The agreement is worth nearly 10% over its lifetime and includes a 3.7% increase for hourly paid, site-based operatives this year with further 3% rises to follow in October 2026 and 2027. The increases apply to the industry’s hourly grade rates and allowances.

The deal follows “quite long and challenging” talks between the union and wage negotiators from the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA).

BESA’s head of employment affairs Paula Samuels said: “Thanks to the efforts of the BESA Employment Policy Committee, the flexibility of the wider Association membership, and the constructive relationship we have with the union, we have managed to reach a fair and workable outcome for both employers and employees.

“Everyone involved in the negotiations was mindful of the additional pressures on employers during this very difficult trading period for our industry. We are grateful to our counterparts at Unite for showing consideration for employers’ concerns while, obviously, working hard to get the best possible outcome for their members.

“This agreement provides a measure of long-term security to employees while also allowing employers to plan with more confidence and continue to invest in recruitment and training for the long-term benefit of the whole sector and its clients.”