Work-Life Balance Tips for International Plumbers

Introduction

Relocating from Global to Romania to work as a professional plumber can be both exciting and demanding. The attraction is clear: a growing construction sector, access to the European Union market, competitive salaries against a lower cost of living, and the chance to advance your craft on complex residential and industrial projects. Yet the move also comes with stressors most tradespeople underestimate: navigating visa processes, adapting to new standards and materials, learning local work culture, and balancing long shifts with family life and personal wellbeing.

This guide is a practical, mental-health-first roadmap specifically for plumbers. It blends work-life balance strategies with the technical, legal, and cultural realities of working in Romania. You will find step-by-step relocation advice, an overview of the job market, insight into Romanian construction standards and certifications (including ISCIR and EU-aligned requirements), realistic salary and cost-of-living comparisons, and proven techniques to prevent burnout while still maximizing earnings.

If you are a pipefitter, gas installer, or sanitary systems specialist considering Romania, read on. The goal is not only to help you land work, but to help you thrive.

Why Romania?

EU membership and market access

Romania is a member of the European Union, which means EU-aligned standards, access to regional projects, and integration with supply chains spanning Central and Western Europe. Skilled tradespeople can leverage Romania as a hub for future opportunities across the bloc.

Lower cost of living with competitive earnings

Romania offers a favorable ratio between income potential and living costs. In cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi, you will find varied housing markets and affordable daily expenses that allow you to save, invest, or send remittances without sacrificing quality of life.

Growing demand for plumbers

Multiple forces are boosting demand for qualified plumbers:

New build residential projects and commercial office spaces
An ongoing renovation and retrofitting boom
Industrial installations in automotive, electronics, logistics, and food processing
Heating system upgrades to more efficient solutions (condensing gas boilers, heat pumps, underfloor heating, and better insulation)
EU-backed infrastructure and energy-efficiency programs

Quality of life and mental wellbeing

Romanian cities offer a mix of green parks, accessible healthcare, and a slower pace outside peak project timelines. The local culture values family time, weekends away in the mountains or by the Black Sea, and shared meals. This environment can support better work-life balance when combined with deliberate planning.

Job Market Overview

Who employs plumbers in Romania

Construction companies delivering residential and commercial projects
Maintenance contractors handling office parks, shopping centers, and industrial sites
Facility management firms serving hospitals, hotels, and universities
Utilities and district heating companies
Specialized installation firms for HVAC, sanitary, and fire safety systems
EPC contractors for industrial plants and logistics centers

Examples of cities with strong demand:

Bucharest: The largest concentration of commercial and residential projects, frequent retrofits, and complex building services.
Cluj-Napoca: Tech-driven growth, residential developments, and industrial activity in the wider county.
Timisoara: Manufacturing and logistics, cross-border supply chains, and steady urban development.
Iasi: University expansion, healthcare facilities, and residential growth.

Typical scopes of work

Sanitary installations: cold and hot water distribution, wastewater and venting, fixture connections
Heating systems: radiators, underfloor heating, circulation pumps, balancing, expansion vessels
Gas fitting: residential and commercial gas lines, appliance connections, leak testing and safety checks
Pipe fitting in industrial contexts: stainless steel, carbon steel, PPR, PEX, copper, compression fittings, welding interfaces with other trades
Renovations and retrofits: replacing aging pipelines, installing efficient fixtures, integrating smart controls

Work patterns

Project-based employment: fixed-term assignments, often with overtime during critical phases
Long-term maintenance roles: more predictable schedules and routines
Self-employed or subcontracting for multiple clients: higher control of workload but more responsibility for administration, taxes, and compliance

Legal Requirements

Work authorization for Global citizens (non-EU)

If you are not an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you typically need an employer-sponsored work permit followed by a long-stay employment visa and then a residence permit in Romania.

Employer obtains a work authorization (Aviz de Angajare):

The Romanian employer applies with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) for your work authorization.
They must show the role cannot be filled readily from the local market and that your qualifications match the job.
Processing can take several weeks. Check annual quotas for non-EU workers.

You apply for the long-stay employment visa (D/AM):

After the work authorization is issued, you apply for a D/AM visa at the Romanian consulate in your country of residence.
Typical documents: valid passport, work authorization, employment contract or job offer, proof of accommodation, medical insurance valid for the visa period, clean criminal record, and recent photos. Documents may require official translations and sometimes apostille/legalization.

