by Oscar Venus | 20 Jun, 2025 | Contractual and Legal, Drylining, Insurance
Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) is taking a stand against poor behaviour in the supply chain. Members working in the housebuilding sector have raised concerns about unfair snagging practices on plaster or tape and jointed walls where LED lights are being used at shallow angles to inspect the finish.
This improper practice whereby the light is shined close to, or directly against the surface of the wall, highlights surface imperfections which are normally imperceptible to the human eye well within tolerance when industry-standard inspection methods are used.
On launching the campaign, Iain McIlwee, FIS Chief Executive stated: “We often talk about the culture of construction and that means we need to look at all behaviours and the effect they have. It is clear to us that this over-zealous approach to inspection is creating a lot of bad feeling and straining relationships. Our belief is that the practice has little to do with quality and everything to do with keeping pressure on the supply chain, making sure sub-contractors are operating under commercial tension. In the worst of cases it is being used to delay, reduce or withhold payment and with that all the cashflow and mental health issues that plague SMEs in the supply chain. Sometimes problems can be put down to people not understanding the standards and techniques, but in reality, it is often little more than bullying behaviours and has no place in the sector today.”
To tackle the problem head-on, FIS has published new guidance which members are encouraged to download and share with their clients ahead of starting work. This guidance covers how inspections should be conducted and encourages the classification of the flatness of the plastered finish is agreed along with the level of smooth finishes before work starts.
FIS Head of Technical James Parlour said: “Over the years we’ve tried attacking this problem from purely a technical perspective, but frustratingly people continue to ignore the standards. Change won’t happen unless we put our heads above the parapet and start to call out bad behaviour. This latest guidance and supporting resources should help align expectations and inspections to the standards and ensure that we avoid glancing light issues in inspection which exaggerate even the smallest of imperfections.
We do appreciate that it can be difficult for individual members to do this directly, but we are also asking members to report to us when they encounter these bad practices and we can pick it up as a collective effort.
So the message is clear, if you are inspecting drylining and plaster finishes, refer to the standards and ensure that your processes are informed, fair and realistic. If you are a specialist contractor and have experienced unfair snagging practices, don’t just put up with it and move on reach out to us in confidence so we can log cases and start to challenge businesses to improve”.
Beyond site tension FIS is also concerned the effect bad practices have on those looking to start a career in the sector. Young people are being encouraged into the industry but when they are faced with this culture and ruthless nature many leave before they have had chance to really see what a good career the construction industry can offer. We need to create a better culture on site to attract and retain the people we need.
To support the campaign FIS will be launching a short video to help showcase the problem and is develop new training to support inspections. You can register on the FIS website to receive free access to the training when it is launched later this summer.
For more information and to keep an eye on developments visit the FIS Shine a Light Campaign page here.
To report your experiences, email details in confidence to info@thefis.org or call 0121 707 0077.
by Oscar Venus | 20 Jun, 2025 | Skills
FIS is encouraging members to get involved with the Go Construct STEM Ambassador Programme, a fantastic opportunity to help shape the future of the finishes and interiors sector.
Passionate about inspiring young people and raising awareness of careers in construction? Join one of the upcoming Go Construct webinars to discover how STEM Ambassadors are already making an impact and how you can play a part. You’ll be introduced to the STEM Learning platform, get a step-by-step guide to becoming an Ambassador, and have the chance to sign up live.
Upcoming webinar sessions:
Whether you’re new to outreach or already active in career engagement, this is a great way to boost your confidence, connect with schools and colleges, and support young people exploring construction careers.
To register for your preferred session, contact Marie Flinter at marieflinter@thefis.org.
Let’s work together to make a real difference in the sector’s future.
by Oscar Venus | 20 Jun, 2025 | Main News Feed
FIS recently attended a key meeting hosted by Build UK and the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) to support members involved in the development of Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs) in preparing for Gateway Three, the final approval stage before occupation under the new building safety regime.
