New building work fell by 1.7% in the month, which dragged on the 1.3% rise in repair and maintenance output, says the government data body.  

The main contributors to the fall in October were private new housing and private commercial new work, which were down by 5.2% and 1.2%, respectively.  

Building firms told the ONS that “heavy rainfall and strong winds led to delays in planned work” during the month. 

Over a broader measure of the three months to October, construction output was 0.3% lower, which saw new work fall by 2%, while repair and maintenance rose by 2.2%.  

Beard Construction finance director Fraser Johns says: “While wet and stormy conditions will certainly be a contributing factor to October’s drop in output, it’s the potential storm clouds brewing in the wider economy which is having the biggest impact on both confidence and demand.   

“There are positive indicators – inflation coming down, a hold on interest rates and the availability and pricing of supplies.    

“However, borrowing conditions still remain particularly tough, as evidenced by the continued slowdown in the housebuilding sector and the ability of clients to pull the trigger on new projects.  

“As new work dips for the month and in the three-month picture, it is not a surprise to see a rise in repair and maintenance.   

“While this can reflect the uncertain climate we find ourselves in, it is also a sign of clients actively choosing to maximise the value of existing building stock. It is also true that finance favours green schemes for lending.”