Raw materials shortage: Comment from Checkatrade

Checkatrade has observed that only a small percentage of homeowners are currently aware of the raw materials shortage and how it will affect them.

Please find a comment below from Mike Fairman, CEO Checkatrade, that provides some further detail as well as top tips for homeowners looking to complete work over the next few months.

Mike Fairman, CEO, Checkatrade: “The current global raw materials shortage is set to have a big impact on the UK trade and construction industry over the coming months. Soaring demand, the impact of Brexit and the continued pandemic recovery are all having a significant knock on effect on building and construction timelines, which will in turn affect consumers.

Recent consumer research* from Checkatrade has revealed that awareness around the shortage is low, with only a small percentage of Brits (22%) claiming to have heard of the shortage and understanding how it affects them. However, many have already experienced its impact, with 21% of respondents* experiencing delays in either their jobs being started or completed due to a shortage of raw materials.

The property and home renovation market has been booming over the last year and demand shows no sign of slowing down – our site had its busiest ever day in May, whilst searches for the full month were up 67% year-on-year. With this in mind, we’d recommend that homeowners factor these shortages into any upcoming projects they plan to undertake on their homes. They should make sure to speak to tradespeople when planning a project to discuss timelines and should be careful to use reliable sources such as Checkatrade to find vetted, reviewed tradespeople. We know our trade members will be keen to work with their customers to find ways to overcome these issues, including trying to find alternative materials that could be used, such as reclaimed wood from pallets or scaffold boards.”

*Research conducted by Opinium on behalf of Checkatrade. Total sample size was 2,003 UK adults. Survey conducted online between 4 June and 8 June 2021.

*Includes just the respondents who have experienced delays in starting/completing home improvement projects over the last 12 months