Have your say: The UK’s largest SME housebuilder survey returns for 2026

At a time of continued economic and geopolitical uncertainty, this year’s survey provides an important opportunity for SME housebuilders to share their experiences, challenges, and outlook for the year ahead. The findings will play a vital role in shaping our upcoming State of Play 2026 report, with insights historically presented at Parliamentary level to inform policymakers and drive change across the sector.

Why your voice matters

SME housebuilders play a critical role in delivering much-needed housing across the UK, yet many continue to face mounting pressures, from viability constraints to planning delays and rising costs.

This year’s survey launches at a particularly challenging moment. Recent geopolitical developments have contributed to inflationary pressures, pushing up energy and material costs and placing further strain on project viability. At the same time, higher mortgage rates are impacting buyer affordability and demand for new homes.

The survey focuses on the most pressing issues currently affecting SME housebuilders, including:

• Viability and market conditions
• Supply chain pressures
• Land supply and planning
• Business sentiment
• Political awareness of the challenges facing SME housebuilders
   

Close Brothers Property Finance CEO Phil Hooper commented:

“There’s no doubt that SME housebuilders are continuing to navigate a challenging environment, with a slower sales market alongside ongoing geopolitical and inflationary pressures. However, this is a sector that has demonstrated resilience time and again, and as a business we have supported our clients through multiple economic cycles and downturns. 

We’re proud to be advocating on behalf of SMEs, helping to ensure their voice is heard. The insights gathered through this survey are shared with policymakers at the highest levels, so we would encourage SME housebuilders to take part and make their voices heard.”

Neil Jefferson, Chief Executive of the Home Builders Federation, added:

“SME housebuilders have a vital role to play in meeting the UK’s housing needs, but many continue to face significant barriers. The State of Play survey is a critical opportunity for developers to highlight these challenges and help shape the policy environment needed to support growth across the sector.”

Trevor Smith, National Housing Development Manager at VELUX, said:

“SME housebuilders are fundamental to delivering high-quality, sustainable homes, but current market conditions are making investment and innovation increasingly difficult. This survey gives builders the opportunity to highlight the realities they face and influence the support the sector needs.”

The survey takes just 7 minutes to complete and will close on 30 June 2026.

👉 Complete the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9T59VFB

By sharing your experience, you are helping to ensure the challenges and opportunities facing SME housebuilders are clearly understood, supporting meaningful change across the industry.