The construction industry in the UK has always been dynamic, but in 2025, general contractors are facing more pressure than ever. From tightening regulations to rising costs and workforce shortages, the demands are intensifying. To stay competitive and profitable, contractors are turning to digital solutions. Platforms like PlanRadar, a leading software for construction, are helping teams overcome today’s biggest challenges with greater speed, efficiency, and transparency.
In this article, we explore the major challenges facing general contractors – and how construction technology can transform the way they work.
1. Stricter Compliance and Regulations
The Building Safety Act and evolving environmental standards are raising the bar for compliance. Contractors must now provide detailed, tamper-proof documentation to prove that every step of construction meets strict legal and safety standards.
How PlanRadar helps:
With construction management software like PlanRadar, contractors can create a digital audit trail of inspections, reports, and communications. Every action is timestamped and securely stored, making compliance easy to prove and reducing the risk of costly penalties.
2. Labour Shortages and Skills Gaps
In 2025, skilled labour remains in short supply. This challenge impacts project timelines, quality, and safety.
How PlanRadar helps:
By digitising tasks like snagging, quality assurance, and site inspections, PlanRadar streamlines communication and simplifies processes. With intuitive mobile apps, even new team members can get up to speed faster, reducing the impact of skills shortages.
3. Rising Material Costs and Tight Margins
Inflation and supply chain issues continue to drive up material costs. General contractors are under pressure to deliver high-quality projects while protecting slim profit margins.
How PlanRadar helps:
Real-time project visibility enables faster decision-making. By using software for construction project management like PlanRadar, contractors can monitor progress, track budgets, and avoid costly delays or rework through proactive site management.
4. Fragmented Communication Across Teams
Large construction projects often involve multiple subcontractors, suppliers, and consultants. Without a central communication platform, misunderstandings and errors can quickly escalate.
How PlanRadar helps:
PlanRadar centralises project communication. Drawings, tasks, reports, and messages are all accessible in one place, ensuring that everyone – from site managers to subcontractors – is working from the same information. This reduces mistakes and boosts collaboration.
5. Demand for Greater Sustainability
Clients and regulators are increasingly demanding greener, more sustainable construction practices. Contractors must find ways to demonstrate their sustainability efforts clearly.
How PlanRadar helps:
PlanRadar’s platform supports better resource planning, documentation of sustainable practices, and reporting. Contractors can easily evidence the use of sustainable materials, energy-efficient methods, and environmental compliance across every project.
Why Now Is the Time to Invest in Construction Software
The challenges facing UK general contractors are significant – but so are the opportunities. Those who embrace construction management software can not only protect themselves against today’s risks but also position their businesses for future growth.
PlanRadar is trusted by contractors across the UK and Europe to manage projects more efficiently, deliver higher quality work, and stay ahead of industry changes. Whether you need better documentation, clearer communication, or faster decision-making, PlanRadar’s software for construction can help you build better, smarter, and safer.
Ready to future-proof your projects?
Book a demo and find out how PlanRadar can streamline your construction processes.
