How much will a builder cost? An updated look at prices

builder with calculator
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Exactly what does a builder cost? Whether you’re embarking on a full new-build house project or just an extension, one of the first things you’ll want to establish is how much a builder is going to cost. This is a big question and the answer will depend on a variety of factors, ranging from what you’re building and the level of design/finish, to where it’s located and the type of ‘builder’ you are engaging to undertake the project.  

If your build project is relatively small your builder may be skilled in doing all of the work themselves or they may be a building company, dealing with the core infrastructure on site, and engaging subcontractors for specific trades to complete the project.  

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TradeAverage Hourly RateAverage Day Rate
Carpenter & Joiner£32£256
Plumber£40£320
Electrician£40£320
Painter & Decorator£28£224
Plasterer£30£240
Builder£37.50£300
Labourer£18.75£150-£200
Bricklayer£30£240

Tim Phillips is an experienced senior quantity surveyor and estimator and has worked in the construction industry for over 35 years. He has worked on many varied projects in this time, for corporates, public bodies and private residential clients, managing multi-million budgets. 

For the past 13 years, Tim has worked on a freelance basis, whilst managing his rental property portfolio. He has extensive experience of undertaking his own full-scale house renovations. He is also a speaker and expert at the Homebuilding & Renovating Shows.