A Plumber in the UK

Before listening, check that you know the meaning of the following words: self-employed, sailor, trade supplies, be well-presented (person), basin, waste pipes, smelly and renovation.

Listen to the following interview with a plumber in the UK and find out:

• Where he works. (type of company - large/small, etc)
• Where about in the UK he works.
• Why he chose this profession.
• What type of tasks he has to do on a typical day at work.
• What personal qualities he suggests are needed by a plumber.
• Does he describe any work processes or services that he provides?
• What he likes best and least about his job.
• How he thinks this line of work will change in the future.
• Where he sees himself in 5 - 10 years' time.

After you have practised, add more dialogue for some of the following situations:

• Mrs. Johnson decides that she wants a bathtub installed instead of the shower cabinet. The plumber says this will delay the completion of the job.
• Mrs. Johnson says that she cannot be at home next week and asks the plumber if he can try and finish the job by the end of this week.
• The plumber apologises because he has not yet received the sink unit Mrs. Johnson wants, but hopes to get it by next week.