Residential vs. commercial construction – where is more work?
In the context of the labor market, construction can be divided into two main categories: residential construction and commercial construction. Both of these branches offer a wide range of professional opportunities, but they differ in requirements, demand for specialists, and employment dynamics.
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Table of contents:
Residential construction – characteristics
Residential construction involves the creation of residential spaces – single-family houses, apartments, apartment blocks and housing estates. Residential projects are carried out at the request of individuals, developers and local government units, which invest in the development of local housing infrastructure. Depending on the demand, residential construction can include both new buildings and the modernisation of existing properties.
In the context of the labour market, residential construction attracts many specialists, because it covers a wide range of skills, from bricklayers, through electricians and plumbers, to specialists in the installation of windows, roofs and heating and cooling systems. Residential projects are often less technically complex than commercial buildings, but the number of orders in this sector is usually more stable, which is conducive to employment.
Commercial construction – characteristics
Commercial construction covers a wide range of projects that aim to create spaces intended for business activities. These include, among others, office buildings, shopping malls, hotels, warehouses, production halls, as well as public utility facilities such as schools, hospitals or sports centers. Commercial construction is usually more technically complex, requires advanced technologies and modern solutions. In addition, precise planning related to mechanical, electrical and IT installations.
In the commercial construction sector, the demand for specialists is high, but these works usually require high qualifications and experience. Due to the fact that commercial projects often have a higher budget and must comply with more stringent regulations, companies prefer qualified specialists and specialists with certificates confirming their skills.
Residential vs. commercial construction – demand for employees
The residential construction market in Poland, as in many other European countries, is experiencing dynamic development. It is driven by the growing demand for apartments in large cities and developing agglomerations. The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a wave of changes that have contributed to the increase in demand for residential spaces – both for modern apartments in cities and for single-family houses in the suburbs. At the same time, government support programs for construction, such as the Mieszkanie Plus program, stimulate investment in social and affordable housing.
Employment in residential construction is therefore stable and the demand for specialists is high. Due to the fact that most residential projects are smaller in scale, employees have greater flexibility and more frequent rotation between projects. This in turn may be attractive to people who prefer diversity in work.
On the other hand, in commercial construction, the demand for specialists depends on economic development and the investment plans of companies and institutions. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of commercial projects. Especially in large cities, which attract investors from the IT, trade and logistics sectors. The increasing demand for office, warehouse and production space makes commercial construction an area where there is no shortage of work. These projects usually require long-term work in one location. This in turn may be ideal for people who prefer stability and long-term commitment.
What skills are most sought after?
- General skills. Regardless of the sector, construction workers are expected to meet requirements related to work safety, the ability to read technical drawings, and knowledge of tools and technologies used in the industry.
- Skills specific to residential construction. Skills related to interior finishing, plumbing, electrical, and heating systems are valued in residential projects. Many developers are looking for people with experience in building energy-efficient homes.
- Skills specific to commercial construction. More advanced skills are required in commercial construction. Specialists in HVAC installations, building automation systems, telecommunications solutions, and project management are often sought after. Workers with skills in new technologies such as BIM (Building Information Modeling) have additional advantages that open the way to better-paid positions.
Summary
The choice between residential and commercial construction depends on the individual preferences of the employee and their qualifications. Both sectors offer a wide range of employment opportunities. However, commercial construction often offers higher salaries and long-term projects. While residential construction guarantees greater stability and regularity of orders.
Both sectors are currently experiencing growth, but commercial construction offers greater prospects for highly qualified specialists. For those who prefer stability, continuity of orders and variety of projects, residential construction may be a better choice.