UK locations most in demand of tradespeople revealed
The ongoing shortage of tradespeople in the UK is all too familiar. Yet a recent survey by Markel Direct, the specialist insurer of tradespeople, has unveiled the full extent of the issue.
The study established that 46% of UK homeowners struggled to hire a tradesperson for their projects or repairs. The principal reasons cited include: ‘no availability’ by 46% of respondents and ‘shortage of specific trade in the area’ by 34%. The study also investigated which UK locations are experiencing the most shortage of tradespeople. It reveals that out of 46 cities analysed, 19 did not have enough tradespeople to meet the search demand of the residents.
According to collected data, Norwich had the most trade shortages compared to searches per 10,000 residents. It found shortages in nine trades, including bricklayers, carpenters and electricians.
Peterborough, Swansea and York were all found to have a shortage of eight trades, each city in demand for more plumbers, carpenters and carpet fitters. Plymouth had a shortage of seven out of the thirteen trades.
In 15 out of 46 cities analysed, data revealed that the ‘handyman/person’, the general factotum of the tradespeople, is in short supply.
Plumbers were second, accounting for a shortage in 12 cities out of 46. On the other hand, plumbers were the most sought-after trade nationally. Searches of ‘plumber’ and ‘plumber near me’ reveal the highest monthly search volume above other trades in 44 out of 46 cities.
Bricklayers and carpenters are joint third. Seven cities lack businesses in the area to meet the residents’ demand, although this is a recurring problem in other cities analysed.
Number of UK cities with a shortage of skilled trades
| Trade | Cities with a shortage of trade |
| Handyman/person | 15 |
| Plumber | 12 |
| Bricklayer | 7 |
| Carpenter | 7 |
| Carpet fitter | 6 |
| Electrician | 5 |
| Plasterer | 4 |
| Joiner | 3 |
| Painter and decorator | 3 |
| Landscaper | 2 |
| Tiler | 2 |
| Builder | 1 |
| Roofer | 0 |
Furthermore, the study explored the most common DIY disasters handled by homeowners, which resulted in them hiring a tradesperson. Here is the list: plumbing repairs and maintenance are first; painting and decorating are second; and tree removal is third.
Rob Rees, Divisional Director at Markel Direct, comments, ‘’Whilst it can be tempting to attempt repairs or DIY tasks yourself, the risk of getting something wrong could result in only more problems to fix. Hiring an accredited and insured tradesperson with years of experience will ensure the job is done to a high standard and, most importantly, safely.’’
