Shortage of plumbers and heating engineers: the report at HFE
Video published on 23 January 2022
A report highlights how hard it is to recruit in plumbing and heating. At HFE, demand is surging, working hours are long, and apprenticeships are a concrete answer.
Finding an available, skilled plumber quickly has become a challenge for many households. A report featuring Hecker & Frères Énergie (HFE) shows what local contractors face when demand rises and candidates are scarce.
Published on 23 January 2022, the video captures a Lille-area reality: clients waiting weeks for work, a team putting in long hours, and a whole sector looking for reinforcements.
For customers: longer waiting times
In the report, a customer needs plumbing brought up to standard and waits about a month and a half to find an available company. Availability and competence matter as much as price.
Demand boosted by the context
The report links the pressure to higher demand during the health-crisis period, with more bathroom and comfort projects at home. Firms like HFE can work up to 50 hours a week and sometimes have to turn work down.
Apprenticeship as a practical lever
HFE brings in an apprentice as valuable support. The trade is physical — including heavy equipment — but rewarding. The report also notes rising apprenticeship interest in construction. See our current openings on the careers page.
And today?
Skills shortages have not disappeared. Heat pumps, air conditioning and energy renovation still need trained teams. Motivated candidates in Lille are welcome — and homeowners should plan projects early via a free quote.
Want to join the HFE team?
Check our openings or send your application. Motivated profiles are welcome.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it so hard to find a plumber or heating engineer?
Work demand remains high while too few trained candidates enter the trade. Serious firms are often fully booked, which lengthens waiting times for households.
Is HFE still hiring?
Yes, depending on the period. Check the careers page for current roles and apprenticeships in plumbing, heating, air conditioning and heat pumps.
Is an apprenticeship a good way in?
Yes. The report shows how valuable an apprentice can be on site. The work is physical but offers strong local career prospects.
Where can I watch the full report?
On YouTube: “Reportage sur une entreprise de plomberie (Hecker & Frères Energie) qui peine à recruter”, published on 23 January 2022. It is also embedded at the top of this article.
Source
Video used as the basis for this article