Updated April 2026
How Much Does a Plumber Cost Per Hour?
Plumbers typically charge by the hour, with rates varying based on location, experience, and the type of work. Many also charge a call-out fee on top of their hourly rate.
What you can expect to pay
| Description | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hourly rate | £40 | £60 | £80 |
| Call-out fee | £50 | £75 | £100 |
| Full day rate | £250 | £350 | £450 |
Prices are UK averages for 2026 including VAT where applicable. Your actual cost may vary based on location and specific requirements.
What affects the price
Emergency call-outs, especially evenings and weekends, can cost double the standard rate. Always ask about out-of-hours pricing upfront.
The complexity of the job affects cost. A simple tap replacement is very different from re-plumbing a bathroom.
Rates in London and major cities are consistently higher. Expect to pay 20 to 40% more in central London compared to regional averages.
Experienced plumbers with Gas Safe registration or other specialist qualifications may charge more, but bring additional skills and safety assurance.
How to keep costs down
- 1
For non-urgent work, book during weekday daytime hours to avoid emergency and weekend surcharges.
- 2
Ask for a fixed price quote rather than an hourly rate when possible. This protects you if the job takes longer than expected.
- 3
Combine small jobs into one visit. Getting a dripping tap, a running toilet, and a radiator bleed done in one call-out is far cheaper than three separate visits.
- 4
Check whether the quote includes materials. Some plumbers mark up parts significantly, while others charge materials at cost.
Frequently asked questions
For general plumbing (taps, toilets, pipes, bathrooms), a standard plumber is fine. For anything involving gas (boilers, gas hobs, gas fires), you need a Gas Safe registered engineer. Some plumbers hold both qualifications.
A straightforward pipe repair typically costs £80 to £150 including the call-out fee. If the leak is behind a wall or under a floor, the access work pushes the price higher. Emergency leak repairs outside normal hours can cost £150 to £300.
Many plumbers offer free quotes for larger jobs like bathroom fitting or re-plumbing. For smaller repair work, they may charge a call-out fee that gets absorbed into the job cost if you go ahead. Always ask before they visit.
Personal recommendations are the most reliable. Failing that, look for plumbers with verified reviews and check they have the right qualifications for the work. For gas work, verify their Gas Safe registration number on the official register.
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