Richard Quigley MP claimed proper regulation could shield consumers and support genuine tradespeople.

Speaking on the FMB podcast Build up from the Basement, Mr Quigley addressed the urgent need for reform in an industry where rogue operators can devastate families' finances and dreams of home ownership.

The MP spoke about his constituents on the Isle of Wight who have fallen victim to unscrupulous builders: "When you've got constituents coming to you saying, 'We've been a victim of a rogue builder,' you're not talking about a couple of hundred quid. You're talking about people who've lost £30,000, £40,000, £50,000 and are not in a position where their home is what they wanted—or even safe."

Highlighting the current regulatory gap, he noted: "At the minute, there's nothing to stop anyone setting up as a builder. You could set up as builders tomorrow."

When asked if he supported licensing building companies, Mr Quigley MP threw his full support behind it - "No decent builder will be against it - good builders want to be distinguished from the rogues. They want customers to have confidence in their work and qualifications."

His support comes as the government is expected to respond soon to the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee's (ESNZ) - recommendation for licensing in the retrofit sector, following the ESNZ Committee's findings on the urgent need for consumer protection in home improvement works.

CEO of the Federation of Master Builders, Brian Berry said: "I am delighted that the MP for the Isle of Wight West, Richard Quigley has openly backed the FMB’s campaign for the licensing of building companies.

"We need to get the issue on the Government's agenda as soon as possible - whilst continuing to drum up support in Parliament, from all sides of the house on this vital issue of rogue builders.”