Julia Evans: utility providers are "still not getting the message"
A survey from the National Federation of Builders (NFB) has revealed that housebuilders are suffering financial losses due to the poor performance of utility companies.
The Utilities Survey 2011 found that 73 per cent of sites operated by NFB members experienced problems and delays getting connected to water, gas and electricity networks.
Julia Evans, chief executive of the NFB, said: “It is disappointing to see that utility providers are still not getting the message. In this tough climate, funds are stretched and unnecessary delays cost our members dear. The economy is currently handing the construction industry its toughest challenge for decades and the last thing contractors need is to pay thousands of pounds up front for a connection to fund network development, which is then delayed by the poor performance of a utility company raking in huge profits. Our priority is to continue to work closely with the regulators and utilities to ensure better communications, a more reliable service and greater transparency of costs and competition.”