The BSR confirmed that Gateway Three submissions must demonstrate how the building was constructed and serve as an update to the design intent information submitted at Gateway Two. During the meeting, a number of key challenges were raised, including the management of controlled changes, strategies for partial completions, and alignment with other contractual obligations.
To help address these issues, Build UK will soon publish guidance outlining the information required in a Gateway Three application. This will build on earlier guidance for Gateway Two, providing much-needed clarity and support for members navigating this complex process.
FIS continues to work closely with Build UK and the BSR to ensure that the finishes and interiors community is well informed and equipped to meet new regulatory demands. Members are encouraged to explore the FIS Building Safety Act Toolkit and take advantage of specialist training resources developed to support compliance with the Building Safety Act.
If you have questions or would like support in relation to Gateway Three, please contact iainmcilwee@thefis.org.
by Oscar Venus | 20 Jun, 2025 | Health and Safety
With the UK currently experiencing a heatwave, FIS is reminding members of the potential risks extreme temperatures pose not just to health and safety, but to the performance of materials on site.
When working in high temperatures, it’s vital to consider how heat affects plasters, compounds, and other materials commonly used in interior systems. FIS strongly advises members to consult material data sheets for temperature guidance and adjust working practices where necessary.
To support our members, FIS has produced a dedicated factsheet: Materials Performance of Plasters and Compounds in Extreme Heat. This guidance focuses on risks to finishes and performance, particularly when working in conditions exceeding 25°C.
Download our factsheet (member access only).
In addition, we encourage all members to review the FIS Health and Safety Toolkit, which includes links to helpful HSE advice on managing workplace conditions during hot weather: H&S Toolkit.
Let’s keep quality and safety at the forefront this summer.
by Oscar Venus | 19 Jun, 2025 | Main News Feed
Build UK is set to publish Version 5 of the Common Assessment Standard (CAS) on 1 July 2025. This latest version marks a significant milestone, as the Building Safety section, introduced in 2024, will now become mandatory for all companies undertaking design or building work under the Building Safety Act.
The new version also includes key updates across several other sections:
These updates reflect the most recent legislation and industry guidance. From 1 July, companies undergoing CAS certification will be required to complete this updated question set. Notably, several Build UK Contractor members will expect certain Specialist Contractors in their supply chain to have successfully completed the Building Safety section by 1 October 2025.
The Common Assessment Standard continues to gain traction across public and private sector clients as a key tool to demonstrate organisational capability and compliance under the Building Safety Act. Certification is required only once via any of the Recognised Assessment Bodies, and businesses are encouraged to review their current accreditations to avoid duplication and reduce unnecessary bureaucracy in pre-qualification.
FIS plays an active role in shaping this standard and hosts a mirror group that reviews and feeds into the assessment criteria. If you would like to be involved in this group and contribute to the future of CAS, please contact jamesparlour@thefis.org.
by Oscar Venus | 30 May, 2025 | Skills
CITB is working in collaboration with NHBC to develop new Homebuilding Access Training Standards as part of the wider Homebuilding Access Scheme. This joint initiative, involving CITB, the UK Government, and the National House Building Council, aims to address the critical need for skilled workers to support the construction of 1.5 million new homes by 2029.
These new standards, focused initially on drylining, will be delivered as Short Duration Standards. They are being shaped in direct consultation with industry stakeholders to ensure training is practical, relevant, and aligned with recognised standards.
FIS is encouraging members to get involved and support this important work. If you’re interested in contributing to the development of these standards, please contact Beena Nana.
by Oscar Venus | 30 May, 2025 | Main News Feed
FIS is proud to be partnering with The Skills Centre to support the launch of a new 4-week Interior Systems Bootcamp, starting 2 June 2025 at the Build East training facility in Stratford, London.
This intensive programme is designed to equip learners with the practical skills and knowledge they need to take their first steps into our industry. As part of our commitment to tackling the skills shortage and nurturing new talent, we’re calling on FIS members in the Greater London area to get involved.
