The FMB’s State of Trade Survey revealed 74% of members are in favour of the UK government introducing a long-term plan to reduce energy consumption by making existing homes greener and more energy efficient.

Data found growth in workloads, enquiries and employment levels continued to contract in Q3, with enquiries dropping into negative territory for the first time since 2013, excluding the pandemic years.

Material cost increases, meanwhile, were reported by a 90% of builders in Q3, with a further 88% expecting prices to rise again next quarter.

Shortages led to some 60% of builders reporting a delay in jobs due to lack of materials, while 59% said they delayed work due to a shortage of skilled tradespeople.

The FMB warned of more uncertainty ahead if the country continues to lack a ‘clear political and economic direction’.

•   Differing definitions of net zero could be stalling planet-positive construction with greenwashing, claims developer
•   FMB urges new government to act after construction activity drops again
•   Construction industry reveals hopes for Liz Truss' refreshed cabinet

Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB, said: “The fall in builders’ workloads and enquiries to a level not seen since 2013, discounting the turbulent market during the Covid pandemic is a worrying signal about the future prospects for the building industry.

“They reflect the overall economic situation that the UK finds itself in.

 “Small builders across the country need clear policies, and a degree of assurance so they can plan ahead.

“The current political uncertainly and its impact on the economy needs to be addressed quickly.

“Over 70% of members support a UK-wide retrofit strategy to make the existing housing stock more energy efficient.

“This is one of the best ways to boost both the economy and the industry, while also upgrading our homes in an energy efficient way.”