Plasterer Rates in London vs the National Average
| Rate Type | London | UK National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly rate | £49–£84/hr | £35–£60/hr |
| Day rate | £250–£450/day | £180–£320/day |
Plasterer rates per m² are fairly consistent nationally, but day rates vary by city. External rendering and specialist finishes attract a premium wherever you are in the UK. Central London postcodes (EC, WC, SW1, W1) command an additional premium on top of the already elevated London baseline. Many tradespeople add a zone surcharge for inner-borough work.
Are you a Plasterer in London? These are market averages — your rate should reflect your actual costs. Use our free plasterer rate calculator to find what you personally need to charge.
How Much Do Plasterers Charge for Common Jobs in London?
These figures show London-adjusted estimates for typical jobs. Prices include labour only unless stated.
Why Are Plasterer Rates in London Different?
London has a unique combination of the Congestion Charge for vans, extremely high parking costs, and a dense population willing to pay for quality. Supply of qualified tradespeople hasn't kept pace with demand, particularly for specialist work.
Good to know: Any ceiling or wall surface over 20 years old should be tested for asbestos before artex is disturbed. A professional asbestos survey costs £100–£300 and is worth it.
Other Cities: Plasterer Rate Comparisons
See how London plasterer rates compare to other UK cities:
Are you a Plasterer in London?
Use our free calculator to find the minimum you need to charge — based on your real costs, not city averages.
Calculate My Plasterer Rate ›Frequently Asked Questions
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How much does a plasterer charge per m² in London?Plasterers in London typically charge £11–£21/m² for a skim coat finish. Full re-plastering including boarding runs higher. These rates may vary slightly for particularly poor surfaces or hard-to-reach areas.
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What is the plasterer day rate in London?A plasterer’s day rate in London is typically £250–£450. Most plastering jobs are quoted as a fixed price per room or per m² rather than by the hour.
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How long does it take to plaster a room?A competent plasterer will typically skim a standard bedroom in half a day. Full plasterboarding and skimming takes a full day or more. Drying time is 24–72 hours before the surface is ready for painting.
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Why do plasterer rates in London differ from the national average?London has a unique combination of the Congestion Charge for vans, extremely high parking costs, and a dense population willing to pay for quality. Supply of qualified tradespeople hasn't kept pace with demand, particularly for specialist work.
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Do I need to test for asbestos before my plasterer starts work in London?Yes — if your property was built before 2000 and has artex ceilings or old plaster, an asbestos survey is strongly recommended before any disturbance. Your plasterer should not begin work without this confirmation on older properties.