Can you offer work experience, employment opportunities, or apprenticeships to these aspiring interior systems installers?
We are arranging site visits for interested employers during:
This is a fantastic opportunity to meet the next generation of fit-out professionals and support their journey into the sector.
To find out more or express your interest, please contact Beena.
by Oscar Venus | 29 May, 2025 | Awards
The countdown has begun for this year’s Inspiring Change Conference & Awards, and nominations are now open.
With new and exciting categories introduced for 2025, the awards are an opportunity to highlight the individuals, teams, and organisations within the finishes and interiors sector who are leading the way in Fairness, Inclusion, and Respect (FIR) across the built environment.
Deadline for nominations: Friday 13 June 2025
You can nominate a colleague, a project, or yourself. If you or someone you know is making a meaningful impact in fostering an inclusive, respectful, and fair workplace culture, we want to hear from you.
Award Categories Open for Nomination:
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TfL FIR Ambassador of the Year Award
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HS2 FIR Inspiration Award
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National Highways FIR Innovator Award
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Network Rail SME of the Year Award
Team-Selected Awards (not open for nomination):
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FIR Learner of the Year Award
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FIR Lifetime Achievement Award
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Diversity Data Benchmarking (SME & Large Organisation)
Conference and Awards Ceremony Details:
Date: Tuesday 15 July 2025
Venue: Grand Connaught Rooms, London
These awards not only celebrate progress but also inspire further action across the construction sector. Limited spaces are available for the conference, so early registration is encouraged.
To learn more about the award categories, judging criteria, or to submit your nomination, visit here.
Let’s continue to inspire change, starting with your nomination. Thank you for helping us celebrate the champions of a more inclusive and progressive industry.
by Oscar Venus | 23 May, 2025 | Health and Safety, Technical
We have been working with a panel of industry experts to address organisational competence amongst contractors. This group has been instrumental in helping us produce building safety policy guidance for those who are accredited on a pre-qualification (PQQ) scheme equivalent to the Build UK Common Assessment Standard (CAS). This guidance should be a timely and meaningful intervention with the June deadline rapidly approaching for the Building Safety section of the CAS becoming mandatory.
It is vital members get on top of this because, whilst companies can currently opt out of the new questions and maintain accreditation, we have been advised the additional questions related to work in scope of the Building Safety Act will become mandatory from as early as the 9th June 2025. Added to this, they provide a good framework for challenging your internal processes. FIS team ran through the questions with a group of members in early May and whilst most should be straightforward, we can provide additional advise based on this discussion and support. If you need any advice in the process, please call FIS on 0121 707 0077 or email info@thefis.org and we will direct you to the appropriate member of our team. If you have comments on the questions, FIS has been invited to join the drafting panel for future editions of the Common Assessment Standard, so please direct comments to jamesparlour@thefis.org.
As a final point FIS is always willing to follow-up requests for specific PQQ schemes as the Common Assessment Standard is designed to support interoperability and remove the need for duplication of accreditation efforts across multiple schemes (this is part of our Responsible No Campaign)
The draft policy document can be found here
by Oscar Venus | 23 May, 2025 | Market data, Technical
FIS responded on behalf if it’s members to the Government Consultation on their Construction Products Reform Green Paper. This paper details plans to increase the oversight of testing and conformity assessment bodies, third party product certification schemes, the role of the general product safety regulations in governing construction products not covered by an existing designated standard. The paper also consults on the introduction of digital product passports and environmental performance characteristics from the new EU Construction Products Regulations along with a suite of measures to enable reuse of construction products. The FIS gathered views from across our membership profile through our working groups and beyond, and we are incredibly grateful to all those who gave their time and expertise to inform a comprehensive response.
