Builders across Brighton and Hove have told customers their newly-fitted kitchens and bathrooms will have to wait because of the drought.
Most of the plastering suppliers in the area buy their plaster from one source, Leicestershire-based British Gypsum, which is having production problems.
Many said this had led to builders panic buying and the firm has not been able to meet demand.
A spokesman for the firm said: “Over the past few weeks we have experienced difficulties with new equipment installation at our plant. This has impacted on production and reduced output. The situation has been exacerbated by widespread panic buying, with the consequence that we are unable fully to meet the market demand for our building plasters.
“We apologise to all customers and users for the problems.”
Worried builders hope the problem will soon be solved.
Adrian Howard, based in Stanmer Villas, Brighton, said: “It’s been a total nightmare.
“There is no plaster in Sussex and it’s causing mayhem.
“We have ordered from a number of suppliers and they have all said the same. It has been like this for a couple of weeks.
“It means we can’t complete the jobs. It’s infuriating for customers and ourselves, as we are losing money.”
Another builder, Tony Weller, based in Eldred Avenue, Brighton, said: “It has been mayhem.
“I have tried to order some but the suppliers have completely sold out.
“It seems I can’t get any in Brighton. I could go out of the county to get it but that would cost me half a day’s work.”
One of the main suppliers in Sussex, Covers, said nothing could be done.
Manager Peter Mercer said: “British Gypsum has told us there are major production problems.
“It’s pretty unusual to have a plaster drought and I’m sure it will sort itself out soon enough.”
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