Utility survey launched by contractor's body

Contractor's trade body the National Federation of Builders is carrying out a major study into how utility firms perform in relation to the construction industry. The survey follows criticism from the industry that connections to utility networks on sites are often delayed or botched by utility firms leading to major knock-on effects to construction programmes.

The NFB has sent over 6,000 questionnaires to individual contractors across all sectors and sizes of projects to build an accurate picture of problems experienced by the sector. Respondents will be asked on issues such as poor communication, the time taken to issue a quotation and the non-adherence to an agreed programme of work.

NFB chief executive Julie Evans said: "Throughout the sector, major difficulties are experienced when member companies attempt to make new connections to the utility networks. This creates numerous problems for contractors, from project delays to financial losses and penalties through no fault of their own.

"We are sourcing evidence on a site-by-site basis of both the worst and best practice apparent across the country in order to generate a compelling argument to government, regulators and utility providers alike that there is a need for change so that service inadequacies can be addressed".

The survey follows initial pilot research conducted by the NFB last year amongst a proportion of its 2,000 member companies. Frustration and resentment was found amongst many contractors due to unjustified planning bureaucracy and unwarranted delays in obtaining quotations and services from utility providers.

At the time, four out of five construction projects were reported to have experienced some form of utility provider problem. Gas and electricity supply issues were found to occur in 43% of projects, while water supply problems were apparent in half of projects.

The NFB is leading the Construction Confederation's member federations, in association with the National Contractors Federation (NCF) and the Major Contractors Group (MCG), in addressing the issues.

Any companies interested in participating in the research can download a copy of the survey from the NFBs website, contact the national office on 0870 8989 091 or email national@builders.org.uk