Member News
10th February 2011
The National Federation of Builders responds to an article by Stephen Lloyd MP,calling on the government to act on stamping out cowboy builders.
Unfortunately builders, like bankers, are an easy target that people can use to score political points without being challenged to consider the deeper issues. Many construction companies are set up after the failure of a larger company prompts entrepreneurs to go it alone. With an increase in the number of construction companies in quarter four of 2010, it seems there has never been a better time to start a new business. It is inevitable that there are going to be good builders and some not so good builders – cowboys, in fact. There is also no shortage of demand. Continued restrictions on mortgage lending means that homeowners are less likely to move and more likely to renovate - and now pay 20 per cent VAT for the privilege. Is it any wonder that some consumers may be tempted to run into the arms of the cheaper cowboys?
The National Federation of Builders (NFB) has always encouraged members of the public to ensure that they use a reputable builder. They should consider using only those builders who are members of a reputable trade association, such as the NFB. This gives the consumer some peace of mind that the builder they are employing has taken the trouble to be vetted and accepted into a professional organisation. However, the consumer must take other steps to ensure that they are getting the best service. The NFB's 'Find a Builder' campaign has been running throughout England and Wales and provides ten top tips to follow when looking for a builder.
It is very true that you get what you pay for. A cowboy builder may appear cheap, but a much higher price is paid in the long term if the work is shoddy or unsafe.
We are all agreed that the cowboys are a menace and sometimes a threat to vulnerable people's safety and finances but, please, treat the problems that drive people to the cowboys and not the symptoms. The demand for them will soon stop.
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