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Are electricians’ jobs easier than plumbers’? How much should you really charge per day? And is being self-employed in the trades still worth it in 2026?

In this episode of Off The Job Podcast, the lads are joined by Ben from Toolbox Talks for a no-filter conversation covering domestic vs commercial electrics, apprentice life, EICRs, fuse board pricing, repeat customers, and the realities of running a trade business for over 20 years.

Topics covered in this episode:

• Electrician vs plumber – which trade is harder?
• Commercial vs domestic electrics explained
• How much should electricians charge per day?
• EICR pricing vs fuse board replacement costs
• The truth about repeat customers in the trades
• Apprenticeships in 2026 – are we too soft now?
• Self-employed vs employed: pros, cons & earning potential
• Why pricing consistency is one of the biggest trade debates

Ben shares his 22+ years of experience as a self-employed electrician, from DC power across Europe to domestic rewires and fault finding, plus what most sparks get wrong about pricing and customer loyalty.

If you're an electrician, plumber, apprentice, or tradesperson thinking about going self-employed, this episode is packed with honest insight, real numbers, and proper trade talk.

📣 Sponsored by Flexigas – the flexible gas pipe specialists: https://flexigas.com/
💥 Powered by Ridgeline – seamless copper tubes built for the trade: https://ridgelinetubes.com/

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⚠️ Warning: Contains adult humour and strong language. Tradesmen banter ahead.

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