Modern methods of construction (MMC)

Pods are another modular technique, often used for bathrooms and kitchens. Pods are essentially ready-made rooms, pre-installed with fixtures, fittings and services. Once in situ, they only require basic connections to give a finished result. Pods frequently feature in the construction of hotels, student accommodation and other projects where consistency and cost are prioritised.

However, this perception of ease of use is one reason that pods are a common area of loss. When connecting services, such as plumbing, contractors often choose to do it themselves, and make simple mistakes that a specialist tradesman would not.

Repairing pre-fabricated, component parts in pods can also be incredibly difficult, or even impossible. Sometimes, the only option is to remove the entire pod and install a new one or replace it with more conventional but bespoke fittings incurring extra costs.

'People often think that they can avoid the cost of skilled labour, but you still need somebody who knows what they are doing when connecting them,' says Andy Penny. 'For example, forgetting to fit supports underneath waste pipes is a simple, but common, mistake. [...] While they are quicker and cheaper during construction, in terms of longevity and what they cost to repair if there is an accident, some MMC can prove more expensive in the long-run.'