The Certified Builders Association says a boom in demand for new houses could exacerbate skill shortages.
Some economists predict a spike in the number of new houses needed, after the latest migration figures showed the biggest monthly gain in six years, of 2700 people during May.
The Certified Builders Association says the sooner the housing market recovers the better.
It says some builders have lost their jobs in the downturn and any major upswing could compound a skill-base shortage.
The association says it's a possibility a skills shortage could affect the quality of houses being built.