In the FIS response we have highlighted the need to review designer responsibility with producer responsibility to ensure key performance and compliance issues are addressed where interface and compatibility issues are essential to overall building performance. The need to consider future life of materials and ensure regulation does not halt the growing market for product re-use and a more circular approach in its tracks. We have also touched on the need to balance Intellectual Property consideration with transparency and support to ensure that the compliance environment works to encourage innovation and doesn’t create onerous compliance loops that limit opportunities to modernise methods of construction. Availability of Standards and the balance a regulator needs to find with respect to robust enforcement and encouraging “black box thinking”.
Thanks to all members who have shared their views and helped shape our response. If you have additional views, this is not the end of the road an Government have committed to ongoing consultation around the key subjects raised in this Green Paper.
The full text of our response can be found here:
Green Paper Consultation – FIS Response
by Oscar Venus | 9 May, 2025 | Main News Feed
FIS will be responding on behalf of its members to the Government green paper consultation on construction products reform. We have been in discussion with individuals throughout the supply chain and have gathered views across all areas of the consultation. Members have one more week to give us your comments if you wish for us to include them in our response, and would encourage you to contact jamesparlour@thefis.org with any comments you have.
Conversations with our members to date have highlighted a few key concerns:
- Lack of harmonisation between regulatory approaches for products with and without a designated standard, means that manufacturers may have to undergo very different processes in order to achieve compliance with regulations as designated standards are introduced over time, or depending on the products they sell. A universal approach that encompasses both product categories would be desirable.
- Recommendations of additional measures for safety critical products such as requiring the use of third party certification schemes are welcomed, however a proportional approach will be needed for some non-fire risk related performance characteristics that whilst potentially fulfilling the definition of safety critical, present a much lower risk in real terms.
- The requirement for manufacturers of products not covered by a designated standard to produce a risk assessment that eliminates or controls safety risk related to “reasonably foreseeable conditions of use” requires much more clarity to ensure that manufacturers are not held to unreasonable standards relating to improper use of products by other operators in the supply chain.
Peter Capelhorn of the Construction Products Association (CPA) recorded a webinar with Building Safety Minister Alex Norris MP there they discussed the consultation in detail which can be viewed here:
Construction Products Green Paper Webinar 030425
Anyone can respond directly to the consultation before 21/05/25 at the link below:
Construction Products Reform Green Paper – Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government – Citizen Space
by Oscar Venus | 9 May, 2025 | Main News Feed
FIS is proud to support Mental Health Awareness Week, taking place from 12–18 May 2025, led by the Mental Health Foundation. This year’s theme – community – serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of human connection in supporting our mental wellbeing.
Being part of a positive, safe community helps people to feel supported, find purpose, and know they are not alone, values that align strongly with our mission at FIS. In the finishes and interiors sector, building a culture that prioritises mental health is more important than ever.
To support this, FIS has created a Mental Health Hub, offering access to resources, best practice guidance, and signposting for members and their teams. We encourage everyone in the sector to take a moment during this week to connect with others, share experiences, and promote a culture of care and support within their organisations.
Visit the FIS Mental Health Hub to find out more.
Let’s continue to build strong, connected communities, both on and off-site.
by Oscar Venus | 9 May, 2025 | Contractual and Legal
With recent figures revealing that the construction industry experienced the highest number of insolvencies over the past year, the resilience of the supply chain remains a priority, and Build UK’s contract terms recommendation identifies six contract terms which should be avoided to promote collaboration and ensure a fair allocation of risk
- Fitness for Purpose – Do not include a ‘fitness for purpose’ standard of care for design (except in the process sector)
- Unquantifiable Risks – Do not include delay/loss and expense risk where not reasonably ascertainable for dealing with asbestos; fossils, antiquities and other objects of interest or value; unexploded ordnance; and the carrying out by statutory bodies of work in pursuance of their statutory obligations
- ‘Specified Perils’ – Do not include that ‘Specified Perils’ (as defined in JCT) will not give rise to extension of time where caused by the (sub-)contractor
- Breach of Contract – Do not include a blanket indemnity for breach of contract
- Uncapped Liabilities – Do not include uncapped (sub-)contractor liability (save for certain aggregate cap carve-outs)
- Performance Securities – Do not use a pure on-demand performance bond; a Parent Company Guarantee (PCG) which does not include a ‘no greater liability’ clause and equivalent rights of defence; or a collateral warranty which does not include a ‘no greater liability’ clause.
