Material and Trade Shortages & Delays
Posted
Master Builders ACT are aware of the ongoing supply issues with many building materials and trades. Master Builders is having continuous discussions with the Timber associations, the Federal Trade Minister and the ACT Government, about these issues. We will continue to raise awareness of the gravity of the situation within the industry, government, and the public.
Supply is obviously having an impact on the progress of building works as well as causing an increase in the cost of some materials and trades.
We remind members to:
- Factor these delays into your building pipeline.
- Speak with your clients to discuss the potential delays that may be experienced. In some instances, contracts may need to be varied or extended.
- Where contracts are yet to be signed, we recommend that you take into account trade and material shortages, as well as the potential for increased costs, before you do so.
The MBA ACT Home Building Contract has provision for the Builder to increase the Contract Sum if any delays result in an increase to Actual Costs. We recommend you review clause 13 and 15 of the contract.
The NSW Residential Building Contract does not have the same explicit provision. If members have ongoing projects using the NSW BC4 contract, we recommend you consider utilising clause 11.
Members should contact the Member Services Team to discuss any specific issues you may be facing.
To assist members in having conversations with clients, we have prepared a letter that you may wish to give to your clients. You can access it here.
Your feedback on these issues is vitally important. Please attend upcoming sector meetings, participate in surveys when they are released, and contact us with your feedback. We need this information in order to advocate on your behalf to government – both locally and federally – to ensure that where appropriate, action is taken.
If you need assistance or advice in how to extend your contract due to trade or material shortages or delays, please contact the Member Services Team on (02) 6175 5900.
