Raising competence levels among domestic builders should be among future changes to the industry to ensure all buildings are safe, urges the Federation of Master Builders, FMB.
The trade body said although the work done by local builders was far removed from that investigated by the Grenfell Tower inquiry, standards should still be raised.
FMB chief executive Brian Berry said: “The new government needs to turn away from a culture of cutting regulation, which in part has led to poor building safety, and license domestic builders, underpinning the building regime with minimum standards.”
He said this would introduce competency from “the ground up” and would help the industry shake off its poor reputation driven by rogue operators who can “trade free from consequence”.
Mr Berry acknowledged the government had tried to regulate domestic builders through the building safety act outlining high-level requirements but without any underpinning competence.
“This has left builders confused and worried about committing to work they feel they may no longer be competent to do. The new government must address this immediately, so the industry has clear guidance”.
Brokers Hank Zarihs Associates said development finance lenders supported the idea of a licensing system for raising standards and protecting good builders.
Fundamental change in the construction industry must happen
Inquiry chair Sir Martin Moore-Bick criticised the manufacturers of the rainscreen cladding and insulation in the refurbishment of Grenfell Tower for “systematic dishonesty” over their safety.
The Construction Products Association chief executive Peter Caplehorn said: “We continue to work closely with manufacturers, government, the regulators and industry to develop and introduce new standards and legislation that will drive reform.
“This is not job done. The Inquiry report is the most powerful reminder, if we needed one, that we must double down on safety. We are committed to continuing this important work.”
Sir Martin said although some steps had been taken to respond to failures more should be done to bring about a “fundamental change” in the construction industry.
Inquiry member and former chief executive of Unity Homes and Enterprise housing association Ali Akbor said: “What is needed is for those with responsibility for building safety to reflect and to treat Grenfell as a touchstone in all that they do in the future.”
Key recommendations of the final report into the Grenfell fire include appointing a construction regulator to oversee all aspects of the industry and bringing fire safety under one government body.
The report also called for mandatory fire safety strategies for higher-risk buildings and establishing a college of fire and rescue.
Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer told MPs at question time that in memory of Grenfell, there would be a “generational shift in the safety and quality of housing for everyone”.
“We will change our country. Not just a change in policy and regulation, although that must of course take place, but a profound shift in culture and behaviour.
“A rebalancing of power that gives voice and respect to every citizen, whoever they are, wherever they live.”