New research has revealed that UK plumbers spend an average of £583 on tools each year.
Due to the cost of living crisis, 23% of plumbers can’t afford the new tools they. The study, conducted by ElectricalDirect, asked tradespeople about their outgoings on tools, maintenance and repairs and found that 23% of plumbers can’t afford the new tools they need.
Furthermore, 18% keep their tools for longer than they used to, and 18% are now more likely to repair their own equipment. Worryingly, 14% 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 by trade. Caretakers and maintenance workers spend the most with £1,753 per year, followed by electricians, £1,546 a year, and plasterers, £1,502 a year.
Almost a quarter of these costs are spent on maintenance and repairs, 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, 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 33% doing it themselves.
Furthermore, 27% of tradespeople now keep their tools for longer to avoid paying for new ones, and 13% even continue using damaged tools because they can’t afford replacements.
Other cost cutting measures include reducing usage of power tools to lower fuel costs and buying second-hand equipment instead of new.
Dominick Sandford, managing director 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.”