Build UK have published comprehensive guidance to help implement the recommendation, explaining why each term should not be used and setting out ways to manage the underlying issues more effectively, with specific guidance for JCT and NEC contracts. The recommendation is non‐binding and FIS members are free to negotiate their own contractual terms with their clients.
by Oscar Venus | 9 May, 2025 | Main News Feed
With the Employment Rights Bill expected to receive Royal Assent this summer, FIS members are encouraged to review upcoming changes that will significantly reshape the employment landscape. Described by Government as the ‘biggest upgrade to rights at work for a generation’, the Bill introduces new rights and protections, improved working conditions, and stronger enforcement measures.
FIS Partner Citation has published a helpful overview of the proposed reforms, which include removing the two-year qualifying period for unfair dismissal, day-one rights to leave and sick pay, and making flexible working the default unless proven unreasonable. Most changes are expected to take effect by April 2026.
We urge members to familiarise themselves with these changes and review existing HR policies. You can download the guide from Citation (basic contact details required), and FIS members can also access tailored advice by calling 0161 504 0843 and quoting their membership.
This is a significant moment for employers, early planning will ensure a smoother transition.
by Oscar Venus | 9 May, 2025 | Market data
On 8 May, the U.K. and the U.S. agreed a trade deal. The full details have not been outlined, but overall, the agreement leaves tariffs on most UK goods entering the US at a higher rate (10%) than before the tariff disruptions (around 2.5% on average). There is little direct economic impact given that only 2% of GDP comes from goods exports to the U.S., but it is helpful that the U.K. has agreed to a trade deal to prevent the risk that tariffs go up substantially at the end of the 90-day pause. It may also be a strong positive for some affected sectors and companies. For example, for U.K. steel and aluminium, the U.S. tariffs of 25% announced in March have been reduced to zero. However, it is currently unclear whether this will also apply to steel and aluminium derivative products as well, so the full details of the agreement will be important. Interest rate cuts announced yesterday have already been factored in to growth forecasts, but should provide stimulus, particularly in the housing sector.
by Oscar Venus | 9 May, 2025 | Health and Safety
FIS welcomes and supports the joint call by industry groups across the EU and UK for a mutual recognition agreement (MRA) on conformity assessment. The position paper, co-signed by Construction Products Europe and the Construction Products Association (CPA), outlines a clear and pragmatic case for reducing technical barriers to trade between the two regions.
The proposed MRA would allow products certified in either the UK or EU to be recognised in both markets, avoiding the need for costly and duplicative assessments. This is especially critical for manufacturers and suppliers in the finishes and interiors sector, many of whom are SMEs already facing increased regulatory and financial pressures.
Key benefits of the MRA include:
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Lower compliance costs, supporting export growth
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Improved market access and regulatory certainty
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Greater capacity and competition among conformity assessment bodies
As discussions continue ahead of the EU-UK Summit on 19 May, FIS echoes the call for this agreement to be prioritised. It represents a practical step toward rebuilding frictionless trade and strengthening economic ties between the UK and EU construction sectors.
FIS will continue to work closely with CPA and other stakeholders to champion sensible solutions that benefit our members and the wider industry.
by Oscar Venus | 9 May, 2025 | Health and Safety
FIS is proud to support No Falls Week, taking place from 12–16 May 2025 — a vital campaign aimed at raising awareness of the risks associated with working at height and promoting best practices across the construction industry.
Launched in 2024, No Falls Week serves as a rallying call to reduce the number of preventable incidents caused by falls, which remain the leading cause of workplace fatalities in the UK. According to the latest data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), 40 people lost their lives to falls from height in 2022–23, accounting for 30% of all workplace deaths.
