The UK has more methods of constructing homes than any other country in the world, and the number is growing all the time, according to a new report published by the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML).
The new research report, produced jointly with Building Research Establishment, examines current developments as well as the history of non-traditional construction. In particular, it looks at the drive to use off-site manufacturing techniques and the attitudes to this of housing associations, builders, surveyors and insurers, as well as lenders.
Peter Williams, deputy director general at the CML, said: ‘Lenders are taking a positive approach to new building techniques but a central issue for them will continue to be whether a building holds its value in the long term. This can be difficult to assess because there are so many types of construction on the market.’
He added: ‘The report does not provide all the answers but it gives lenders and others an overview of market developments and issues. The current housing market is providing a strong impetus for the further development of innovative building techniques and lenders will continue to support this wherever possible.’
Surprisingly, pre-fabricated housing was identified as having a crucial role in the Government’s plans to provide affordable housing for key workers in areas like London and the South East, where prices have risen rapidly in recent years.
