How to Price Plumbing Jobs: A Guide for Plumbers

Pricing plumbing work can feel like guesswork when you are starting out. Here is a framework to help you quote fairly and profitably.

Typical day rates for plumbers in the North East

Most plumbers in the North East charge between £200 and £300 per day. Emergency and out-of-hours work commands a premium, typically 1.5x to 2x your standard rate. If you are Gas Safe registered and do boiler work, you can charge towards the higher end.

Common plumbing jobs and typical prices

These are rough guides for the North East in 2026:

• Dripping tap repair: £60 to £120
• Toilet replacement: £150 to £300 (plus the toilet)
• Radiator installation: £200 to £400 per radiator
• Bathroom suite fitting: £800 to £2,000 (labour only)
• Boiler replacement: £500 to £1,000 (labour, excluding boiler)
• Full central heating system: £2,500 to £5,000 (labour)

How to build your quote

Start with how long the job will take, including travel time and buying materials. Multiply by your hourly or daily rate. Add the cost of materials with a 10-20% markup (this is standard and customers expect it). Add a contingency of 10% for unexpected issues, especially on older properties.

Always do a site visit for bigger jobs

Never quote for a bathroom refit or boiler install over the phone. Visit the property, check access, look at the existing pipework, and identify any potential complications. A 30-minute site visit saves you from costly surprises later.

Put it in writing

Send a clear, itemised quote. List what is included, the timeline, payment terms, and what would cause the price to change (for example, discovering hidden damage). Professional quotes win more work than scribbled estimates on the back of a receipt.

Getting listed

Make sure your North East Trades profile is up to date with your services, pricing guidance, and photos of completed work. Customers searching for plumbers filter by rating and location, so a strong profile brings you enquiries on autopilot.