Now that lockdown restrictions have started to ease, homeowners are seizing the opportunity to look for a tradesperson to tackle various jobs in and outside the home.

According to Checkatrade search data, there has been a huge 134% increase* in searches for services since there was a let-up in lockdown measures, plus an increase of 68% in comparison to the same period last year,**  with the online trade directory seeing its busiest week in its entire history on 15th-21st June. Tuesday 16th June – the day after non-essential shops reopened – was a record day for searches.

Topping the trade list for Brits are landscapers (+214% in comparison to the same time last year) and fencing/gates (+202%) as we look to make the most of at-home holidays and staycations in our gardens this summer, with abroad getaways seemingly off the cards. Interestingly, tree surgeons (+153%) have seen the third-biggest increase in trade searches, suggesting that as Brits have been spending more time inside recently than ever before, the nation is finally getting round to tackling those long-intended projects, such as removing trees that block out the sunlight.

Checkatrade research*** during lockdown also found that 58% of DIY-ers admitted to suffering DIY disasters, with dodgy DIY costing the UK an average £206 per person, equating to a huge £10.8 billion lost nationally. But whether it’s due to botched jobs, or the public looking to build and extend their homes, bricklayers (+264%) and painter/decorators (+247%) have had a huge increase in interest.

CEO of Checkatrade, Mike Fairman, said, “Our tradespeople have shown their resilience during this period of change and uncertainty – and it’s paid off, as we see demand for their services increase again. The additional time spent at home has clearly made the nation start rethinking their homes – especially their gardens, as our data shows a huge increase in interest in outdoor services. Our tradespeople span almost 100 categories and are extensively vetted to ensure they can help homeowners achieve their dreams in a safe way for high-quality results.”