Labour shortages for roofing contractors

A recent survey from Glenigan of more than 100 members of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) has found that roofing and cladding contractors are still struggling with recruitment issues in the third quarter of 2022. But, this survey does confirm that this issue has slightly eased since the start of the year with 51% of firms saying that they are experiencing recruitment issues in the third quarter of this year, compared to 61% in the second quarter.

Are there certain roles that are difficult to recruit for?

The survey found that roof slaters and tilers were the most difficult tradespeople to recruit with 35% struggling to recruit tradespeople with these skills. This was an increase of 8% compared to the previous survey.

• 23% found difficulty recruiting built-up felt roofers.
• 20% found difficulty recruiting general labourers.

Staff retention is also an issue

Not only are these firms struggling to recruit. But 32% said that they are struggling to retain new starters.

Are these recruitment issues affecting productivity?

One anonymous respondent to the survey said that with enough staff their firm would be able to double its output.

The overall results of the survey found that contractors' workload increased by 32% in the third quarter in Great Britain. Furthermore, the direct headcount of employees in the sector increased by 4% in the third quarter. However, enquiries decreased by a balance of 7% in the third quarter. This was the first time this figure has been negative since the survey first began in 2020. This could be pointing towards a slowdown in workload in the not-too-distant future. Therefore, recruitment may become less of an issue if this slowdown in the market continues.

How can we help?

Hawsons has a dedicated team of specialist property and construction accountants in Sheffield, Doncaster and Northampton.

Having an accountant who understands the challenges of this dynamic sector and is able to help you plan for the future is an advantage in a competitive environment. At Hawsons we have a great deal of experience in advising and helping businesses in property and construction and we can assist you as your business grows.

Our in-house tax team has advised in many aspects of taxation specific to the property investor including in the areas of VAT, Capital Allowances, Income Tax, and Corporation Tax and Capital Taxes.