners losing thousands of pounds, unsafe work being carried out, and rogue traders repeatedly evading justice by exploiting loopholes in the current system.
The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has long campaigned for a mandatory licensing scheme to professionalise the industry and protect both consumers and builders. 86% of FMB members support the introduction of licensing, according to the FMB’s Licence to Build report, which highlights widespread public and industry support for a mandatory licensing scheme for builders – and outlines a practical model to make it happen.
The debate underscored the scale of the problem: according to FMB research, homeowners have lost an estimated £14.3 billion over the past five years to rogue builders, and fear of being ripped off is deterring one in three homeowners from commissioning work – costing the UK economy up to £10 billion in lost activity. MPs agreed that the lack of regulation in the repair, maintenance and improvement (RMI) sector leaves consumers vulnerable and undermines honest SME builders who uphold high standards.
Brian Berry, CEO of the FMB, commented: “The Westminster Hall debate on rogue builders was a significant moment for the building industry. MPs from across the political spectrum came together to highlight the devastating impact that cowboy builders have on consumers and on reputable small building firms. With homeowners losing billions and honest builders being undercut, the message was clear: the current system is failing to protect both consumers and businesses!.”
Berry continued: “The FMB has long called for a mandatory licensing scheme to professionalise the industry and drive out rogues. With 86% of our members backing this reform, licensing would ensure that only qualified, competent builders can operate, giving homeowners confidence and creating a level playing field for SMEs. Tackling rogue traders is essential to restore trust, protect consumers, and safeguard the reputation of the building industry. It’s time for the Government to act and introduce a scheme that protects consumers and rewards competence and professionalism.”
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