THE cost-of-living crisis has meant that 33% of tradespeople can’t afford the tools they need, new research has claimed.
Conducted by ElectricalDirect, the study asked tradespeople about their outgoings on tools, maintenance, and repairs, and found that some are struggling to afford the new equipment they need.
Furthermore, 15% keep their tools for longer than they used to, and 16% are now more likely to repair their own equipment. Worryingly, 13% are even using damaged tools as they can’t afford replacements.
Across all trades, workers spend £1,110 on tools each year. The amount spent on such costs varies significantly by trade. Caretakers and maintenance workers spend the most (£1,753 per year), followed by electricians (£1,546) and plasterers (£1,502).
| # | Trade | Average annual spend on tools |
| 1 | Caretaker/maintenance | £1,753 |
| 2 | Electrician | £1,546 |
| 3 | Plasterer | £1,502 |
| 4 | Builder | £1,318 |
| 5 | Joiner | £1,247 |
| 6 | Roofer | £1,212 |
| 7 | Building Surveyor | £1,022 |
| 8 | Bricklayer | £964 |
| 9 | Landscaper | £948 |
| 10 | Carpenter | £804 |
| 11 | Plumber | £769 |
| 12 | Painter Decorator | £755 |
| 13 | Locksmith | £608 |
| 14 | Window Fabricator | £514 |
| 15 | Scaffolder | £367 |
Almost a quarter of these costs (22%) are spent on maintenance and repairs (£246), but the research suggests that an increasing number of tradespeople are tackling these jobs themselves to reduce outgoings.
Compared to before the cost-of-living crisis, around one in six (16%) are now more likely to repair their own tools, rather than paying to get them fixed. Scaffolders are most likely to fix their own kit, with a third (33%) doing it themselves.
Other cost cutting measures include reducing usage of power tools to lower fuel costs (30%), and buying second-hand equipment instead of new (42%).
Dominick Sandford, MD at ElectricalDirect, said, “The cost-of-living crisis has affected tradespeople in many ways, and workers have had to adjust long-standing habits in order to reduce bills.
“However, it’s important that people don’t take any potentially dangerous risks, and using damaged or partially repaired tools can lead to major problems. There are many far safer ways to cut day-to-day outgoings, and that’s why we’ve partnered with experts to share practical advice.”
ElectricalDirect has produced a guide on how tradespeople can reduce business costs. To read it, click here.
