According to a new study, plumbing is the most required trade, with 70% of British homeowners saying they would always leave plumbing tasks to the professionals. The survey of 1000 UK homeowners undertaken on behalf of plastic sheeting specialist Plastic Sheets Shop also reveals that over half (53%) of respondents are not confident carrying out more complex plumbing tasks, such as installing new plumbing fixtures, including sinks, dishwashers, and toilets.
Additionally, a third (34%) are not confident carrying out minor plumbing work, such as fixing leaky taps or blocked drains, while two in five (40%) regret attempting plumbing tasks themselves instead of hiring a professional.
Interestingly, when comparing younger generation vs. older generation, almost a quarter (24%) of 18 to 25-year-olds are confident to give minor plumbing tasks a go, compared to just 16% of those aged 45 and over. Furthermore, over a third (36%) of 18 to 25-year-olds are confident doing major plumbing tasks as opposed to only 14% of those aged above 45.
Of those surveyed, 31% seek the help of trade professionals because they lack confidence in their ability to complete a task, while an additional 37% say they would rather have the job done properly than attempt it themselves.
“Our survey results show that 40% of British homeowners have attempted more DIY and home improvement projects during lockdown and a further 35% have become more confident in this area,” says Jonathan Opdam, Managing Director of Plastic Sheets Shop. “But despite this, most homeowners still need the help and expertise of professional tradespeople – especially when it comes to plumbing.”
“Hopefully, this research comes as positive news for the plumbing industry while providing some useful insight on the confidence and ability levels of homeowners across the age groups,” he concludes.
To view the full survey results, visit: www.plasticsheetsshop.co.uk/diy-survey
