Plumbing tops list of most in demand trades in Mayo

Plumbers are in greater demand than any other trade in Mayo, with around 720 searches for plumbing services recorded every month, according to new research.

The figures come from field-service management software company Fieldmotion, which analysed three years of average monthly Google search data to identify the trades and services most sought after across Ireland.

The research examined searches for terms including “plumber near me”, “emergency electrician”, “pest control Mayo” and “solar panel installation”, grouping them into nine different trade categories.

In Mayo, plumbing topped the rankings with an average of 720 searches per month, followed by electricians on 590 and pest control on 440.

When adjusted for population, Mayo records about 522 plumbing-related searches per 100,000 people, placing it among counties with the highest demand.

The figures also highlight the broad demand for skilled trades across the county, rather than one service dominating the market.

In total, Mayo generates approximately 2,610 trade-related searches every month across the categories examined.

Pest control, which ranked third in Mayo, is also among the fastest-growing trades nationally.

Industry experts have linked the increase in demand for pest-control services to Ireland’s changing climate. Milder winters mean fewer rats and mice die off, allowing populations to breed earlier and in greater numbers. Warmer springs can also bring wasps out sooner, while periods of heavy rainfall can drive rodents indoors.

The combination of these factors has extended the pest-control season, creating demand for services over a greater part of the year.

Jerome Finnegan, Managing Director at Fieldmotion, said the search figures reflect the challenges facing both customers and tradespeople.

“Behind every one of these searches is a homeowner or business trying to find a good tradesperson, often in a hurry,” he said.

“Demand for skilled trades is rising fast, but there simply aren't enough people to meet it. For the plumbers, electricians and pest controllers answering the phone, keeping up with that demand is the real challenge.”

He further stated that the figures also highlighted the career opportunities available through the trades.

“With another Leaving Cert class weighing up their options, these numbers are a reminder that the trades offer great career opportunities, with demand that isn't going anywhere,” he said.

“An apprenticeship in plumbing, electrical or another trade can be a smart step for anyone willing to take it on.”