Despite the global pandemic that has ravaged the world over the last 2 plus years, building consents are up and most building companies and contractors are getting more work than they can handle. Unfortunately there is also a lot of uncertainty. There are difficulties with materials supply, costs seem to rise on a monthly basis, and there is a shortage of trade specialists to do the work. This causes disruption to jobs that are in progress and long waiting periods for jobs to even start – there seem to be no signs of these issues getting resolved any time soon.

So why are there building supply shortages?

There are a number of different factors that have combined together to create the “perfect storm”: factory closures during the height of the pandemic meant that there were backlogs in production. Interest rates dropped to historic lows which meant that people decided now was the time to borrow money and build or renovate their homes, especially as overseas holidays were off the agenda. The increased demand for materials drove up materials prices, coupled with the scarcity of raw materials for many industries and lack of labour meant that we are now left with expensive materials that are hard to get into production. A great deal of materials used in NZ are imported, lengthy shipping delays add to the issues.

Tips to Help Deal with Ongoing Supply Issues

If you are on site and materials fail to arrive, it can bring the whole site to a grinding halt. Here are some tips to help building companies and individuals manage this risk:

Identify which materials, if unavailable, would disrupt your project

It can help to list materials in order of importance along with the part of the project they will be required for.  By working out which materials you will be relying on and when, you can plan well in advance for any delays.

Consider booking manufacturing slots in advance of gaining a contract/starting works

If you quote for a large scale project, it may be prudent to book a slot for any manufacturing you will require as soon as you know the dates. If you win the contract you can be assured you have the slot and if you don’t win the contract you will most likely need the slot for another project anyway. 

Pre order materials

Even if supply seems to be OK for a material, it pays to pre order. If you have materials ordered and have been supplied a delivery date, you can give clients realistic time frames.

Communicate with your clients

This is a situation that is largely out of your hands, and your clients will understand. But only if you keep them in the loop. Be honest and explain what is happening and what dates you have been given (if any).

Keep good lines of communication open with suppliers

You’ll want to be well aware of when stock is due to arrive, and any updates within the supply chain. It is critical that you communicate with your suppliers regularly.

Don’t rely on a single supplier

Make sure you have a backup supplier you can use if your main supplier is unable to fulfil your orders.

Triple check your orders

When supplies are low and delays are the norm, you need to make sure you get everything right with your orders. If you order too little of a material your job may have to go on hold until you can source more. Similarly, if you get dimensions or other specifications wrong, you won’t be able to quickly obtain the correct materials. Make sure to thoroughly check all orders you make.

Despite the ongoing supply chain issues, Roofline can still supply all your lightweight steel cladding products. Our experienced and qualified team can supply and install re-roofing products on residential and commercial properties. Roofline offers a full design, manufacture and installation package, saving you time and giving you peace of mind that an experienced, reputable company is looking after your reroofing project.

Get in touch with us today for a free, no obligation quote.