Enter Romania and apply for the residence permit (single permit):

Within the visa validity period after entry, apply at IGI for your residence permit, which grants you the right to stay and work. Renew as required.

Dependents and family reunification:

After you have legal residence, you may apply for family reunification for your spouse and children under certain conditions.

Always verify current rules on the official immigration site or with a Romanian consulate because policy updates can affect timelines and documentation.

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

If you are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you do not need a work permit, but you should register your residence in Romania if staying longer than 3 months. You can work under local employment contracts or set up as self-employed.

Health and safety compliance

Occupational health and safety (SSM) and fire prevention (PSI): Mandatory training on-site. Employers typically provide induction, but keep your certificates and participate actively.
Medical exams: Pre-employment medical checks are common and required for certain roles.
Insurance: Ensure you are covered by health insurance. Employees are usually enrolled in the national health system through social contributions. Self-employed workers must enroll and contribute accordingly.

Certification & License Recognition

EU plumbing certifications and Romanian alignment

Romania aligns with EU standards for building services installations. Many site requirements refer to EN (European Norms) and their Romanian adoption (SR EN). If you hold EU-recognized credentials, Romanian employers are more likely to accept them, though they may still ask for local validations.

Romanian trade certification (calificare)

If your home-country qualifications are not automatically recognized, you can pursue recognition via the National Authority for Qualifications (ANC). They assess vocational qualifications and can issue a certificate of equivalence or advise on additional training.
Alternatively, authorized assessment centers may issue a 'certificate of competencies' after practical and theoretical evaluation.
Employers may accept demonstrable experience plus references and a practical trial, but formal recognition helps you qualify for better pay and roles.

Gas fitting: ISCIR and ANRE

Gas installations in Romania typically require authorization from ANRE (the national energy regulator) for companies and, in some cases, certified personnel. Verify whether your role requires ANRE-recognized authorization or to work under a company holding it.
ISCIR (State Inspection for Control of Boilers, Pressure Vessels and Hoisting) oversees authorization related to boilers, pressure equipment, and certain heating appliances. If your work involves boilers or pressure vessels, you or your employer may need ISCIR-related authorizations and personnel roles (for example, responsibilities akin to supervisors or operators where required). Some employers facilitate these certifications.
If you see roles mentioning ISCIR authorization for gas boilers or pressure equipment, ask the employer to specify exactly which authorization track you must complete and whether they sponsor it.

Safety training and upskilling

SSM/PSI induction is mandatory on Romanian sites.
Additional tickets may include hot work permits, working at height, confined space procedures, and first aid.
Upskilling modules: condensing boiler diagnostics, heat pump installations, underfloor heating balancing, and press-fitting systems. Many large contractors sponsor these.

Document translations and proof

Always carry translated and, if needed, apostilled versions of your diplomas, references, and work logs. Include contact details of past supervisors. Having a curated portfolio of site photos, scope descriptions, and materials you handled can accelerate job offers.

Salary & Benefits

What plumbers typically earn in Romania

Salaries vary by city, experience, specialization, and contract type. The figures below are indicative ranges and may change with market demand and inflation.

Entry-level or assistant plumber: approximately 3,000 to 4,500 RON net per month
Experienced plumber/pipefitter: approximately 4,500 to 7,000 RON net per month
Senior plumber or foreman on major sites: approximately 6,500 to 9,000+ RON net per month
Overtime and project bonuses: often available during peak deadlines
Per diem allowances: possible for out-of-town projects

Self-employed tradespeople can price per hour or per project:

Hourly rates: roughly 40 to 100 RON per hour depending on city, complexity, and urgency
Call-out fees for emergency work: can range higher, particularly evenings and weekends

In major cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, rates trend higher due to cost of living and demand. In Timisoara and Iasi, rates are competitive and may come with steadier industrial or institutional work.

Benefits to consider

Paid leave: Romanian labor law sets minimum annual paid vacation (typically at least 20 working days). Confirm the exact number in your contract.
Sick leave: Generally available through the public system and employer policies.
Overtime pay: Clarify rates, caps, and approval processes.
Private health insurance: Sometimes offered by larger employers.
Training and certification sponsorship: Ask if the employer covers ISCIR/ANRE modules or other upskilling.

