How much does a carpenter charge per day in the UK?

A skilled carpenter or joiner in the UK typically charges £180–£300 per day. Specialist and master carpenters can charge £300–£500 per day. Rates are 20–30% higher in London and the South East. Always get itemised quotes separating labour from materials.

What is the difference between a carpenter and a joiner?

A joiner works primarily in a workshop, making windows, doors, staircases, and fitted furniture. A carpenter installs these items on site. In practice, many tradespeople do both and use the terms interchangeably. For bespoke fitted furniture or staircases, look for a cabinet maker or joiner with a portfolio of similar work.

How much does bespoke fitted furniture cost in the UK?

Bespoke fitted wardrobes or alcove shelving typically cost £500–£2,000 depending on size, wood type, and complexity. A basic alcove unit with shelves and cupboards costs around £500–£800. A full wall of floor-to-ceiling fitted wardrobes with internal fittings can reach £1,500–£3,000.

How Much Does a Carpenter Cost UK 2026?

Average carpenter costs, day rates, and typical project prices.

Note: Prices are estimates. Always get multiple written quotes.

Average Day Rates

Type of Carpenter	Day Rate
1st Fix Carpenter	£150-£250
2nd Fix/Joiner	£180-£300
Specialist Carpenter	£250-£400
Master Carpenter	£300-£500

Common Jobs & Typical Costs

Job	Average Cost	Time
Bespoke shelving	£200-£500	4-8 hours
Wardrobe installation	£150-£400	4-8 hours
Door hanging	£50-£100	1-2 hours
Skirting & architrave	£150-£300	1-2 days
Stairs installation	£1,000-£3,000	2-5 days
Garden decking	£500-£1,500	1-3 days
Fitted furniture	£500-£2,000	2-5 days
Roof trusses	£1,000-£3,000	2-4 days

1st Fix vs 2nd Fix

1st Fix: Structural work - stud walls, roof trusses, floor joists. Usually done before plastering.

2nd Fix: Finishing work - doors, skirting, fitted furniture. Done after plastering.

1st Fix vs 2nd Fix: What's the Difference?

Understanding the difference helps you hire the right person for the right stage of your build:

1st Fix Carpentry — Structural and hidden work carried out before plastering. This includes timber stud walls, floor joists, roof trusses, door frames, and boxing-in of pipes. The focus is on structural integrity and Building Regulations compliance rather than aesthetics.
2nd Fix Carpentry — Finishing work carried out after plastering and decorating. This includes hanging doors, fitting skirting boards, architrave, stair banisters, fitted furniture, and window boards. Precision and finish quality are paramount at this stage.

Many carpenters cover both stages, but specialist joiners and cabinet makers are often brought in for bespoke 2nd fix and furniture work.

Finding a Good Carpenter

There is no mandatory licensing for carpenters in the UK, so quality can vary significantly. Here's how to find a skilled professional:

Review their portfolio — Ask to see photos or visit examples of completed work similar to your project. Bespoke work especially benefits from seeing previous results in person.
Verify qualifications — Look for NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Carpentry and Joinery, or a City & Guilds equivalent. A CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card is standard for those working on building sites.
Get detailed, itemised quotes — Ensure quotes separate labour costs from materials. Specify the wood type and grade, as prices vary significantly between softwood (pine, spruce) and hardwood (oak, ash).
Ask about workmanship guarantees — Reputable carpenters will stand behind their work. A 12-month guarantee on labour is a reasonable expectation.
Check insurance — Public liability insurance is essential, particularly if work is carried out in your home or involves structural elements.

Find a Carpenter Near You

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Popular: Maidstone · Faversham · Tonbridge

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Disclaimer: Average figures only. Always get written quotes specific to your project. NearbyTraders provides directory information only — always verify qualifications and insurance directly.