UK Carpenter Rates at a Glance (2025)
| Region | Hourly Rate | Day Rate |
|---|---|---|
| National average | £30–£50/hr | £180–£280/day |
| London | £50–£75/hr | £280–£420/day |
| South East | £40–£62/hr | £240–£360/day |
| Midlands | £28–£46/hr | £165–£260/day |
| North England | £25–£42/hr | £155–£240/day |
| Scotland | £27–£44/hr | £160–£250/day |
| Wales | £25–£40/hr | £150–£235/day |
Are you a carpenter? These are market averages. Your rate needs to cover your van, tools, insurance, and target income — not just match what others charge. Use our free carpenter day rate calculator to find your actual minimum.
What Do Carpenters Charge for Common Jobs?
Carpentry covers a wide range of work — from hanging a door in half a day to spending three weeks building a bespoke staircase. Prices below are for typical domestic jobs in 2025.
What Affects a Carpenter's Rate?
Carpentry skills vary enormously. Someone who can hang a door quickly and cleanly is not necessarily the same person who can design and build bespoke fitted furniture from scratch. Rate differences often reflect this:
- First vs second fix — First fix (structural timber, frames, studwork) is generally less specialised than second fix (door furniture, skirting, architrave, staircases). Many carpenters do both, but some specialise.
- Bespoke vs. standard — A joiner building custom fitted furniture charges significantly more than someone hanging pre-hung doors. The skill set is different.
- NVQ / City & Guilds — Qualified carpenters with Level 2/3 NVQ tend to charge more and rightly so — they're insurable for a wider range of work and less likely to cause problems that cost you money later.
- CSCS card — Required for most commercial sites. Carpenters with a valid CSCS card can take on site work alongside domestic jobs, which makes them more flexible and often busier.
- Location — London and South East rates are 30–50% above northern England. The gap is real and consistent.
First Fix vs Second Fix: Why the Rate Difference?
First fix carpentry — roof structures, floor joists, studwork, door frames — tends to be physically demanding but less precision-focused than second fix. Second fix work like fitting skirting perfectly around a bay window or building a cut string staircase requires a higher level of skill and experience. Don't be surprised if you get a higher quote for second fix work from the same carpenter who quoted you a lower rate for first fix.
Are you a carpenter? Know your real rate.
Our free calculator factors in your overheads, non-billable days, and target income to show you the minimum you need to charge — not just the average.
Calculate My Carpenter Rate ›Frequently Asked Questions
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How much does a carpenter charge per day in the UK?UK carpenters typically charge £180–£280 per day nationally. London and South East carpenters charge £280–£420/day. Joiners working on bespoke items may quote per project.
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How much does a carpenter charge per hour?Carpenter hourly rates are typically £30–£50/hr nationally, rising to £50–£75/hr in London. Most charge a 1-hour minimum for call-out work.
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What's the difference between a carpenter and a joiner?A joiner typically works in a workshop making timber components — doors, frames, staircases, fitted furniture. A carpenter fits those components on site. Many tradespeople do both, but the distinction can affect their rate.
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How much does it cost to fit a door?Fitting a standard internal door (supply and fit) typically costs £150–£300. Labour only (if you supply the door) is usually £80–£150, depending on whether it needs trimming or new lining.
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Do carpenters charge VAT?Only if VAT registered (turnover over £90,000/year in 2025/26). Many sole-trader carpenters are below this threshold. Always confirm whether quotes are ex-VAT or inclusive — on a larger project the 20% difference matters.