The National Federation of Builders (NFB) would like to thank the Government for its recent commitments and action to ensure Green Homes Grant contractors were being paid more quickly and the final round of grant applications were honoured.
However, the federation has also expressed growing concern at the problem of material and product availability.
In recent months the CPA and BMF have issued stark warnings about the problems facing the industry. Along with the CLC, they have urged the industry to collaborate to ensure the shortage of materials in key product areas does not have a major impact on the recovery of construction following the pandemic.
Richard Beresford, chief executive of the NFB, said: “When the Green Homes Grant closed, we asked ministers to ensure contractor payments were sped up and applications were honoured. Since that time, we have heard many positive stories about quick payment and timely decisions for work, so although the scheme has closed, it has ironed out major issues. This bodes well for future iterations of zero carbon funding and rebuilding trust with industry, campaigners and consumers.”
These positive signs show the Government is listening to industry and recognising the challenges which exist on these major schemes; however, in recent months global material delays and availability has impacted the wider construction industry. We therefore ask that the Government ensures the Green Homes Grant takes account of these.
Beresford continued: “Due to global material delays and in some cases, unavailable products, the Green Homes Grant teams may need to extend voucher expiry dates and more quickly consent to substituted ‘like for like’ products. We therefore urge the Government to put these recommendations in place and ensure the scheme finishes on a high.”
