Barratt Redrow considers switch to timber-frame construction, FBM warns customers underestimate the cost of bathroom work and tool thieves upend electrician's livelihood
Barratt Redrow is considering a switch to timber-frame construction as brick costs soar.
The cost of bricks, which are produced in gas-powered kilns, is susceptible to changes in energy prices.
The housebuilder warned that higher energy costs are likely to be reflected in increased building materials costs later this year.
John Newcomb, chief executive of the Builders Merchants Federation, said he was hearing of price increases of up to 20% on some materials.
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Homeowners planning bathroom renovations wildly underestimate the cost.
Research from the Federation of Master Builders suggests that over 70% of people believe a full bathroom refit can be done for less than £10,000.
Just 14% of those surveyed had an accurate idea of the actual costs involved.
The trade body warned that unrealistic customer expectations opened the door for cowboy traders to take advantage.
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An electrician’s livelihood had been put in jeopardy after thieves took £10,000 worth of tools from his van.
Liam Shepherd’s vehicle was raided in broad daylight while parked in a Morrison’s car park last week.
Thieves also made off with the tools belonging to his apprentice, Charlie Cookman.
Shepherd predicted the incident would have a “snowball effect” on his work, as he tries to source new equipment and reschedule work.
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