Why Plumbing Jobs Will Experience High Demand in the Near Future

When you’re just embarking on a new career, or thinking of abandoning an existing one, it’s important to think about whether your labour will actually be in demand in the future.

Certain information-based professions might appear to be in danger, thanks to the steady development of artificial intelligence. Other jobs, which involve building and maintaining things in the physical world, might appear more resilient.

Among these, there’s reason to suppose that plumbers might find their services in high demand. But why is this?

Growth in Residential and Commercial Construction Projects

The UK is experiencing a housing crisis. To tackle this, the Labour government has pledged to build 1.5 million homes over the course of this parliament. This, on top of the continuing need for commercial properties to expand and refurbish, creates work for plumbers. After all, these new buildings will all have boilers, radiators and pipework that need to be kept in good order.

The Push for Sustainable Water Systems and Energy Efficiency

Not only are lots of new buildings being thrown up, but existing ones undergoing full house renovations are also facing an unprecedented push to modernise, thanks to the Net Zero agenda. Building regulations are increasingly requiring the use of efficient heating – which means more replacement boilers and heat-pumps, and more work for those qualified to fit and maintain them.

Adoption of Modern Tools for Improved Job Efficiency

Plumbing, as a trade, has been made easier by the advent of new power tools, which can help to get jobs done more quickly, and increase productivity, and profits, all around. For example, a cordless press tool might allow a plumber to get a length of pipe fixed, even if the surrounding space is limited.

Skilled Labour Shortages and Training Opportunities

We’ve already considered the impact of demand for new housing and plumbing systems. But what might make just as big a difference is the lack of supply. According to the UK Trade Skills Index 2023, around 73,700 new plumbers will need to be recruited before 2032. Drop-out rates for new apprenticeships in construction are around 47%. All of this creates an opportunity for plumbing jobs for those willing to stick with the profession.

The Impact of Smart Home Technologies on Plumbing Services

Technological progress in plumbing isn’t just restricted to the tools that plumbers carry around with them. Smart home systems, which come with specialised controls and leak detectors, might require a different kind of professional maintenance. Plumbers who can adapt to these new technologies, and those yet to come, might find themselves at a major competitive advantage.

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.