How much does a plumber cost in the UK?
Last updated 14 June 2026 · 6 min read · Reviewed by the GotAPal editorial team
If you've got a dripping tap, a blocked loo or no hot water, the first question is usually the same: what's this going to cost me? Plumber prices vary a fair bit across the UK, but once you know the going rates you'll spot a fair quote — and a rip-off — straight away.
The short version
- Call-out fees are typically £40–£80; ask if the first hour is included.
- Hourly rates run £40–£80 outside London, £70–£120 in London and the South East.
- Day rates of £250–£450 often work out cheaper on bigger jobs.
- Out-of-hours and emergency work is charged at a premium.
- Get the rate up front and in writing, and compare two or three quotes.
The short answer
Most UK plumbers charge in one of three ways:
- Call-out fee: A fixed charge just to turn up, typically £40–£80. Some roll the first hour into this; others add it on top, so always ask.
- Hourly rate: Usually £40–£80 per hour outside London, and £70–£120 per hour in London and the South East.
- Day rate: For bigger jobs, expect £250–£450 a day, which often works out cheaper than hourly if the work runs long.
Emergency and out-of-hours work (evenings, weekends, bank holidays) is charged at a premium — often 1.5 to 2 times the standard rate.
Typical prices for common jobs
These are rough UK averages including labour and basic parts. Always get the price confirmed for your specific job before work starts.
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Fix a dripping tap | £80–£150 |
| Replace a tap | £100–£180 |
| Unblock a sink or toilet | £80–£200 |
| Replace a toilet | £150–£350 |
| Fit a new radiator | £150–£300 |
| Install a bathroom (labour) | £2,500–£6,000 |
| Power-flush a heating system | £300–£600 |
| Fix a burst pipe (emergency) | £150–£400+ |
Prices climb with how awkward the job is — a tap in a cramped under-stair cupboard takes longer than one in an open kitchen.
What affects the price
- Where you live. London and the South East are the priciest; the North East, Wales and Scotland tend to be cheaper.
- Time of day. Out-of-hours and emergency call-outs cost significantly more.
- Parts. A quote may be labour-only, with parts added afterwards. Ask whether parts are included.
- Access and complexity. Hard-to-reach pipework, old systems and tiled-over fittings all add time.
- Gas work. Anything involving gas (boilers, gas hobs) must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer — see our guide on Gas Safe work.
How to avoid being overcharged
- Get the rate up front. Ask whether it's a call-out fee, hourly or fixed price, and what's included.
- Get it in writing. A written quote protects you. Be wary of "I'll let you know at the end."
- Compare two or three quotes for anything over a couple of hundred pounds. (See do I need three quotes?)
- Check they're insured and, for gas work, Gas Safe registered (check the engineer's ID card).
- Read recent reviews from real local customers before you book.
Find a trusted plumber near you
Browsing local plumbers with real reviews makes it far easier to judge a fair price. You can find and compare plumbers in your area on GotAPal — see who's nearby, read what real customers say, and message them directly. No lead fees, no hassle.
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