Clearview South Feb 2013 - Issue 135 | Page 7

DOORS&WINDOWS VAT cut tops New Year’s wish-list for building firms A VAT cut for housing renovation and repair work is at the top of the New Year’s wish-list for most small and medium-sized construction companies. In a major survey of members of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), the largest trade association in the UK construction industry, nearly three quarters said VAT was an issue they wanted the Government to address. Building regulations, planning and finance were also listed as priority issues by over half the businesses surveyed. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “It comes as no surprise that construction SMEs want this targeted reduction in VAT. Most are still struggling with falling workloads and competition from the informal economy. This is about creating a level playing field and reducing the number of individuals and businesses that rely on avoiding VAT. “It is also about boosting growth in the economy by making it easier for homeowners and landlords to commission the work they need doing on their properties. Independent research has shown that the Government will quickly make up the initial loss of tax revenue owing to the growth in demand for housing repair and maintenance work.” Berry continued: “This is why the FMB has responded to an EU consultation on reduced VAT rates urging European lawmakers to keep the option open for the UK Government to cut VAT on housing repair work. The EU must focus on helping Europe’s economy to grow and not take away existing flexibilities in the tax system. “Reduced VAT rates would also encourage more people to introduce measures in their homes to reduce household energy bills and cut CO2 emissions. Such measures already amount to a quarter of all work undertaken in the UK housing repair and improvement market. “Many European states, including the UK, levy a reduced rate of VAT on the energy consumers use, so it would be perverse for the EU to forbid its member states to discount the rate of VAT on work to help save energy, such as installing energy efficient glazing, new boilers or insulation.” DO YOU WANT A COMPLETE CONSERVATORY? • Roofs fabricated and delivered within 5-7 days • On-site survey assistance • Open 8am-5pm, Mon to Fri for factory visits • Extensive range of ceiling fans • Fitter friendly roof • Complete package available – frames, glass, roofs, fans, heating and car ports Radiance Glass Thanks to the latest modern technology, Radiance Performance Glass has been specifically developed for use in conservatories to ensure all year round enjoyment. There are two types of glass that bear the Radiance name, Radiance Tints and for the ultimate in performance, Radiance Activ. Homeowners throughout the UK are already beginning to enjoy the benefits of Radiance. Look at our website and you’ll discover why… [email protected]. A reliable manufacturer with scheduled weekly deliveries THEN IT’S TIME TO CHANGE YOUR SUPPLIER! For over 12 years The Conservatory Factory has been fabricating and supplying conservatory roofs. Fabricators of the Global Roof System. We are also able to offer other roofing systems available in the market place. Orangery Roof A roof you can rely on By choosing our orangery system you are buying a stylish enhancement of Global, the UK’s No. 1 conservatory roofing system. Decorative gutter fascias provide external ‘cornice’ detailing, whilst internal pelmet pods create an easy and practical former for plastering, prior to the fitting of downlighters or audio speakers. With a choice of ‘raised line’ or ‘low line’ solutions for internal aesthetics, Global Summer delivers all the benefits of the proven Global conservatory roof with added orangery style! Global roof has been passed by the Board of Agrement (BBA) to ensure that it can stand up to the most extreme weather conditions. The Conservatory Factory Ltd Email enquries: [email protected] The Workshop (opposite Vauxhall Garage), Manor Road, Frome BA11 4BN Tel: 01373 473900 Fax: 01373 474500 To read more, visit www.clearview-uk.com FEB 2013 7