Work-life balance impact

A clear, written understanding of hours, overtime rules, and rest days is critical. Align your financial targets with realistic weekly schedules so you do not overextend and risk burnout. The European working time framework generally caps working hours around 48 per week on average, though specifics rely on contract terms and local law. Use this as a guardrail for mental health.

Cost of Living

Housing

Bucharest: One-bedroom apartment in a well-connected area can range from about 400 to 700 EUR per month; two-bedrooms 650 to 1,000 EUR depending on location and condition.
Cluj-Napoca: One-bedrooms often 350 to 600 EUR; family apartments 600 to 900 EUR.
Timisoara: One-bedrooms 300 to 500 EUR; larger apartments 500 to 800 EUR.
Iasi: One-bedrooms 300 to 450 EUR; larger apartments 450 to 750 EUR.

Tip: Proximity to metro or major bus/tram lines in Bucharest can save time and stress. In Cluj-Napoca and Timisoara, a short commute by tram or trolleybus can significantly improve daily wellbeing.

Utilities and internet

Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) for a modest apartment: 50 to 120 EUR per month depending on season and insulation.
High-speed internet: 7 to 15 EUR per month, widely available and reliable.

Transportation

Public transport: City passes are generally affordable. Expect roughly the equivalent of 15 to 35 EUR per month depending on the city and whether you use metro, bus, and tram. Bucharest has both metro and surface transport.
Fuel: Track current prices, but expect costs in line with broader EU energy trends.
Ride-hailing: Widely available in major cities and convenient during late shifts.

Food and daily expenses

Groceries: 150 to 250 EUR per month per person for a balanced diet.
Eating out: A casual lunch can be 6 to 10 EUR; dinner in mid-range restaurants 10 to 20 EUR per person without drinks.
Mobile phone plan: 5 to 10 EUR per month for generous data.

Mental health angle: budgeting for balance

Create a budgeting line for wellbeing: gym membership, weekend trips, language courses, or family activities. A small, planned spend on your mental health can prevent larger costs from burnout and illness.

Cultural Integration

Language basics for plumbers

While many supervisors in larger firms speak English, learning basic Romanian speeds up site integration and reduces stress.

Useful terms you may hear or use:

Water supply: 'alimentare cu apa'
Hot water: 'apa calda'
Drain: 'scurgere'
Valve: 'robinet'
Radiator: 'calorifer'
Expansion vessel: 'vas de expansiune'
Gas boiler: 'centrala pe gaz'
Pressure: 'presiune'
Flow: 'debit'
Copper: 'cupru'
PEX/PPR: same abbreviations are commonly used

Practice site phrases: 'Please shut off the main valve', 'Where is the riser?', 'We need pressure testing at 6 bar for 30 minutes', 'Let us check for leaks with soap solution'. Translate and keep a laminated card on hand in your first months.

Workplace culture

Punctuality and reliability are valued. Arrive on time and be prepared.
Direct but respectful communication is appreciated. If you disagree, explain clearly and propose alternatives.
Documentation matters. Keep records of tests, measurements, and materials used.
Colleagues often socialize at lunch or after work. Joining occasionally helps build trust.

Respect for standards

Romania follows EU-aligned standards and national technical norms for building services. Expect detailed references to standards for sanitary systems, heating circuits, insulation, and fire safety. Ask your foreman for the relevant project specifications and checklists.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Research and shortlist cities

Bucharest for the largest volume of work and higher rates
Cluj-Napoca for steady residential work and growing commercial projects
Timisoara for industrial installations and cross-border logistics
Iasi for institutional projects and residential growth

Prepare your professional portfolio

CV tailored to building services
Copies of diplomas, trade certificates, and references, translated into Romanian or English
Photo documentation of your past projects, test results, and equipment you are familiar with
List of tools you own and key skills: press-fitting, soldering, brazing, leak detection, hydronic balancing, boiler commissioning

Target employers and agencies

Identify construction and facility management firms in your chosen city.
Contact specialized installation contractors for plumbing, HVAC, and gas work.
Work with reputable recruitment agencies who place tradespeople. Ask about relocation support.

