It’s not just the cost of buying a house or apartment that has skyrocketed, mainly due to the increase in construction materials, but also related to repairs, the cost required for professional services such as plumbers and electricians, and for furnishing and purchasing household appliances.
Data gathered by Phileleftheros shows that inflation is not only affecting food items but also a range of services necessary for a household’s functioning.
The consumer price index dropped to 1.2% in March 2024 from 1.8% in February and 5.8% in March 2023.
Comparing with March 2020, when the consumer price index was at 0.1%—just above the deflation threshold and there was no inflation in the market—these price increases in services are alarming.
Statistics from the Statistical Service indicate that from March 2020 to March 2024, plumbing services increased by 30.3%, electricians by 50.2%, painting services by 38.4%, and carpentry by 45.1%.
Regular home maintenance products saw a rise of 20.8% over the four-year period, and heating system services increased by 13.8%.
However, there are other services connected to housing.
For example, waste collection costs rose by 6.3% over the four-year period from March 2020 to March 2024, drainage services by 11.5%, and maintenance charges in apartment buildings increased by 3.1%.
Beyond furnishings, there are household appliances to consider.
According to Statistical Service data, the household furniture price index increased by 10.2% over the four years.
The lighting equipment price index rose by 11.9% in June, while carpets and floor coverings saw a decrease of 3.7%.
But besides furnishings, there are household appliances. The price index for refrigerators, freezers, and fridge-freezers increased by 5.9%, washing machines and dryers by 3.8%, kitchen appliances by 12.1%, and heaters and air conditioners by 6.3%.
Prices for small electrical appliances rose by 5.6% over the four years, food processing appliances by 6.4%, while coffee machines, tea makers, and similar devices saw an increase of 16.3%. Other items of interest include ironing appliances with a 1.2% increase over the period, toasters and grills by 3.1%, and household appliance repairs up by 11.1%.
The price index for household and garden tools increased by 7%, large tools and equipment rose by 7.4%, and non-motorised small tools by 11.8%.
Beyond household items or services, there are those related to leisure. The price of passenger air transport increased by 10.6% over the four years, bus and coach transport by 21.7%, and taxi and rental vehicle transport by 15.1%.
Even car-related prices were not unaffected. From March 2020 to March 2024, the prices for car maintenance and repair increased by 17.9%, while garage and parking space rentals rose by 12.2%.
