Supply problems causing squeeze in stocks and pricing The effects of Covid-19, problems at Auckland port and the boom in house building are combining to cause myriad supply problems for trades and suppliers throughout the construction industry. From basic building materials through to flooring and fittings, materials are either becoming increasingly scarce or rising in price, or both, leading to frustration and budget blowouts for customers. Sam Dyson, who looks after sales, design and project management at tiny house builder Eco Pod Concepts, says it has become a seller’s market lately, with prices and lead times going up, as well as low and no stocks of certain products.