Housebuilding – What to know before taking on bigger projects

Building control - What builders need to know now

Building control is changing, and many builders are feeling the impact. In this episode of the Build Up podcast, we look at what the Building Safety Act means in practice, why roles and responsibilities can feel unclear, and how builders can protect themselves with better records and communication. We hear from Local Authority Building Control (LABC), builders from southern parts of the UK, as well as a Scottish builder up north to compare how the system works across the country. It's a practical discussion for builders dealing with more paperwork, higher expectations and the need to prove compliance on every job. You'll learn: 1. How building control expectations have changed 2. Why clear roles matter between builders, designers and clients 3. How records, photos and documentation can protect your business 4. What builders in England and Scotland can learn from each other Hosts: David Gutierrez, Aidan Cropper Anchor: Amy Voce Guests: Peter Atkins, AS Homes and Construction Victoria Collins, KingsRock Construction Pam Wilson, Kevin Wilson Master Builders Peter Keats, LABC Email buildup@fmb.org.uk and tell us what you'll be putting into practice.

Social value – How builders can support communities and grow responsibly

What role can builders play beyond delivering the job? In this episode of the Build Up podcast, we look at how good construction can improve homes, support communities and still make commercial sense. Reza Yunis and Kaleem Ghani from Redbrickz share how they're raising standards in transitional housing, refurbishing existing buildings and creating better places for people to live. It's a practical conversation about quality, purpose and the wider impact builders can have through their work. You'll learn: 1. How better homes can improve people's lives 2. Why raising standards in existing buildings matter 3. How community-focused work can support business growth 4. Where builders can start if they want to do more locally Hosts: David Gutierrez, Aidan Cropper Anchor: Amy Voce Guests: Reza Yunis, Redbrickz Property Management Ltd; Kaleem Ghani, Redbrickz Property Management Ltd Email buildup@fmb.org.uk and tell us what you'll be putting into practice.

Conflict avoidance – How to keep building projects on track

Conflict can cost time, money and trust. In this episode of the Build Up podcast, we look at how builders can avoid common disputes before they happen, from unclear scopes and payment terms to changes that aren't written down. Sarah Fox shares why simple, clear contracts matter, while Jason Grounsell explains how strong communication, proper records and early conversations help keep projects running smoothly. It's practical advice for builders who want fewer surprises and stronger client relationships. You'll learn: * Why most conflict starts with unclear expectations * What every contract should cover before work begins * How to manage changes, payments and client conversations * Why good records can protect your business Hosts: David Gutierrez, Aidan Cropper Anchor: Amy Voce Guests: Sarah Fox, Legal consultant; Jason Grounsell, Director of TED Construction & Developments Ltd Email buildup@fmb.org.uk and tell us what you'll be putting into practice.

Housebuilding – What to know before taking on bigger projects

Thinking about moving into housebuilding? In this episode of the Build Up podcast, we look at what it really takes to make the jump from extensions and renovations to new build homes. Kev Wilson shares the lessons he learned from taking on housebuilding projects, from checking plots properly to managing utilities, finance and workload. Gill McAteer from Citation also joins us to talk about the people side of growth, including contracts, HR and managing a bigger team. You’ll learn: 1. What to check before taking on a plot 2. Why housebuilding needs a different plan to smaller jobs 3. How growth changes your role as a business owner 4. Why HR, contracts and team structure matter as you scale Hosts: David Gutierrez, Aidan Cropper Anchor: Amy Voce Guests: Gill McAteer, Kev Wilson Download our free guide to becoming a small housing developer, sponsored by United Trust Bank and Openreach: fmb.org.uk/developer [https://www.fmb.org.uk/developer/]. For more in-depth guidance, you can view a recording of a webinar on moving into housing development: fmb.org.uk/housingdevelopment [https://www.fmb.org.uk/housingdevelopment]. Email buildup@fmb.org.uk and tell us what you’ll be putting into practice.

Builder journey – What it takes to build a stronger business

Body copy: What does it take to grow a building business without losing control of quality, culture and client experience? In this episode of the Build Up podcast, we hear from Alex Strikovs, Director of Home Republic Limited, about the decisions, challenges and systems that helped turn a small business into an award-winning design and build company. If you’re juggling site work, pricing, people and plans for growth, this episode is packed with practical insight. Alex shares why better systems, clearer roles and stronger communication can help you build a business that works better for your team and your clients. You’ll learn: 1. How to step back from the tools and focus on growing the business 2. Why systems and delegation matter when you want to scale 3. How investing in people can strengthen performance and culture 4. What helps create a more consistent client experience from quote to completion Hosts: David Gutierrez, Aidan Cropper Anchor: Amy Voce Email buildup@fmb.org.uk and tell us what you’ll be putting into practice