Certifiable! Another looming blow for supply of construction materials?

Much has been written recently about the current issues facing supply of construction materials and the resulting effect on project cost and programme (including my comments of 13 May 2021 https://insights.wedlakebell.com/post/102gy1g/construction-workloads-recover-rosy-outlook-or-rough-seas-ahead).

Whilst not as immediate as the current supply shortages, the issues regarding certification of construction materials caused by Brexit, have the potential to further restrict supply if not addressed by the end of 2021.

Currently construction materials bearing either the EU-wide CE certification or the UK Government's new UKCA regime may both be used. However, come the end of 2021 the transition period ends and it is a whole new ball game.

From 1 January 2022, materials with CE certification will need to be re-tested to be accredited under the new UKCA scheme and on current projections in many instances there will be inadequate testing facilities to conduct such tests (or no such facilities for certain specialist products).

Unless the transition period is extended beyond the end of 2021, or testing capacity is adequately increased before year end, it is difficult to see how the change in certification regimes will do other than add to the supply, cost and delay woes facing the construction industry.