Whether you’re a contractor, supplier, or site manager, No Falls Week provides an opportunity to reflect on current practices and ensure robust safety procedures are in place. The campaign aims to equip everyone working at height with the knowledge, tools, and motivation to make safer choices — because every worker deserves to return home safely at the end of the day.
How You Can Get Involved:
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Raise Awareness: Share safety reminders and key messages with your teams throughout the week.
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Review Procedures: Use this opportunity to revisit your working at height policies and risk assessments.
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Host a Toolbox Talk: Organise a session to discuss best practices, common risks, and how to prevent falls.
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Share Your Story: Highlight what your company is doing to improve height safety — tag FIS and use #NoFallsWeek to spread the message.
FIS will be supporting the campaign by sharing resources and encouraging members to actively engage with the initiative. Let’s work together to build a safer industry, one where no fall is inevitable.
For more information and resources, visit the No Falls Week website or contact the FIS team.
by Oscar Venus | 25 Apr, 2025 | Market data
The CPA’s Economic and Construction Update provides an insightful summary of the latest economic and construction trends in the UK. The update covers key indicators such as the CPI inflation and core CPI inflation, UK construction average weekly earnings, UK construction insolvencies, UK house price index, and the UK residential market survey.
The latest weekly update includes:
- RIBA Future Trends Survey (March 2025)
- British Property Federation Build-to-Rent (2025 Q1)
The CPA’s Spring Forecasts will be published on Monday 28 April and FIS members will have exclusive access to this via our membership of CPA.
The update is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the UK construction industry, and the contents page allows readers to easily navigate to the sections that are most relevant to their interests.
In addition to this update, the CPA also publishes Construction Forecasts twice a year. Members can download these forecasts from the FIS website here.
by Oscar Venus | 25 Apr, 2025 | Market data
We’re sharing a research-led initiative (led by Diane Tocco, a member of our Organisational Excellence Working Group) that explores how manufacturers manage and maintain their BIM objects—focusing on the accuracy, consistency, and structure of the data they contain. The aim is to identify where current industry practices succeed or fall short, and how technology—particularly automation and AI—can help improve data quality across the supply chain. This short survey is aimed at manufacturers whose products are used in commercial building projects—including architectural, MEP, and FF&E components—and who already have Revit Families for at least one fixed product range. By contributing, you’ll be helping shape a more consistent and efficient approach to BIM object creation and data compliance.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HTBFSTH
As a thank you, all participants will be entered into a prize draw to win a Bose SoundLink Flex Portable Speaker (2nd Gen) (RRP £149.95) Whether you’re already producing BIM content or just starting to explore it, your insight is valuable. Thank you for taking part. Diane will be sharing the results with our Working Group in support of our work.
by Oscar Venus | 24 Apr, 2025 | Contractual and Legal
Working with renowned, and self-proclaimed recovering, construction lawyer Sarah Fox, FIS is running an interactive workshop on Wednesday 7th May, 1.30pm – 3.30pm with the aim of creating a simple sub-contract built on the 500 words principle. Sarah has spent 10 years putting her idea into practice and drafting UK construction contracts starting with just 500 words. This work very much aligns to FIS Responsible No Campaign and our wider work on improving contractual practice and procurement in the sector.
At the heart of her work is a simple idea – simplification works. When you streamline deals and clarify terms you’ll save time, improve relationships, and avoid conflict.
The workshop will be held online, is limited to 12 people and we will be using existing (more traditional) Standard Terms created through FIS as the base and the principles of the Conflict Avoidance Process and set down the in the “Best Practice Guide: Improving Management of Building Contracts” to support the process (both available via our legal and contractual toolkit here). We will also be using an Artificial Intelligence Tool, Genie AI, to support the process and help understand and assess the potential of new technology in the process.
If you want a bit more background on the 500 Words Principles, Sarah’s website is here 500 Words and she did a cracking Podcast here.
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