The information you need
to choose your trade
Bricklayer
Bricklayers construct and repair walls, partitions, chimneys, and other structures using bricks, blocks, and mortar. Their work forms the backbone of most buildings, ensuring strength, durability, and alignment to precise plans.
Did you know?
Bricklayers often work from detailed blueprints and must calculate materials accurately for each project. Many also specialise in stonework, restoration, or decorative brickwork — blending practical skill with craftsmanship to achieve visual appeal as well as strength.
Typical qualifications:
- NVQ Level 2-3 in Bricklaying
- Advanced Apprenticeship in Trowel Occupations
- CSCS Skilled Worker Card (for site work)
Electrician
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial settings. They handle wiring, lighting, sockets, fuse boards, and safety systems to keep everything running safely and efficiently.
Did you know?
Electricians do more than just wire new builds — many specialise in inspection and testing, renewable energy systems (like solar panels), or smart home technology. All electrical work in the UK must comply with Building Regulations Part P, and qualified electricians are usually registered with bodies like NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA.
Typical qualifications:
- NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation or Maintenance
- BS 7671 Wiring Regulations (18th Edition)
- Inspection & Testing (City & Guilds 2391)
- Part P Competent Person Scheme registration
General Builder
General builders oversee and carry out a wide range of construction and renovation work, from extensions and structural alterations to groundwork, roofing, and finishing. They coordinate multiple trades to bring a project together safely and efficiently.
Did you know?
Many general builders have specialist knowledge in areas like project management, heritage restoration, or eco-building methods. They often handle planning, regulations, and liaising with building inspectors — not just the physical work. Skilled builders typically manage teams of subcontractors and ensure all work meets current building standards.
Typical qualifications:
- NVQ Level 2–3 in Construction or Building Maintenance
- SMSTS / SSSTS
(Site Management or Supervision Safety) - CSCS Skilled or Gold Card
(for site work and management)
Plasterer
Plasterers prepare and finish walls and ceilings, applying materials like plaster, render, or decorative coatings to create smooth, durable surfaces. Their work is key to achieving a professional finish before painting or decorating.
Did you know?
Plasterers don’t just work indoors — many also specialise in external rendering, dry lining, or ornamental plasterwork for period properties. Precision, timing, and surface preparation are crucial to the quality of the final result.
Typical qualifications:
- NVQ Level 2–3 in Plastering or Solid Plastering
- Advanced Apprenticeship in Plastering
- CSCS Skilled Worker Card (for site work)
Roofer
Roofers install, repair, and maintain roofs using materials such as tiles, slates, metal sheets, or flat roofing membranes. Their work protects buildings from the elements and plays a key role in insulation and weatherproofing.
Did you know?
Roofers often specialise in different systems — like pitched roofing, flat roofing, or leadwork — and must understand drainage, ventilation, and insulation. Many also fit modern options such as solar panels, green roofs, and roof windows. Working safely at height is a major part of the job, requiring strict adherence to safety regulations.
Typical qualifications:
- NVQ Level 2–3 in Roofing Occupations
(Tiling, Slating, or Flat Roofing) - CSCS Skilled Worker Card (for site work)
- Working at Height & Roof Safety Certification
Carpenter / Joiner
Carpenters and joiners work with wood to construct, install, and repair structures and fittings — from door frames and flooring to staircases, roofs, and custom furniture. Joiners typically create components in workshops, while carpenters fit and assemble them on-site.
Did you know?
Many carpenters specialise in areas like kitchen fitting, heritage restoration, or bespoke furniture making. Precision and finishing are key — they often collaborate closely with builders, plumbers, and electricians to ensure everything fits perfectly.
Typical qualifications:
- NVQ Level 2–3 in Carpentry and Joinery
- Advanced Apprenticeship in Site or Bench Joinery
- CSCS Skilled Worker Card (for construction sites)
Gas Engineer
Gas engineers install, maintain, and repair gas appliances and systems, including boilers, central heating, cookers, and fires. They ensure gas systems operate safely and efficiently in homes and commercial properties.
Did you know?
Only Gas Safe registered engineers are legally permitted to work on gas systems in the UK — this replaced the old CORGI scheme. Many gas engineers also handle plumbing and heating work, such as installing boilers, radiators, and underfloor heating. Some specialise in renewable systems like air source heat pumps or hybrid setups.
Typical qualifications:
- NVQ Level 3 in Plumbing & Heating (Gas Pathway)
- ACS Gas Qualifications
(Core Domestic Gas Safety, Boilers, Fires, etc.) - Gas Safe Registration (legal requirement)
- Unvented Hot Water Systems Certificate
Painter & Decorator
Painters and decorators prepare and finish interior and exterior surfaces to enhance and protect buildings. Their work includes painting, wallpapering, staining, and applying specialist finishes to walls, ceilings, and woodwork.
Did you know?
They do much more than just paint — decorators assess surface conditions, repair damage, mix custom colours, and work with a wide range of materials including spray paints and textured coatings. Many also specialise in heritage restoration, commercial projects, or decorative finishes like murals and effects.
Typical qualifications:
- NVQ Level 2–3 in Painting & Decorating
- Advanced Apprenticeship in Decorative Finishing
- CSCS Skilled Worker Card (for site work)
Plumber
Plumbers install, repair, and maintain water and heating systems in homes and commercial buildings. They fit taps, toilets, boilers, and entire bathroom suites, ensuring water flows safely and efficiently.
Did you know?
Many plumbers hold electrical safety certificates (Part P) for work involving power and water, and some specialise in full bathroom installations or heating systems. Gas work requires additional Gas Safe registration (formerly CORGI).
Typical qualifications:
- NVQ Level 2–3 in Plumbing & Heating
- Gas Safe Registration (for gas appliances)
- Unvented Hot Water Systems Certificate
- WRAS Approved Installer
- Part P Domestic Installers VRQ Certificate
Tiler
Tilers prepare and lay tiles on floors, walls, and other surfaces in homes and commercial spaces. They work with ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, and mosaic tiles to create durable and visually appealing finishes — often in bathrooms, kitchens, and entrance areas.
Did you know?
Tilers do much more than just lay tiles — they level and waterproof surfaces, cut tiles precisely to fit complex spaces, and work closely with plumbers and decorators to achieve a seamless finish. Some specialise in wet rooms, swimming pools, or decorative mosaics.
Typical qualifications:
- NVQ Level 2–3 in Wall & Floor Tiling
- CSCS Skilled Worker Card (for site work)
- Specialist certifications for waterproofing or underfloor heating installations