84% of tradespeople said they had never undertaken any training in smart home technology, according to a recent poll carried out by IronmongeryDirect
Conducted in the lead up to Smart Home Week (21- 27 May) the poll revealed that despite the rise in popularity of smart home products, many tradespeople are still unprepared for the growing customer demand.
Nearly 30% of UK homeowners now own at least one smart home product. This increase is reaffirmed by IronmongeryDirect expecting sales of smart technology to more than double this year.
Only one in ten tradespeople said they felt “very confident” when it comes to offering guidance on smart products, including products such as smart cameras, smart alarms and locks which can be connected to smartphones.
Now in its second year, Smart Home Week aims to raise the profile of smart home technology and to inform, educate and reassure consumers about the benefits and opportunities of living in a smart, connected way.
Wayne Lysaght-Mason, Managing Director of IronmongeryDirect, said: “Smart products are redefining the way that a property functions, and there is a clear need for tradespeople to keep abreast of the developments involving smart technology. With basic burglar alarms now enhanced to monitor, control and interact with a home or business premises from a smartphone or tablet, we are just at the beginning of this smart tech revolution.
“There is still a demand for traditional products, but these new smart alternatives should not be ignored. There are some fantastic products on the market, whether you want to specialise in security, lighting, heating or household appliances.”
Training organisations around the UK offer courses in smart technology, including the AWE Smart Home Academy in Surrey, which equips tradespeople with the skills and confidence they need to advise customers on the technology. For example, its Foundation Workshop is targeted at the less experienced residential smart technology installer and focuses on the fundamentals of custom installation.
