A shortage of bricklayers and other construction workers in the UK means long wait times for homeowners seeking construction services.
According to Fix Radio's National Construction Audit, as of 2021, 415,000 people were waiting for construction workers for more than a year.
In addition to construction workers, 301,000 households are waiting for plumbers and heating installers each year, 294,000 roofers and 274,000 carpenters.
Industry experts have highlighted how this skills shortage is severely impacting major projects, such as the delayed completion of Manchester’s Co-op Live venue.