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01 · Ask
Repair, match or build new?
Spalling brick, dropped wall, want a new extension? Describe what you've got — the AI tells you whether it's a repointing job, a rebuild or a structural call.
Cost a bricklayer.
What a UK brickie really costs per day in 2026 — labour-only, with labourer, and the regional variations.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
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Read the brief on bond, mortar and DPC — then let Three local bricklayers quote on the right spec.
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02 · Read the brief
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Stretcher vs Flemish bond, NHL lime, cavity ties, weep holes, DPC heights. Know what good looks like before the first course is laid.
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03 · Compare
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Three local bricklayers quote on the same spec — bricks, mortar, scaffold, finishing — so you can pick the right hand for the job.
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Top tips
Hiring a bricklayer, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Match the brick before they start.
On extensions and repairs, sourcing the right brick is harder than laying it. Insist on a sample wall — three courses, on-site, in your light — before they buy the pallet.
Get the mortar mix in writing.
Lime mortar, cement mortar, NHL grade — the wrong mix on the wrong brick spalls in five winters. Ask which mix and why.
Check the bond before pointing.
Stretcher, Flemish, English — the bond should match the existing wall, especially on period properties. Catch it at first course, not after pointing.
Insist on a damp-proof course.
Any external wall needs a DPC at the right height — 150mm above finished ground level. A missing or wrong DPC creates damp problems you'll be fixing for years.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Day rate
£200–£350/day
Brickwork (per m²)Inc. labour, ex. bricks
£80–£160/m²
Repointing (per m²)
£30–£70/m²
Garden wall (per linear m)1m high, single skin
£120–£280
Chimney rebuild
£1.8k–£4.5k
Brick arch (over opening)
£350–£900
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
InfographicThe Bricklayer briefing.
Infographic
Bricklayer quick-view
Bricklayer day rates vary significantly across the UK — London commands premium prices, while regional rates run 30–40% less. Understanding day rates helps you evaluate quotes and negotiate sensibly. This guide covers what UK bricklayer day rates actually are in 2026, what's typically included, and the regional variation.
Most quotes are per-project not per-day, but understanding the underlying day rate helps you sense-check whether you're getting fair value.
Regional Day Rates (2026)
| Region | Day rate range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| London & SE | £320–£420 | Premium rates |
| South West & East | £270–£370 | Above-average |
| Midlands | £240–£330 | Mid-range |
| North West / Yorkshire | £220–£300 | Mid-range |
| North East & Wales | £200–£280 | Lower rates |
| Scotland (non-edinburgh) | £210–£290 | Below average |
What's Included
- Bricklayer's labour (single skilled tradesperson).
- Standard hand tools.
- Travel within reasonable radius (10–25 miles typically).
- Hi-vis, PPE.
What's NOT Included
- Materials (bricks, mortar, sand, cement, water).
- Labourer/helper.
- Scaffold, MEWP, or other access equipment.
- Skip hire / spoil removal.
- Specialist tools (cutting saw, mixer).
- Public liability insurance "per job".
Day Rate vs Project Rate
Most bricklayers quote per project — easier for them to estimate, easier for you to budget. Day rate is useful for:
- Small variable jobs (1–3 days work).
- Unforeseen extras during a project.
- Sense-checking large quotes (project cost / days = day rate; should align with above).
Labourer/Helper Rates
| Region | Labourer day rate |
|---|---|
| London | £170–£260 |
| Midlands | £140–£200 |
| North | £120–£170 |
Helper required for most jobs — bricklaying is a 2-person trade for efficiency.
How Many Days Does a Job Take?
- Garden wall 10m × 1.2m: 3–4 days.
- Chimney repoint with scaffold: 3–4 days bricklayer + 1 day scaffold.
- 30 m² wall repoint: 3–5 days.
- Single-storey extension brickwork: 10–15 days.
- Two-storey extension brickwork: 25–40 days.
UK Regulations
- VAT applicable on most jobs (20% above £85,000 turnover for VAT-registered).
- CIS deductions on subcontracted work.
Common Problems
- Unrealistic day quotes — under £150 in London signals corner-cutting.
- Hidden costs — quotes that include labour but exclude materials.
- Add-on fees — travel, lifting equipment, disposal.
- Slow workers — paid by day; incentive to drag out work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why so much regional variation?
Cost of living, labour scarcity in London. Bricklayers in Scotland often paid 30–40% less than London for same skills.
Why is bricklaying so expensive?
Skilled trade, demanding work, often outdoors, requires apprenticeship. Bricklayers earn what they're paid.
Can I negotiate day rates?
Sometimes — especially for ongoing relationship or simple work. Established bricklayers rarely negotiate.
What about Saturday/overtime?
Weekend rates typically 1.5×. Evening rates 1.25–1.5×. Most prefer weekday work.
Is hourly rate better?
Rare in UK bricklaying. Day rate (8 hours typical) is standard.
Day rate vs project rate — which is better?
Project rate transfers risk to bricklayer; day rate transfers risk to you. Project usually preferred unless scope is genuinely unknown.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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