Registrations to build new homes in the private sector fell 3% in January, the latest figures from the NHBC show.

There were 8,931 registrations, compared with 9,214  a year ago.

Altogether, however, there was a 9% rise in registrations by builders, with a jump in affordable homes providing the overall increase.

In total, there were 12,677 registrations in January, up from 11,683 last year.

Quarterly statistics show a small annual increase of 2% (37,990 to 38,611), but this overall figure included a drop in private registrations of 6% (26,668 from 28,509). Again, affordable homes accounted for the increase in the total with a leap of 26%.

NHBC chief executive Steve Wood said: “It is clear that Brexit uncertainties are affecting the private sector and this will impact the months ahead.”