Job Price Calculator UK
Pricing a job correctly is the difference between making a living and just scraping by. This guide walks you through the essential components of a profitable UK job price, helping you move from guesswork to a solid, repeatable pricing strategy.
Key pricing factors
Labour & Time
Your base hourly or day rate multiplied by realistic time estimates. Always add a 15-20% buffer for unexpected delays.
Materials & Consumables
Direct costs of parts plus a markup (typically 10-25%) to cover ordering, handling, and potential wastage.
Travel & Mileage
Fuel, vehicle wear, and parking. Often charged at 45p per mile, or wrapped into a call-out fee.
Profit Margin
The money left after all costs and wages are paid. Essential for business growth, taxes, and sick pay.
Example: Small Room Plastering
- Labour (1.5 days @ £220)
- £330.00
- Materials (Plaster, beads, tape)
- £85.00
- Travel (20 miles & parking)
- £15.00
- Total Cost
- £430.00
- Profit Margin (20%)
- £86.00
- Recommended Price
- £516.00
By clearly separating the base costs from the profit margin, you ensure the business makes money beyond just covering the day wage.
Practical quoting guidance
- Never guess your materials cost. Look up current trade prices before quoting.
- If you are VAT registered, ensure you clearly state whether your quote includes or excludes VAT.
- Always request a deposit (20-30%) for jobs requiring significant upfront material purchases.
Frequently asked questions
Should I charge an hourly rate or a fixed price?
For small repairs, an hourly rate (with a minimum call-out) protects you against quick but complex fixes. For jobs taking half a day or more, customers prefer a fixed price.
What is a normal profit margin?
Most UK trades aim for a 15-30% net profit margin on top of their wages and costs, depending on overheads and demand.
How do I handle unexpected complications?
Include a clear clause in your quote stating that unforeseen issues (like damp behind tiles) will be quoted separately before proceeding.