Do you know your worth as a tradesperson?
Posted: Friday, June 20th, 2025
Andy Cam and Dave Smith chat with plumber and heating engineer John Cruickshank, who believes tradespeople aren't pricing their work well. "This is a big issue, I don't think plumbing and heating engineers know their worth and what they should be changing in today's environment. "This is why I've been slow in taking on jobs," he says. "I know my worth. I bring confidence to a job due to years of experience and knowledge. However, I find that many fellow tradespeople want the work but are hesitant to charge a fair price." He notes that young plumbers and heating engineers who go solo often undervalue themselves. "They charge below market prices to get the work, and that is the race to the bottom. They haven't got the skill, the knowledge, or the experience, so they go cheaper and cheaper." John adds that plumbing isn't like other jobs. "We've got skills, we've got problems and a lot of other things to do. If the job is rushed and you try to earn more money in 20 hours when it should take eight hours. You are a busy fool!" To avoid being drawn to the race to the bottom, John reveals that he follows a structure. "I have a day rate that I charge when I'm subbing out work to a contractor. I also quote, according to the job, that I try to make a good profit off." He uses that extra cash to reinvest in the business, such as training, tools, and a vehicle, and also saves for a rainy day. Listen to the full podcast here.
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