Plumbing Industry Trends for 2025 and 2026: What to Expect and How to Prepare

As plumbing industry trends continue to evolve, the next two years are full of opportunities for those keeping a close eye on what’s ahead. Whether you already own a plumbing business or are considering getting into the field, understanding the plumbing industry outlook is essential to staying competitive and future-focused.

To get insight into where the industry is headed, we caught up with Joseph Wade, VP of Operations for Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, to discuss the trends, drivers, challenges, and innovations shaping the plumbing world in 2025 and beyond.

Q&A with Joseph Wade, VP of Operations for Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

Q: What are the biggest plumbing industry trends you’re seeing for 2025 and 2026?

A: We’re seeing major growth in demand for trenchless sewer repair technologies, whole-home water filtration, leak detection, and smart plumbing systems. Customers want clean water, energy-efficient solutions, and minimal disruption to their homes – which aligns perfectly with our evolving service offerings.

Q: What factors are driving growth in the plumbing industry?

A: Aging infrastructure, rising water quality concerns, and increasing homeowner investment in home upgrades are all key drivers. In addition, labor shortages in skilled trades create a significant opportunity for well-supported franchise operators to lead the market.

Q: How does Benjamin Franklin Plumbing help franchise owners capitalize on plumbing industry trends?

A: We offer specialized training, marketing support, and access to leading-edge tools through our SureStart program, BuyMax vendor partnerships, and dedicated trenchless and filtration initiatives. We ensure our franchisees are not only aware of trends – but fully equipped to profit from them.

Q: What challenges do you see in the plumbing industry, and how does being part of a franchise help owners prepare for them?

A: Labor shortages, rising material costs, and increasing competition are real challenges. As a franchise, we help owners overcome these through recruitment tools, negotiated pricing, business coaching, and a peer network that independent shops simply don’t have.

Q: Can you share any recent innovations or upcoming programs that set Benjamin Franklin Plumbing apart?

A: We’ve recently expanded our CIPP trenchless training and introduced water filtration certification tracks. We’re also launching enhanced CRM through ServiceTitan and call conversion vendor tools to help owners increase efficiency and capture more revenue per opportunity.

Q: What are your expectations for the brand’s growth over the next few years?

A: We’re projecting steady double-digit growth, especially in markets where demand for drain solutions, water quality upgrades, safety systems and efficient home service is surging. Our focus is on strategic expansion and franchisee profitability.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a Benjamin Franklin Plumbing franchise in 2025 or 2026?

A: Do your research – and when you do, you’ll see our model is built for long-term success. If you’re ready to lead, scale, and serve with excellence, we have the systems, support, and brand equity to help you thrive in this next era of home services.

What These Trends Mean for Future Plumbing Franchise Owners

These insights highlight just how dynamic and promising the future of plumbing can be. If you’re evaluating opportunities in the home services space, here’s what to take away:

• Technology is transforming plumbing: From smart leak detectors to trenchless pipe solutions, innovation is creating new revenue streams.
• Demand is rising: Infrastructure upgrades and growing homeowner expectations are driving the need for professional plumbing services.
• Franchising gives you an edge: Independent businesses may struggle to keep up with rising costs, workforce challenges, and shifting expectations. With Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, franchise owners gain access to the training, tools, and vendor relationships needed to stay ahead.

Get Ahead of the Curve with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

The outlook for 2025–2026 is clear: the plumbing industry is expanding and evolving. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is here to help entrepreneurs align with these plumbing industry trends through ongoing support, cutting-edge training, and strategic resources that position them for long-term success.

Ready to explore the opportunity? Contact us today to learn more about franchising with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and how you can lead the way in a growing, future-focused industry.