15/09/2026
Nearly half of UK homeowners wrongly believe that builders are already licensed.
Builders do not currently need to hold any sort of qualification in order to carry out construction work. This means homeowners can be left at risk, with no guarantee that the person they hire has the skills, knowledge or competence needed to do the job properly.
It also puts reputable builders at a disadvantage, forcing them to compete with rogue traders who can undercut their prices without having to meet consistent professional standards.
When things go wrong, the consequences can be devastating - from unfinished work and unexpected costs to unsafe homes and lengthy disputes.
A Licence to Build would help raise standards, protect homeowners and give reputable builders the recognition they deserve.
This research from the HomeOwners Alliance and the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) highlights a worrying gap between public expectations and reality.
Don’t take the risk. It’s time for a Licence to Build.
Find out more here: https://www.fmb.org.uk/news-and-campaigns/campaigns/licence-to-build.html