Secure a job offer and work authorization (for non-EU)

Clarify contract terms: base salary, overtime, per diems, hours, tools provided, PPE, paid leave, training support.
Confirm who handles the work authorization and visa steps. Verify timelines and document requirements.

Apply for the D/AM employment visa (for non-EU)

Assemble documents: passport, work authorization, job offer, accommodation, insurance, criminal record certificate, photos.
Book a consular appointment and follow submission instructions precisely.

Plan your landing

Temporary accommodation for the first month in a convenient neighborhood close to transport.
SIM card and bank account: choose a bank familiar with expat onboarding. Bring proof of address and passport.
Familiarize yourself with public transport routes and work site locations.

Tools and gear

Many employers provide basic tools and PPE. Confirm what you should bring.
Consider the metric system for all measurements. Ensure your adjustable wrenches, press tools, and testers are compatible with local standards and fittings.

Health and safety onboarding

Complete SSM/PSI induction promptly.
Ask for method statements, risk assessments, and testing procedures used on the site.

Certification alignment

Discuss with your employer whether you need ISCIR- or ANRE-related authorizations based on your scope.
If needed, enroll in courses or assessments for Romanian 'calificare' or competency certification via ANC or authorized centers.

Build your support network

Join expat groups and trades forums in your city.
Find a general practitioner and a dental clinic near your home.
Set up a weekly routine that includes rest, exercise, and social time.

Protecting Your Mental Health on Site and Off the Clock

Set realistic work hours and goals

Cap weekly hours according to your contract and the European working time framework. Consistent 60+ hour weeks are a burnout risk.
Negotiate overtime deliberately: accept premium shifts when you are rested and decline back-to-back weekends.
Plan financial targets monthly rather than daily so one slow day does not push you to overwork.

Use a personal workload checklist

Daily: hydration, 15-minute lunch away from active hazards, 2 short breathing breaks
Weekly: one full day off, one evening without screens, review budget and schedule
Monthly: short trip or family day, health check-in, skills refresh session

Build psychological safety with your team

Speak up early about unrealistic timelines or missing materials.
Normalize asking for a second pair of eyes before pressure tests or gas commissioning.
Encourage a culture of short toolbox talks that cover both safety and mental load.

Exercise and recovery

Prioritize stretching for shoulders, wrists, and lower back.
Use a foam roller after long days in tight spaces.
Sleep: target 7 hours minimum; use blackout curtains and limit caffeine late in the day.

Mindset tools for high-stress phases

Box breathing: inhale 4 seconds, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4, repeat for 2 minutes.
Micro-journaling: note top 3 wins and 1 lesson learned after every shift.
Boundary phrases: 'I can finish the final test today, but the documentation will be completed first thing tomorrow.'

Professional support

If your employer offers employee assistance programs, use them.
In larger cities, English-speaking counselors are available. Consider budgeting for a monthly session during the first 6 months of relocation.

Regulations and Standards You Must Know

Romanian construction standards

Romanian projects usually specify EU standards (EN) adopted as SR EN, plus national technical norms and fire safety codes. Expect requirements for:

Pipe material selection: PEX, PPR, copper, steel, stainless steel
Thermal insulation of pipes and equipment
Pressure testing protocols for water and heating circuits
Backflow prevention and anti-scald provisions in sanitary blocks
Firestopping for penetrations through fire-rated assemblies

Ask for the project specification and method statements. Keep a digital copy on your phone for quick reference.

Gas and pressure equipment

Companies performing gas work often need ANRE authorization; staff may need to work under that authorization.
Boilers and pressure vessels may fall under ISCIR oversight. Your employer should specify if you require personal authorization or if supervision under an authorized person suffices.
Keep meticulous records of leak tests, combustion analysis, and commissioning steps.

Metric system and local fittings

All measurements are in metric. Pipe diameters are commonly specified in millimeters and nominal pressures (PN ratings).
Verify press jaws and threading tools match local standards. Carry adapters when transitioning from different regional systems.

Documentation language

Daily logs, permits, and test reports are often in Romanian. Request bilingual templates if available. Work with a colleague to learn the standard fields and abbreviations.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Language barriers

Solution: Invest 15 minutes daily in Romanian practice. Use audio flashcards with technical phrases. Pair up with a Romanian colleague for language swaps.

