What Day Rate Should I Charge?
Quick Answer
Labourer £120–160, Skilled £180–280, Specialist £250–400
Based on: UK average self-employed trade day rates, 2026. Rates vary significantly by location and trade.
Typical UK Day Rates by Trade (2026)
- General labourer: £120–160/day
- Painter & decorator: £150–220/day
- Plasterer: £180–260/day
- Carpenter/joiner: £180–280/day
- Bricklayer: £180–280/day
- Plumber: £200–300/day
- Electrician: £200–320/day
- Gas engineer: £220–350/day
- Roofer: £200–300/day
- Specialist (e.g., heritage, structural): £250–400+/day
London and South East Premium
Add 20–40% for London and the South East. Rates in the North and rural areas tend to be at the lower end of the ranges above.
How to Calculate Your Day Rate
A common formula for self-employed tradespeople:
- Target annual income (e.g., £45,000)
- + Overheads (van, tools, insurance, accountant: ~£10,000–15,000)
- + Tax & NI provision (~25–30%)
- ÷ Billable days (typically 220–230 days/year after holidays and quiet periods)
- = Required day rate
Day Rate vs Quoted Price
Most experienced tradespeople price by the job rather than the day. Day rates are useful for variations, time-and-materials work, or when scope is uncertain. Always agree the basis of charging with the customer before starting.
Last updated: April 2026. Rates are indicative UK averages for self-employed tradespeople. Employed rates will differ. Always check local market rates.