Carpenter and joiner rates vary based on your location and what the job is. Smaller jobs like hanging a door may be charged hourly, while large jobs like building bespoke cabinets and installing them may be charged at a fixed rate or a day rate.

Our database of UK carpenters' and joiners’ hourly and daily rates helps you estimate how much you’ll pay for a carpentry or joinery job. Find out the latest average rates from across the UK below.

Carpenter and joiner hourly rate

Carpenters or joiners will usually charge an hourly rate for jobs that will take less than a day, such as hanging a door or installing skirting boards in a small room. The average hourly rate for a carpenter or joiner is £27, but you may pay more or less than this depending on where you live. For example, the cheapest hourly carpenter rate is £20 in Belfast, while the highest rate is £36 in London.

Carpenter and joiner day rate

For larger jobs, such as making and installing bespoke understairs storage or a media unit, you’ll probably be charged a day rate. The average day rate is £198, while the lowest is £135 (Lisburn) and the highest is £256 (Perth & Kinross).

Take a look at our UK carpenter and joiner rates table to get a more accurate idea of hourly and daily rates in your area. HaMuch has members across the country who display their rates so you can see how much they charge before you make contact with them.

Rates for common carpentry and joinery jobs

Fit skirting boards, door frames and architrave

Average rate: £27 per hour

Average time: 4 hours for one room

Average material cost: £280

You’ll usually pay an average of £27 per hour to have skirting boards, architraves and door frames fitted in one room. Materials may cost up to £280 depending on the size of your room. If you need more than one room fitted, you may find that the cost per metre reduces.

Build under stairs storage

Average rate: £200 per day

Average time: 5 days

Average material cost: £700

Bespoke under stairs storage may feel like a luxury, but you’ll make the most of every inch of space available. You’ll usually pay around £1,000 in labour and £700 in materials for mid-range engineered wood in a standard 3-cupboard under stairs unit.

New staircase and bannister

Average rate: £200 per day

Average time: 7 days

Average material cost: £2,000

The cost of a new staircase and bannister will vary hugely depending on the type of staircase you want and how many storeys it is. A staircase for one storey with bannisters will set you back around £1,400 in labour and £2,000 in materials.

Your checklist for finding and comparing carpenter and joiner rates

1. Consider independents

As with many other trades, independent carpenters and joiners often bring the same level of expertise as those working for larger companies, but can usually offer more competitive rates due to lower overheads, while still delivering high-quality workmanship. Independent tradespeople often specialise in custom jobs, giving you personalised service and attention to detail. 

Don't be deterred by lower prices; many independent carpenters and joiners have years of experience that allow them to deliver excellent results at a fraction of the cost of larger firms. That being said, it’s important to do your research carefully before deciding who to choose for your project.

2. Research reviews and get recommendations

Online reviews are an excellent resource for evaluating a carpenter or joiner's reliability, attention to detail and quality of service. Look for feedback across multiple platforms, such as Trustpilot, Google Reviews, or specialist trade websites like HaMuch to get a rounded view. If you have friends, family or neighbours who have recently had work done, ask for their recommendations.

For larger or more intricate projects, such as bespoke cabinetry, shelving, or staircases, ask the carpenter or joiner to show you before and after photos of similar jobs. This will give you insight into their style and level of craftsmanship.

3. Verify qualifications, experience and insurance

While there are no mandatory qualifications for carpenters and joiners, it’s a good idea to choose someone with formal training, especially for more complex projects. Many professionals will have completed apprenticeships or hold NVQs in carpentry and joinery, which ensures they have a solid foundation in the trade. Experience is particularly important for specialised tasks like creating custom furniture or fitting intricate woodwork. An experienced joiner will be better at troubleshooting and delivering a high standard of work.

Additionally, ensure your carpenter or joiner has appropriate insurance, such as public liability insurance. This will protect you in case of any accidental damage to your property or injuries that occur during the job.

4. Clarify what’s included in the quote

When you get a quote from a carpenter or joiner, make sure to understand what’s included. Some quotes may cover labour only, while others might include materials as well. For example, if you're having built-in furniture made, find out if the quote includes the cost of the wood, finishes and any hardware such as hinges or drawer pulls.

If you prefer to source your own materials, consult with the carpenter or joiner first. They may have recommendations on the best types of wood or suppliers where you can purchase at trade prices. Many joiners have preferred materials that they trust for quality and durability, so asking their opinion can ensure your project stands the test of time. They may also only offer a warranty on materials they have approved.

5. Confirm payment terms

Before work begins, clarify the payment terms. For large custom projects, carpenters and joiners may require a deposit upfront, with the remainder paid upon completion. For smaller tasks, payment is often due in full once the work is finished.

Check whether the carpenter or joiner is VAT registered and if the quote includes VAT. Always request a written quote to avoid any potential misunderstandings during or after the project.

If you want to pay by card or bank transfer, confirm that your carpenter or joiner accepts these payment methods. Be cautious of tradespeople who only accept cash, and always ask for a receipt to document your payments.

6. Compare multiple quotes

It’s always a good idea to get at least three quotes from different carpenters or joiners. This allows you to compare prices, timelines and the scope of services offered. While it may be tempting to go with the cheapest option, bear in mind that a significantly lower quote may indicate a lack of experience or ineffective materials.

It’s essential to balance cost with quality when selecting your carpenter or joiner. Always check their references and read reviews to ensure they have a strong track record of delivering high-quality work.

How to prepare for your carpenter or joiner's visit

• Organise parking: If your carpenter or joiner needs a parking permit or special arrangements to park near your property, make sure you have this organised in advance. If parking is limited, arrange for a space close to your home to avoid unnecessary delays.

• Clear the workspace: Before your carpenter or joiner arrives, clear the area where they will be working. Remove any furniture, valuables or fragile items that could be in the way or at risk of damage. If moving larger furniture isn’t feasible, discuss this with your carpenter or joiner beforehand. They may bring protective covers to ensure nothing is scratched or damaged during the work.

• Provide detailed information: When your carpenter or joiner arrives, provide them with a clear and detailed explanation of the job. Whether it’s constructing bespoke furniture or repairing existing woodwork, the more information they have, the more efficiently they can work. Mention any specific design preferences, materials or finishes you have in mind. Providing accurate measurements and specifications can also help prevent any delays.

• Finalise your materials: If you’re providing the materials for the job, ensure they are ready and available before the carpenter or joiner arrives. If you’re uncertain about what’s required, consult with the carpenter or joiner beforehand; they may be able to recommend the best materials or provide a list of what you need to source. Having everything prepared will save time and ensure the project stays on track.

• Be prepared for disruption: Depending on the scope of the work, carpentry and joinery can be noisy and may involve sawdust or debris, so be prepared for some disruption. If necessary, cover nearby furniture or belongings to protect them from dust. You may also want to plan around the work, avoiding high-traffic areas during peak work times to minimise any inconvenience.

By following these steps, you can ensure your carpenter or joiner has everything they need to complete your project efficiently and with minimal disruption. 

Ready to find a carpenter or joiner for your job? Post your project on HaMuch now and connect with reliable professionals in your area.

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