The future of any industry is shaped by the confluence of technological advancements, regulatory changes, evolving consumer expectations, and the inherent dynamics of the respective industry. The plumbing services industry is no exception to this norm. As we venture into a new decade, myriad changes are on the horizon, poised to redefine the way we perceive and consume plumbing services.

The advent of smart technology forms the crux of the forthcoming changes in the plumbing industry. This should come as no surprise in the context of the fourth industrial revolution, where digital and physical systems are increasingly integrated. In simple terms, smart technology involves the use of devices or systems that can communicate and interact with each other in an automated way, usually via the Internet. In the plumbing services industry, smart technology primarily manifests in the form of smart water systems.

Smart water systems leverage a combination of sensors, analytics software, and communication technology to automatically monitor water usage and detect anomalies (like leaks) in real-time. The implementation of these systems reduces water waste, prevents water damage, and facilitates efficient water usage. To put things in context, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States estimates that household leaks can waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water annually. By providing early detection of leaks, smart water systems have the potential to significantly mitigate this waste.

Another emerging trend in the plumbing services industry is the increasing emphasis on sustainability. As water scarcity becomes a pressing issue globally, the realization that 'business as usual' is not an option anymore is slowly but surely seeping into the industry. This is reflected in the growing popularity of water-efficient appliances like low-flow toilets and showerheads, and greywater recycling systems. Greywater systems, for instance, recycle water from sources like showers and washing machines for non-potable uses such as toilet flushing and irrigation. This not only conserves water but also reduces the strain on municipal sewage treatment systems.

On the regulatory front, increasingly stringent standards for water efficiency are set to shape the future of the plumbing services industry. The WaterSense program by the EPA, for instance, sets performance criteria for water-efficient products and services. These regulations, while necessitating compliance, also provide an opportunity for plumbing services firms to differentiate themselves by aligning their offerings to the sustainability agenda.

The evolution of consumer expectations, driven by broader societal changes, is another key factor shaping the future of the plumbing services industry. As the millennial generation, known for its environmental consciousness, becomes the dominant demographic in the housing market, demand for green plumbing solutions is set to rise. Furthermore, in the age of instant gratification, consumers also expect quicker response times, necessitating the adoption of digital tools for scheduling and dispatching.

While these predictions offer a glimpse into the plausible future of the plumbing services industry, it's crucial to bear in mind the inherent uncertainties embedded in any forward-looking analysis. Factors like the pace of technological advancements, changes in regulatory landscapes, and unforeseen events (like the COVID-19 pandemic) can sway the trajectory in unexpected ways.

In conclusion, the plumbing services industry is at an inflection point, with the confluence of smart technology, sustainability concerns, regulatory changes, and evolving consumer expectations set to reshape its future. As we embark on this journey into the new decade, it would be interesting to witness how these predictions and trends play out in reality, and what other surprises the future holds.