Setting your prices is one of the hardest things about going self employed as a plumber. This guide covers what plumbers actually charge in 2026, how to calculate your minimum rate, and when to charge more. If you haven’t registered yet, start with How to Set Up as a Self Employed Plumber UK first.
| Type of work | Hourly rate | Day rate |
|---|---|---|
| General plumbing (no gas) | £40–£60 | £150–£250 |
| Gas Safe plumber | £50–£80 | £200–£350 |
| Emergency callout | £80–£150 | n/a |
| London / South East | +20–40% | +20–40% |
Hourly rate — best for small jobs and unpredictable work. Day rate — best for bigger jobs like bathroom fits or heating installs. Fixed price — best for standard jobs like a boiler service, where customers value certainty.
| Step | Figure |
|---|---|
| 1. Target take-home pay | £40,000 |
| 2. Add tax + NI (estimated) | £50,000–£55,000 gross |
| 3. Add business overheads | £7,000–£11,000 |
| 4. Total revenue needed | £57,000–£66,000 |
| 5. Divide by billable hours (1,200–1,500/yr) | £44–£51/hour minimum |
You won’t bill 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, 52 weeks a year — factor in quoting, travel, admin and quiet periods or you’ll undercharge.
Emergency/out-of-hours: 50–100% premium. Specialist work: unvented systems, underfloor heating, commercial gas. High demand: winter heating season. Difficult access: crawl spaces, loft work, scaffolding jobs.
Tracking actual costs per job — parts, mileage, time, parking — is the only way to know which jobs make you money. Once you’re pricing with confidence, make sure you’re claiming everything you’re owed in Self Employed Plumber Tax Return — Step by Step Guide.
The plumbers who earn the most know their numbers, price accurately, and don’t take on work that loses them money.
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