Demand for tradespeople jumps to 63% during pandemic

The data from CompareNI.com compiled the top 10 list of trade occupations for 2020 and compared them to the 12 months previous. Number one on that list was carpenter/joiner with a 66.6% increase followed by builder/bricklayer at 57.7% increase and finally a staggering 70.8% increase for those working in cleaning. Interestingly these top three positions didn’t change from 2019 to 2020.

Handyman moved up from eighth to fifth position and was the biggest overall change with a 123% increase from 2019. Followed by painter/decorator with a 122.7% increase - the only new entry to the table, in at number 10.

This spike in tradespeople bucks the currently reported trend of a 30% fall in the construction industry in Northern Ireland, relating mainly to firms who develop retail, hospitality and commercial construction.

The analysis is based on a sample of over 7,000 tradesperson insurance policies compiled from across the UK during 2019 and 2020.

CompareNI.com Founder Greg Wilson said: “With the nation in renovation mode throughout lockdown, it is not so surprising that demand for trade skills is spiking but it is great news for tradespeople and could even provide opportunities for those who have been made redundant recently. The rise in demand for cleaning staff is considerable at 70% year-on-year, and this trend may well persist even after the vaccine is rolled out as companies embrace deep cleans and more thorough hygiene practices for the eventual return to the workplace.

“I would recommend, especially if this current line of work is new to you, that you check you have a comprehensive tradesperson insurance policy or it you’ve just expanded your business and recruited several employees. Our comparison website can help you find a competitive policy that is tailored to your individual business needs.”

Although the pandemic may be the root cause for this growth in demand for tradespeople, additional research suggests trade jobs have the potential to earn significantly more than the average graduate positions, estimating a £10k difference** in salaries – and without the additional university debt.

CompareNI.com help almost a million users every year and are recommended by 97% of reviewers, covering over 60 products including niche items such as public liability insurance, income protection insurance and event insurance.

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