Different codes and test procedures

Solution: Ask for the commissioning plan at the start. Create your own checklist aligned with the site spec. Store photos of test gauges and results for your records.

Tool compatibility

Solution: Before day one, confirm fitting types on the project (e.g., PEX press profiles, copper solder requirements). Bring compatible press jaws or borrow from the site.

Paperwork and visa stress

Solution: Work with employers and agencies experienced in hiring Global tradespeople. Keep a digital folder with all scans and translations. Renew permits early.

Overwork and fatigue

Solution: Schedule non-negotiable rest blocks. Track hours and symptoms (irritability, sleep issues). If symptoms persist, reduce hours or rotate tasks.

Success Stories and Tips From Other Expats

Start in a structured environment: Many expats recommend beginning with a larger contractor for your first 6 to 12 months to learn local standards and documentation. Then consider smaller firms or self-employment.
Build a mixed network: Connect with both expats and Romanian plumbers. You will gain job leads and fast answers to technical questions.
Keep learning: Short courses in condensing boilers, heat pumps, and hydronic balancing translate directly to higher rates.
Know your value: Bring international best practices to raise quality. Document your results so you can negotiate fairly.
Plan family transitions: If moving with family, line up schools and healthcare providers before arrival. A stable home base supports mental health and performance at work.

Practical Finance and Administration for Balance

Employment vs self-employment

Employment: Predictable income, benefits, and training support. Less administrative stress and better for mental load during your first year.
Self-employment (PFA) or company (SRL): Higher control and potentially higher income, but you manage taxes, invoicing, and compliance (including e-invoicing rules). Consider this route only after you understand local obligations.

Taxes and social contributions

Employees: Taxes and social contributions are withheld by the employer.
Self-employed: You are responsible for registering, paying income tax and social contributions, and filing reports. Work with a local accountant. A modest monthly fee can prevent costly mistakes and stress.

Banking and budgeting

Open a local account to receive wages and avoid transaction fees.
Automate rent, utilities, and savings transfers to reduce cognitive load.

Job Market Deep Dive: Opportunities by Segment

New construction

High-rise residential and mixed-use developments in Bucharest
Office fit-outs and shell-and-core installations in growing business districts
Hotels and hospitality pipelines in major cities

Skills that sell: organized riser installation, accurate leveling, fast press-fitting, documentation of pressure tests with photos and logs.

Renovation boom

Old building stock in city centers requires modernization of water and heating systems.
Demand for water-saving fixtures and efficient circulation systems.

Skills that sell: diagnostic problem-solving, clean retrofits in occupied spaces, communication with tenants.

Industrial installations

Automotive parts, electronics, and logistics hubs in Timisoara, Arad, and Cluj counties.
Process water systems, compressed air lines (with coordination with other trades), and stainless steel work in food-grade environments.

Skills that sell: reading P&IDs, pipe supports, alignment with quality and hygiene protocols, and coordination with electricians and automation teams.

Heating upgrades

Transition to condensing boilers, improved controls, and underfloor heating systems.
Interest in heat pumps and hybrid systems in energy-conscious households.

Skills that sell: commissioning, balancing, combustion analysis, and homeowner education.

Step-by-Step Daily Routine for Wellbeing

Morning

5-minute stretch and hydration
Review site plan and material list
Set a micro-goal: one task you will finish before lunch

On site

Wear PPE consistently to avoid minor injuries that compound stress
Take two 5-minute breath-and-reset breaks away from noise
If stuck, ask for a second opinion rather than pushing through fatigue

Lunch

Balanced meal and 10 minutes of daylight if possible
Quick message home to maintain connection

Afternoon

Focus on quality and documentation of tests
Prepare materials for the next day to reduce morning stress

Evening

30-minute walk or light exercise
Quick journal: 3 wins and 1 adjustment for tomorrow
Limit screens 1 hour before sleep

Salary Negotiation Checklist

Confirm the base net salary per month and the gross figure for transparency
Overtime: rate, maximum weekly hours, and approval process
Per diem: when working away from home, amount and coverage
Tools and PPE: which are provided and which you bring
Training: will the employer sponsor ISCIR, ANRE, or other certifications
Travel time: paid or unpaid for multi-site work
Pay schedule: monthly, biweekly, or milestone-based for projects

