End-of-Year Maintenance Jobs Keeping Tradies Busy

December might be the season for holidays, but for many tradies, it’s also one of the busiest times of the year. As homeowners prepare for guests, summer weather, and festive gatherings, a wave of end-of-year maintenance jobs keeps tradies booked solid. From garden clean-ups to electrical repairs, everyone’s trying to tick off their to-do list before the new year begins.

Here’s a look at which trades are most in demand in December—based on ServiceSeeking's 2024 data—and why this time of year can be one of the most rewarding for tradies.

1. Gardeners

As backyards become the heart of barbecues and family get-togethers, gardeners are in high demand. Many homeowners book professionals for mowing, pruning, and landscaping to make outdoor areas look fresh and party-ready. It’s also the ideal time for clients to install new turf, set up irrigation systems, or revive plants after a long winter. Gardeners often find December to be a month of steady work as everyone wants their lawns looking sharp before Christmas.

2. Handymen

Loose door handles, squeaky hinges, chipped paint—December seems to highlight every little thing that needs fixing. Handymen are called in to patch up walls, repair furniture, install shelves, or help with small renovation projects before guests arrive. It’s the season of “let’s finally get that done,” making it a great opportunity for handymen to secure repeat clients who appreciate reliability and quick turnaround times.

3. Air Conditioning & Heating Technicians

The Australian summer can be unforgiving, and homeowners don’t want to find out their system isn’t working when the temperature soars. Air conditioning technicians are especially busy with servicing, cleaning filters, and installing new units before the holidays. Preventive maintenance is a big focus at this time of year, as people prepare their homes for long, hot days ahead. Tradies in this field often see a spike in emergency call-outs, too, when systems give out under pressure.

4. Cleaners

December is peak season for cleaners, thanks to end-of-lease cleaning, deep cleans before family gatherings, and general tidying up before the year ends. Offices also book commercial cleaners to prepare for the holiday break. It’s the month of fresh starts, and nothing says that better than spotless floors and gleaming windows. For cleaning professionals, it’s a prime time to secure regular clients heading into the new year.

5. Electricians

Electricians are often called in during December for lighting installations—both festive and practical. Outdoor lighting, new ceiling fans, and pool area wiring all become high priorities. Homeowners also schedule safety inspections before taking extended holidays to make sure everything is up to standard. With more electrical usage during the summer months, it’s a great time for electricians to remind clients of the importance of professional servicing.

6. Plumbers

A lot can go wrong with plumbing at the end of the year. Burst pipes, blocked drains, or faulty hot water systems don’t take a break for Christmas. Plumbers are kept busy with urgent calls, pre-holiday maintenance, and checking outdoor fixtures as homeowners spend more time outside. It’s also a key period for plumbing inspections, especially before big family gatherings or property handovers.

7. Carpenters

December is often when carpenters take on finishing touches—custom furniture, decking repairs, or kitchen upgrades. Homeowners want everything looking polished before entertaining guests, and carpentry work adds that touch of refinement. Outdoor living areas are especially popular, with clients requesting pergolas, patio extensions, and storage solutions to enjoy the summer months ahead.

8. Plasterers

After a long year of wear and tear, many households notice cracks, dents, or water damage that need fixing. Plasterers are often called in for quick wall repairs and ceiling patch-ups before a fresh coat of paint. It’s not the biggest season for renovations, but it’s the perfect time for tidy-ups that make homes look well-maintained and ready for guests.

9. Removalists

For removalists, December is a flurry of activity. Families relocating before school holidays, renters moving before lease renewals, and businesses clearing spaces for the new year all need reliable help. The pre-holiday rush makes it one of the most profitable months for removalists who can manage multiple bookings efficiently.

10. Concreters

The warm, dry weather makes December ideal for concreters. Homeowners take advantage of the conditions to finish driveways, patios, and garden paths. Commercial clients also rush to complete outdoor projects before the Christmas shutdown. For concreters, this period often involves tight deadlines, but also strong demand and solid job opportunities.

For many tradies, the year doesn’t slow down—it speeds up. The surge in end-of-year maintenance jobs means packed schedules, repeat clients, and new referrals.

If you’re a tradie looking to fill your December calendar, listing your services on ServiceSeeking.com.au can help you connect with customers searching for help right now. Thousands of Australians turn to the platform daily to find trusted tradies ready to take on jobs big and small.

Stay busy, stay booked, and finish the year strong.