Are we in, or are we out? That’s the question on a lot of people’s minds. One thing that is for sure is that new rules are imminent and some are already in place.

With changes to how businesses can go about importing and exporting goods to and from the EU, some of the rules are bound to have an impact on tradesmen at some point. But what could it mean for construction?

Importing and exporting materials

Being part of the EU meant not only could people move freely, but goods and materials too. This prevented extra costs such as custom duties which obviously aided the construction industry, along with many others, in the UK. 

Whilst we're not sure on exact costs just yet, leaving the EU may see UK importers face more charges or duties for bringing materials into the UK. 

Studies carried out in the past found that a whopping 64% of all building materials in the UK were imported from EU countries, so the potential for a cost increase to get hold of materials you need is very real.  

Staffing

Of course, construction relies on labour from both skilled and unskilled workers. Up until now, many foreign workers have been able to come over to work on jobs within the UK thanks to the right of free movement which the EU offered.

As we leave the EU, foreign workers are likely to find it harder to emigrate to the UK which may lead to a skills shortage. 

A survey carried out recently found that London firms are among those most worried about Brexit due to its current building and infrastructure boom which requires skilled workers from the EU. Leaving the EU could lead to a fall in house building in London at a time when it’s needed most, deepening the housing crisis further.

Adhering to regulations

Up until now, the UK construction industry has been subject to a number of rules from the EU which have made it hard at times for small businesses to keep their practices legal. 

Leaving the EU doesn't mean that the UK will break all ties, and whilst some negotiations may occur, it looks like regulations won't change too much. 

The construction industry will likely still have to adhere to EU trading standards and, if anything, would have a lesser say in setting the standards in the first place.