What Day Rate Should a Tradesman Charge?
Updated June 2026 · Estimates only — verify before quoting
Charging by the day is simple — but pick the wrong number and you either price yourself out of work or quietly lose money. Here is how to set a day rate that actually covers your costs and leaves a profit.
// Do the maths instantly
Day Rate Calculator
Find the day rate you need to cover costs and profit.
Open the Day Rate CalculatorWhy "what everyone else charges" is the wrong starting point
Your day rate has to cover far more than the hours on site. Build it up from your real numbers: the income you want, plus overheads (van, insurance, tools, fuel, accountant), divided by the days you can realistically bill in a year after holidays, illness and quoting time.
- Target annual take-home you want
- Annual overheads (van, fuel, insurance, tools, phone, software)
- Billable days per year (allow for holidays, sick days, admin)
- Add a profit margin on top — your business should earn, not just you
Work it out in seconds
The Day Rate Calculator below takes your target earnings, overheads and billable days and tells you the day rate you need to charge. Pair it with the estimator to turn day rates into full branded quotes.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate my day rate?
Add your target earnings and annual overheads, then divide by your realistic billable days per year, and add a profit margin. The calculator below does this for you.
What is the average tradesman day rate in the UK?
It varies widely by trade and region, but the right number for you is the one that covers your overheads and leaves a profit — not just the local average.
From estimate to winning quote
TradesMate Pro turns these numbers into branded, professional quotes and invoices — plus live job profit tracking. Free calculators forever; start a free trial for the full kit.