How will the industry change in 2022?

Material prices and labour shortages have been hot topics over the past twelve months. And with the cost of living having a huge impact across the UK, costs and demand continue to put pressure on the construction world.

Here are some of the challenges the industry had to overcome in 2021:

• 89% said their costs increased
• 84% experienced material shortages
• 83% had to increase their prices
• 62% of tradespeople had to delay or cancel jobs
• 44% experienced staff shortages

Source: Rated People

And importing materials in 2021 became almost impossible for some trades. Border closures and tax rises meant some sectors suffered more than others.

The five trades most affected by material shortages last year were:

1. Plasterer / renderer
2. Builder
3. Gardener
4. Carpenter
5. Painter & Decorator

Source: Rated People

It’s a similar story with price too. Most trades had to reassess their financial outlook and increase prices last year. As a result budgets have been affected and customers have been left no choice but to absorb higher costs.

93% of roofers said they are charging more and 77% of bathroom fitters have struggled to keep costs down.

And the trend is set continue into the next six months. Here is a list of trades most likely to increase their prices in 2022.

• Builder
• Gas / heating engineer
• Plasterer / renderer
• Carpenter
• Plumber

Source: Rated People

And the good news? If you work in the industry, it’s predicted to be a busy one. Demand is high and labour is hard to find. So take on as much work as you can manage before the bubble bursts.

The top 10 most in demand trades in 2022 are expected to be:

1. Bathroom fitter
2. Tiler
3. Roofer
4. Plumber
5. Plasterer / renderer
6. Electrician
7. Carpenter / joiner
8. Painter & decorator
9. Builder
10. Gas / heating engineer

Source: Rated People

Tradesman Talk

So what do you think? Are materials easier to come by? Are you going to raise your prices even further this year? Are you rushed off your feet trying to keep up with demand?

What about energy and fuel cost increases? Has this impacted your trade in any way?

As always, your thoughts matter so please share your opinion in the comments below.

And if you found this article useful, click the social links to share it with someone you know.

Until next time, make sure it’s Tradesman Saver.

Mark McPherson

Mark McPherson has an MA in Creative Writing and has been crafting content for over a decade. He writes for a range of niches, including the construction industry and insurance sector. Mark has worked internationally as a content writer and teacher.

All articles by Mark McPherson