Avoiding Burnout While Maximizing Overseas Earnings

Use seasonal planning: Aim for higher overtime in peak months, then schedule recovery weeks with normal hours.
Target skill premiums: Specialize in high-demand tasks (e.g., boiler commissioning, hydronic balancing) to increase rates without longer hours.
Avoid commute traps: Live within 30 to 45 minutes of the main site to cut daily fatigue.
Build a support map: Identify three people you can call: one technical mentor, one local friend, and one family member for personal support.
Protect at least one full day off per week: Without this, both quality and safety decline.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Working in Romania as an international plumber can be a smart move for your career and finances, provided you protect your mental health from day one. The market is active, the standards are professional, and the cost of living enables savings without sacrificing quality of life. With the right certifications, a clear work authorization plan, and strong daily routines, you can grow your reputation, earn well, and enjoy your time off both in the city and in Romania's beautiful countryside.

If you are ready to take the next step, build your portfolio, target employers in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi, and set a balanced weekly schedule before you arrive. Your best work happens when your wellbeing is part of the plan.

FAQ

1) What visa do I need as a non-EU plumber to work in Romania?

You usually need an employer-sponsored work authorization (Aviz de Angajare), then apply for a long-stay employment visa (category D/AM) at a Romanian consulate. After entering Romania, apply for a residence permit at IGI. Requirements change, so always confirm with official sources.

2) Will my foreign plumbing qualifications be recognized?

Romania aligns with EU standards. For non-EU qualifications, you may need recognition via the National Authority for Qualifications (ANC) or demonstrate competencies through accredited assessment centers. Employers often accept experience when backed by references and practical tests. If your work involves gas or boilers, clarify ANRE and ISCIR authorization requirements.

3) How much can I earn, and is it enough to live comfortably?

Experienced plumbers often net about 4,500 to 7,000 RON per month, with higher figures for senior roles or overtime. Self-employed rates vary by city and specialization. In Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca, rents are higher, but you can still save if you budget. In Timisoara and Iasi, housing is more affordable. Plan a wellbeing budget for exercise, trips, and family time to support mental health.

4) Can I bring my own tools?

Yes, but clarify compatibility. Romania uses the metric system, and press-fitting standards must match local profiles. Many employers provide core tools and PPE. Bringing your favorite hand tools is fine, but verify with your employer before transporting heavy power tools.

5) Do I need Romanian language skills to work on site?

Basic Romanian is a strong advantage, especially for safety and coordination. In larger companies, English may be common at supervisor level, but learning key site terms reduces stress and errors. Consider a short course or daily 15-minute practice.

6) What about healthcare and insurance?

Employees are generally enrolled in the national health system through payroll contributions. You can also purchase private coverage. Self-employed workers must register and contribute to access public healthcare. Identify a local clinic and keep emergency contacts handy (112 is the national emergency number).

7) How do overtime and rest rules work?

Romanian labor law and EU frameworks aim to protect rest and limit excessive hours. Contracts should detail normal hours, overtime rates, and compensatory rest. Track your hours and communicate early if schedules become unsustainable. Protecting rest is essential for safety and mental health.

8) Will I need ISCIR or ANRE authorization?

If your work involves gas installations, ANRE authorization is typically relevant at the company level and sometimes for personnel. For boilers and pressure equipment, ISCIR oversight may apply. Employers usually guide you through the needed training and exams. Ask for clarity before you accept the role.

9) How can I prevent burnout during peak project phases?

Use micro-breaks, hydrate, and rotate tasks. Schedule recovery days after intense weeks. Say yes to overtime strategically rather than continuously. Maintain a simple routine: daily stretch, weekly rest day, monthly mini-trip or family day. Seek support early if stress symptoms persist.

10) What cities are best for plumbers starting out?

Bucharest offers the most opportunities and higher rates, but also higher rents and more traffic. Cluj-Napoca balances strong demand with a vibrant city life. Timisoara provides industrial and commercial projects with manageable living costs. Iasi is a good option for institutional and residential work. Choose based on your project interests and lifestyle preferences.