Tradesman Insurance - What is the size of the market?

Having comprehensive cover tailored to your specific needs can provide vital protection against potential claims and unexpected events. At Clear Business, we know that each trade faces unique challenges, and our goal is to help you secure the right cover for your line of work.

tradesperson checking boiler

Why Tradesman Insurance is Important

Tradesman insurance differs from public liability insurance, as it’s designed to address the specific risks trades professionals encounter. Whether you’re a plumber, electrician, or bricklayer, you’re likely to face unique situations that carry varying levels of risk. Effective insurance cover should account for factors such as the size of your team, the types of work you undertake, and the day-to-day risks of your trade.

For example, working with contractors may require a different kind of policy, including protection against claims for client damages and compensation costs. Tradesman insurance should be an affordable investment that offers real value, rather than a costly add-on. This is where Clear Business comes in to help you find the best cover for your trade.

Market Insights: Changes in Trade Volumes

1) Decline in Tradespeople and Turnover: Many trade sectors in the UK are facing significant challenges. For example, bricklayers saw a substantial drop in average turnover by 17% from £80,933 in 2022 to £67,465 in 2023. This trend reflects wider issues, as the construction sector struggles with supply chain disruptions and rising material costs, contributing to decreased revenue for many tradespeople

2) Skills Shortage and Demand: The UK construction and trade sectors are experiencing a severe skills shortage, with over 140,000 vacancies across trades like building, plumbing, and electrical work as of mid-2023. This shortage is expected to continue, especially with increasing demand for housing and infrastructure projects.

3) Growth in Specific Trades: Interestingly, certain trades have shown resilience and growth despite the challenges. Drylining, for instance, has seen a 12% increase in turnover, while demand for gas fitters rose by 11% in 2023. This indicates that while traditional trades face economic pressures, others, particularly those with specialised skills, are thriving.

Read about everything small business on our blog.