THE number of small builders worried about the speed of regulatory change and drive for sustainability doubled during the final quarter of 2010, says a report.

Figures from the National House Building Council showed that 60% of small builders felt that regulatory change surrounding new homes and sustainability was happening too quickly. That compares with just 32% in the previous quarter.

Following a period of Government spending cuts, 44% of small builders also claimed to have no idea when the market will recover enough to have a positive effect on them and their business.

Imtiaz Farookhi, NHBC chief executive, said: “Whether fuelled by a growing concern about the future of the market or as a separate worry, small builders at the end of 2010 were clearly finding it hard to keep up with regulatory changes relating to the future of sustainable homes.

“As we enter 2011, it is important that small builders are offered increased information on changes that will affect their businesses.”