NICEIC research shows generational shift in how public treat tradespeople

New research by NICEIC has found a clear generational divide in how homeowners interact with tradespeople – with younger clients far less likely to offer simple courtesies.

Just 45% of 25–34-year-olds said they would offer a tradesperson a cup of tea, compared to 81% of those aged 55 and over. Only 41% of 16–24-year-olds would allow the use of their toilet, versus 71% of older people. Casual conversation is also on the decline, with just 44% of Gen Z engaging in a chat compared to 63% of over-55s.

The findings come at a time when mental health remains a major concern across the trades, with 82% of workers reporting stress, anxiety or poor mental health linked to their job.

Paul Collins, Technical Director at NICEIC, comments: “There’s a clear generational divide in how people interact with tradespeople. Young people are less likely to offer up a cup of tea, let them use their toilet, and strike up a casual conversation. This could mean friendly gestures become a thing of the past.”

Danny Mouskovias, Learning and Wellbeing Manager at NICEIC, adds: “Tradesmen often work alone for long periods of time which can be isolating. If client interactions are becoming increasingly transactional, it can increase feelings of disconnectedness.

“Seemingly small gestures, like making a cup of tea or engaging in casual conversation, can have a significant impact on the day-to-day experience of tradespeople, positively impacting their wellbeing. It also helps to break the ice for both parties, creating a more amicable and relaxed environment to get the job done.”

The findings also suggest a level of mistrust exists among homeowners and renters towards tradespeople.

Around 16% of respondents said they have or would watch tradespeople closely while they worked, a behaviour most common among those aged 25–34 (26%), but far less so for those aged 55+ (only 3%).

Additionally, some homeowners choose to monitor tradespeople using security cameras, a response most common among 25-34-year-olds (25%) and least likely among those aged 55+ (3%).