Fall in R&M building work signals a tough year for builders: FMB

​​​​​​​With activity declining across most construction sectors and signs that repair and maintenance work is also slowing, many firms are facing a tough start to 2026

A 1.5% fall in repair and maintenance work in Q4 2025, as reported in the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), signals a rough year ahead for builders working in the domestic building market, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB, said: “The ONS figures confirming that total construction output fell by 2.1% in Q4 2025 show that conditions for small builders deteriorated significantly towards the end of last year.”

Falling output alongside a drop in new orders shows that workloads are shrinking and confidence is ebbing away across the sector.

The weakness in private new housing is particularly concerning, as this demonstrates that the Government’s housing targets are falling behind.

With activity declining across most construction sectors and signs that repair and maintenance work is also slowing, many firms are facing a tough start to 2026.

The Government must act quickly to stabilise the economic environment, restore confidence and get projects moving again.

That means investing in planning capacity, supporting access to finance, and a clear, long-term strategy for housing and construction.

He adds: “Without decisive intervention, there is a real risk that small builders will continue to pull back, making it harder to grow the economy and deliver the homes the country urgently needs.”