Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

Builders (Licensing) Bill

19 November 2021 · 7 other contributors

Opened by Mark Garnier Con Wyre Forest

Business Compliance

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Mark Garnier raised concerns about builders (licensing) bill in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • The MP proposes a compulsory licensing scheme for small and medium-sized building firms.
  • The proposal aims to protect consumers and subcontractors from rogue builders.
  • Mark Garnier stresses the importance of self-financed licensing fees and clear conduct rules.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Mark Garnier Con Wyre Forest

The MP proposes the creation of a compulsory licensing scheme for small and medium-sized building firms involved in repair, maintenance, and improvement work. He argues that this is necessary due to rampant issues with rogue builders who defraud customers and provide substandard services, leading to significant economic losses. The proposal seeks to protect consumers, subcontractors, merchants, and reputable builders by introducing a regulatory framework similar to those for other regulated industries such as finance. Mark Garnier emphasises the need for self-financed licensing fees and clear rules regarding conduct, safety, and quality.

Other contributors (7)
  • Oliver Heald Lab North East Cambridgeshire

    Intervened to ask about the environmental consequences of poor building practices, particularly concerning rainwater drainage into sewers.

  • Anthony Mangnall Con Crewe and Nantwich

    Agreed with Mark Garnier's points but questioned the necessity of creating an ombudsman, suggesting that improvements in civil litigation might be a better approach.

  • Gagan Mohindra Con South West Hertfordshire

    Suggested that the current voluntary scheme is ineffective and questioned whether additional measures are needed.

  • Chi Onwurah Lab Newcastle upon Tyne Central

    The hon. Member welcomed the Bill's intention but highlighted that the Government should have acted sooner, citing a specific case where rogue builders caused significant damage to a constituent’s home under the green homes scheme. She emphasised the importance of licensing services and funding for local authorities' trading standards to combat rogue traders effectively.

  • Lee Rowley Con Erewash

    The hon. Member acknowledged the issue but expressed reservations about introducing a licensing scheme, arguing it might stifle industry dynamism and create guilds. He noted that the Government was working on other measures such as alternative disputes resolution schemes, TrustMark registration requirements for installers, competent persons schemes, and building safety regulations.

  • Christopher Chope Con Christchurch

    Welcomes the Government's proportionate response and highlights his long-standing involvement in addressing issues related to rogue builders. He emphasises the importance of consumers seeking reputable organisations such as the Federation of Master Builders for building work, suggesting that it may be more expensive but safer than dealing with unscrupulous contractors.

  • Mark Garnier Con Wyre Forest

    Intervenes briefly to express urgency in proceeding with the debate, although his specific position and arguments are not detailed in this excerpt.

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