THE vast majority (91%) of roofing contractors have reported being ‘busy’ or ‘very busy’ in a recent survey by roofing trade body, NFRC.
Despite there being plenty of work, 23% reported concerns over payment. One respondent reported having to wait four months to be paid by a public sector client.
The survey also found that roofers are mostly back to pre-Covid-19 capacity, with just under half (49%) of contractors reporting operating at 100% of their pre-lockdown capacity, with 40% operating at over three-quarters of their capacity.
Most firms (90%) reported having no issues implementing Covid-19 safety guidelines on site, and 94% said they were receiving the same number (67%) or more (27%) of new enquiries as this time last year.
Commenting on the survey results, NFRC chief executive, James Talman said, “This survey confirms what we have all been hearing—roofing contractors are generally busier than ever. A combination of pent-up demand in the summer, combined with government stimulation packages, and people working from home wanting home-upgrades, has meant demand has not been a problem for roofers.
“However, it is shocking that so many roofers are still waiting to be paid, with some reporting waiting on thousands of pounds from their clients. We all know that times are tough for some firms, but that is no reason not to pay for your supply chain. I was particularly concerned to see public sector clients listed as being the worst culprits when they should be leading the way.
“Unsurprisingly to those in the industry, concrete roof tiles and timber were listed as the top material shortage areas. This seems to be due to the incredible amount of demand we have seen in the last quarter combined with the lag seen in production, following lockdown earlier this year. We have been working closely with manufacturers on this issue and will continue to monitor this situation.”
