Ongoing Materials Shortages

Global demand for construction coupled with a limited supply of raw materials is putting increasing pressure on projects across the UK. With the continued impact of COVID‐19 and a range of Brexit‐related issues, the supply chain is facing significant challenges, particularly with imported products and materials. Build UK continues to work with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) to publish up‐to‐date information on the availability of key construction materials. Timber is currently the only product RAG‐rated ‘red’, with lead times of between four and six weeks, and there are nine ‘amber’ rated products including cladding, paint, and steel.

 With the latest statement from the CLC Product Availability Group confirming that ‘demand shows few signs of slowing’, Build UK has updated its contractual guidance to help members manage the impact of this and other Brexit‐related issues within their contracts. Produced by Wedlake Bell LLP, Your Contracts Post‐Brexit deals with the changes arising from the introduction of the EU‐UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement and provides comprehensive advice on dealing with a wide range of issues, including delays to time and programme, price and currency fluctuations, and sourcing materials and legal ownership.