FMB welcomes call for home refurbishment VAT cut

The publication of the World Wildlife Fund report, How Low, has been welcomed by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

This report has suggested a cut on the VAT rates levied on the renovation and refurbishment of existing properties.

Currently there is zero per cent VAT on new homes, but the VAT is 17.5 per cent on existing houses.

Brian Berry, the director of affairs at the FMB, commented: "I am delighted that the WWF has concluded that one of the best ways to reduce carbon emissions from UK homes is by reducing VAT on repair and maintenance work."

Mr Berry also added that reducing the VAT on refurbishment properties to five per cent would encourage home owners in the UK to make their homes more environmentally friendly.

Representing over 13,000 building companies, the FMB is the largest trade organisation in the UK building industry. It has been in operation for over 60 years, according to its website.


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