Building a new home is an exciting but also challenging task. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the home building industry has been facing unprecedented challenges that have resulted in significant delays and increased costs. In this article, we will explore the reasons why the process of home building is taking longer in South Australia in 2023.
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Home Building Industry
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the home building industry in Australia, with border closures and lockdowns leading to a shortage of workers in the industry. According to the Home Industry Association (HIA), acute shortages in trades like bricklaying, carpentry, and roofing have led to delays in construction projects across the country [1].
Labour Shortage
The shortage of skilled workers has been identified as the number one constraint on the home building industry in Australia in 2023. In South Australia, the closure of international borders has resulted in a shortage of bricklayers, carpenters, and roofers, which has led to delays in the construction process. Builders are finding it challenging to complete their projects on time due to the unavailability of skilled workers [1].
Competition for Workers
The home building industry has also had to compete with other industries for skilled workers, leading to cost pressures on labour. With low unemployment rates, workers have more choices, and the home building industry has to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract and retain skilled workers [2].
Increased Cost of Materials
The cost of materials used in home building has also increased significantly in 2023. The Home Industry Association has reported that the cost of timber and steel has risen by 20-30% compared to the pre-pandemic levels, further adding to the cost pressures on the home building industry [3].
Delays in Approvals and Permits
The process of obtaining approvals and permits from local councils and state authorities has also become more complicated and time-consuming due to the pandemic. Social distancing measures have slowed down the process, resulting in delays in starting the construction process [1].
Conclusion
In conclusion, the process of home building is taking longer in South Australia in 2023 due to several factors, including the shortage of skilled workers, competition for workers with other industries, increased cost of materials, and delays in obtaining approvals and permits. It is essential to work with reputable builders who can manage these challenges to ensure that your home building project is completed on time and within budget.
Comments