What UK bricklayers charge, and why a day rate is not the whole cost of a wall.
Applies to: UK homeowners; published national estimates, not local quotes.
Last checked: 16 October 2026
Key points
• Checkatrade's October 2026 trade-rate guide lists bricklayer labour at about £250–£350 per day.
• Small jobs can cost more per day in practice once travel, setup and minimum charges are allowed for.
• Ask whether labourers, bricks, mortar, delivery, foundations, scaffolding, waste and VAT are included.
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2026 labour benchmark
Checkatrade's October 2026 UK benchmark gives bricklayers a typical day-rate range of £250–£350 and an hourly guide of £35–£45. These are market estimates rather than BuildPair prices; London, the South East and specialist work can cost more.
What changes the final quote
• New work versus repointing, repairs or taking down unsafe walls.
• Foundation design, ground conditions and drainage.
• Labourer or team size, access, scaffold and waste removal.
• Matching bricks, delivery, mortar and VAT where applicable.
Day rate or job price?
For a defined wall, compare written quotes for the complete finished work. A bricklayer's day rate alone does not tell you how many days are required or whether the materials, preparation and making good are included.
Further sources
Additional published guidance and research used in this article.
Pricing methodology
BuildPair reviews current UK market pricing references when preparing cost guides. Published figures are budgeting ranges, not BuildPair quotes or guaranteed local prices. Compare current local quotes before appointing a tradesperson.
BuildPair provides general information and signposting, not legal, structural, electrical, gas or building-control approval. Requirements can change and the right answer depends on the work, contract, location and facts.
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