Plumber & Electrician Salary UK 2026
UK plumber and electrician salaries for 2026. Self-employed vs employed rates, apprentice pay, and how much experienced tradespeople earn.
UK Trades Salaries 2026
| Grade / Level | Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plumber (employed, junior) | £28,000–£35,000 | Newly qualified |
| Plumber (employed, experienced) | £35,000–£50,000 | 5+ years experience |
| Plumber (self-employed) | £40,000–£70,000+ | Varies hugely by area/hours |
| Electrician (employed, junior) | £26,000–£32,000 | Newly qualified |
| Electrician (employed, experienced) | £35,000–£55,000 | 5+ years experience |
| Electrician (self-employed) | £40,000–£65,000+ | Varies by area/hours |
| Gas Engineer (employed) | £32,000–£48,000 | Gas Safe registered |
| Gas Engineer (self-employed) | £45,000–£75,000+ | High demand role |
| Plumbing/Electrical Apprentice | £7.55–£15,000 | First year apprentice rate |
| Heating Engineer (HVAC) | £35,000–£55,000 | Includes heat pump specialists |
Figures are estimates based on ONS ASHE data, sector surveys and advertised salaries. Individual salaries will vary.
About Plumber & Electrician Salary Pay
Plumbers and electricians are among the most in-demand tradespeople in the UK. There is a well-documented skills shortage, particularly for qualified gas engineers and electricians with EV charging installation qualifications.
Self-employed tradespeople often earn significantly more than employed equivalents, though they do not receive holiday pay, sick pay or employer pension contributions. A busy self-employed London plumber can earn £60,000-£80,000+.
The push for heat pump installations under the UK's net zero agenda is creating new demand for plumbers and heating engineers with air source and ground source heat pump qualifications. These specialists can command a significant premium over standard plumbing rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do plumbers earn in the UK?
Employed plumbers in the UK earn £28,000-£50,000 depending on experience. Self-employed plumbers typically earn more — £40,000-£70,000+ — depending on location, hours worked and specialisms. Emergency/out-of-hours plumbing can command rates of £80-£150 per hour.
How much do electricians earn?
Qualified electricians in the UK earn £26,000-£55,000 when employed. Self-employed electricians typically earn £40,000-£65,000+. Specialists in EV charging installation and commercial electrical work are particularly well-paid. Electricians in London can earn significantly above the national average.
Is plumbing a good career in the UK?
Yes — plumbing is consistently one of the UK's most in-demand trades. The combination of skills shortage, essential nature of the work and the growing heat pump market makes plumbing a strong career choice. Experienced plumbers often out-earn many graduate-level professionals.