Find a Builder near you
The average rating for Bark Builders is 4.74, based on 433,366 reviews
5/5
based on 433,366 reviews
With so many builders to choose from, how can you find the right one for your budget? Our general builder price guide will help.
Whether you're planning a small renovation, building an extension, or crafting your dream home from the ground up, finding the right builder is as critical as it is daunting. What's even more nerve-wracking is the big question mark hanging over the cost of your building project. As a homeowner or developer in the UK, a clear understanding of builder costs is your blueprint to staying on budget and bringing your ambitions to life without sinking financially.
This extensive guide navigates the nuanced world of builder costs in the UK for 2024, helping you decipher hourly and daily rates and project-based fees. You'll walk away equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions, source the right talent, and potentially save a significant sum in the process.
And when you're ready to get started on your project, you can find a great local builder on Bark.
Builders form the backbone of any construction project. They are the magicians turning drawings into reality, handling everything from building the foundation to applying the last lick of paint. But the term 'builder' is a blanket that covers various specialized roles in construction.
Here's a quick breakdown of how different builders contribute to your project:
The masters of multiple building activities, general builders often double as project managers. They handle everything from small repairs to significant construction.
As the craftspeople who bring your structure to life with bricks, mortar, and precision, bricklayers are the sculptors of your project.
While not skilled in a particular trade, labourers perform essential groundwork, move materials, and assist all builders on site.
The unsung heroes of safety, scaffolders construct, move, and dismantle the metal frameworks that keep your building team secure.
Whether it's flat, pitched, or something in between, roofers craft and install the covering that shields your building from the elements.
An all-encompassing role, general contractors oversee the work of all subcontractors, ensuring the project progresses smoothly.
A last note - you won't always need a builder for small projects. You might find is cheaper and more convenient to hire a handyman for those smaller projects, depending on their experience and what you need doing. And if you want a very specific project done, such as converting a garage, you can find professionals who are specifically trained for the job.
For the average homeowner or developer, the cost of hiring a builder in the UK sits within quite a broad range. While the exact cost can be challenging to pin down without knowing the specifics of your project, we can provide a rough estimate to get you started. If you want a more specific price right away, we'll put you in touch with trusted local builders who can give you a quote.
In 2024, hourly rates for builders can begin at £30 and extend upwards of £80, factoring in the builder's skill and the tasks they'll perform.
A more common method for billing, daily rates can range from £150 to £400. The variation can be attributed to the same factors that influence hourly rates.
Complex projects often require a fixed price, or project rate, which can be anywhere from £150 to £600 per square meter. This comprehensive fee includes all labour, materials, and any subcontractor costs.
Your location plays a pivotal role in influencing the prices you'll encounter when hiring a builder in the UK. Additionally, the complexity and size of your project will directly impact the cost. Expect more significant investments for jobs in London and the South East, as the cost of living and operating a business is notably higher. Take a look at these average prices for UK building projects:
| Region | Great value | Average | Premium |
| UK average | £600 | £1,800 | £16,000+ |
| London | £550 | £2,700 | £17,000+ |
Each category of builder comes with its price tag. Here's a more detailed look:
| General builders | £150-400 |
| Bricklayers | £200-£400 |
| Labourers | £150-£230 |
| Scaffolders | £200-£280 |
| Roofers | £180-£330 |
At the heart of the construction world, general builders in the UK charge approximately £150 to £300 per day. Their versatility and project management skills can make them worth their weight in gold.
Specialized and with a specific skill set, bricklayers can command a daily rate of £200 to £400.
The backbone of the workforce, labourers cost approximately £150 to £230 per day, making them a cost-effective addition to your team.
Due to the high-risk element of their job, scaffolders in the UK charge a premium, ranging from £200 to £400 per day.
Roofers' prices are often tethered to materials and scale. However, you might expect to pay £180 to £330 a day or £18 to £25 per square meter for re-roofing a typical UK house.
Whilst assembling their services under one banner can be pricey, the efficiency and peace of mind a general contractor can provide might be well worth the investment. Their rates vary greatly based on the scale and complexity of your project.
| Pricing Structure | Average cost |
| Percentage of entire project cost | 15 - 25% (in total) |
| Daily | £100 - £400 per day |
Builders are a substantial cost, but there are areas where you can economize without compromising quality or safety.
Obtain multiple quotes before deciding on a builder. This will give you a better understanding of the market and may reveal a fairer deal.
Clear and detailed plans can save builders time and save you money.
Builders may offer lower rates in their off-season. You can capitalize on this by scheduling more substantial works when they're more affordable.
Depending on your skills and the task at hand, consider taking on some aspects of the work yourself or with the help of friends. Always be sure that you're adding value rather than causing delays or potential problems.
When you're ready to choose a builder, consider more than just the price. Delve into their portfolio, check references, and ensure they have the necessary insurance and certifications.
The right builder might not have the lowest quote but will provide the best value for the money. Look for reputable and experienced companies that have a track record of successful projects within your budget.
Regardless of how much you've saved on your initial project cost, always set aside a contingency fund of around 10-15%. Unforeseen circumstances are a part of any construction project and having this safety net can be a lifesaver.
Once you've chosen a builder, have a clear, detailed contract that outlines the work, timetable, and costs. This document will be your protection should any disputes arise.
In conclusion, understanding the cost of builders in the UK is as crucial as any structural or design aspect of your project. Prepare, research, and negotiate to ensure you maximize every penny spent. Your dream project deserves nothing less!
Ready to get started? Find a brilliant builder on Bark today.
The average rating for Bark Builders is 4.74, based on 433,366 reviews
5/5
based on 433,366 reviews
