General Plumbing Services Guide

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02/07/25, 14:04
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General Plumbing Services Guide
Scope of Works
Inspect & diagnose leaks, blockages, low pressure or faulty fittings.
Isolate water, drain down and protect surrounding areas.
Repair or replace taps, traps, cistern parts, hoses, valves and small lengths of pipe.
Clear minor drains and traps; bleed or balance radiators (non‑boiler).
Test, flush and recommission systems, checking for leaks and correct flow.
Provide advice on preventative maintenance and issue a work report.
Typical Cost (inc. VAT)
Charge type | Low £ | High £ | Notes |
Call‑out / minimum | 80 | 120 | Average 2025 plumber call‑out fee Checkatrade |
Labour per hour | 40 | 60 | UK hourly rate £40‑£60; avg £50 CheckatradeHomeownerCosts |
Materials | 20 | 180 | Small parts or a new tap (avg £100) MyJobQuote |
Disposal | 0 | 60 | Old fittings & packaging; small loads often free at council tips, larger via man‑and‑van £75+ Checkatrade |
Extras (e.g. scaffold, out‑of‑hours) | 0 | 300 | Emergency rates £80‑£120/hr; towers for high stacks Checkatrade |
180 | 600 | Typical one‑visit domestic repair or small install |
Time on Site
1 – 4 hours for a single repair or tap change.Longer if parts need sourcing, pipework is hidden, access is tight (boxed‑in pipes, loft tanks), or multiple fixtures are tackled in one visit.
Questions to Ask Your Trade
Is the call‑out fee deducted from the final invoice if the job proceeds?
Do you carry common spare parts (taps, washers, valves) to finish in one visit?
Will you provide a fixed‑price quote after inspection, not just an hourly rate?
Are you WaterSafe or CIPHE registered and fully insured?
How will you protect floors and units from water and tool damage?
What guarantee do you offer on workmanship and supplied parts?
If complications arise (e.g., corroded pipes), how will additional costs be agreed?
How to Avoid Surprises
Locate and test the main stop‑cock before the plumber arrives.
Clear under‑sink cupboards and create unobstructed access to the work area.
Reserve close parking for the van (heavy tool kits).
Confirm if out‑of‑hours rates might apply if the job overruns.
Check whether roof or high‑level stacks need safe working platforms or permits.
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