Research carried out by lighting supplier, Ultra LEDs, has discovered the cost of these materials is expected to have more than trebled in 2022. These significant supply chain issues will not only affect electrical contractors, but homeowners too.

Over a quarter (28%) of UK electricians stated that they’ve been forced to raise their prices since the start of 2022, while four in five (80 per cent) have increased their quotes in the last year.

As a result, a survey of 500 UK homeowners commissioned by UltraLEDs revealed that 1 in 10 (11%) have had to cancel home renovations as they’ve exceeded their budget due to the cost of living crisis. Big renovation jobs could be anything from rewiring following a new kitchen installation to adding an EV charging point or outside light.

The top 10 areas in the UK that are cancelling home renovations due to prices increases are:

• Midlands (19%)
• Scotland (17 %)
• North East (15%)
• North West (12%)
• London (11%)
• Wales (11%)
• Yorkshire (11%)
• South East (10%)
• South West (8%)
• East (7%)

In addition, of those willing to go ahead with their home renovations, 27% disclosed that the materials price increase has delayed projects. While 24% confessed to increasing their budget in order to have these renovations completed.

Worryingly, over one in 10 (11%) UK homeowners are also struggling to find an electrician and 7% explained they had to compromise on quality in order to complete their renovations.

According to Electrician Course 4U, the electrical industry is one of the worst affected by the skills shortage. Apprenticeship schemes are failing to drive out enough candidates to keep up with growing demand, and older contractors are retiring. Both of which have resulted in a skills gap in the market.

This means that current electrical contractors are suffering from burnout due to increased demand, while homeowners will need to wait longer for jobs to be completed due to a lack of skilled workers.

Matthew Shaw, Head of Sales at Ultra LEDs commented: “Price inflation has also seen consumer prices rise at the fastest pace in 30 years in 2022 as fuel, the housing market and household energy costs have soared.”

“These insights have highlighted how this exponential growth is putting undue pressure on electricians. It’s UK homeowners who will undoubtedly be facing higher bills for renovation or building work as electricians look to put their prices up.”

“Customers are now looking to make savings in certain areas by using things like LED strip lights, which are cheaper to run and last longer. Those who may have had to cancel their renovation are redirecting that capital in smaller projects such as gardens and DIY projects. We’re seeing a large increase in demand for outdoor LED festoon lights as these offer a much greener,  energy-efficient money-saving alternative to traditional lighting solutions.”