Plumbing costs vary "massively" says Which?

1st September, 2005

Calling out a plumber can be a risky business, reveals a new survey today, as costs vary around the UK.

Which? magazine says that hourly rates for a plumber varied from £9 for one firm in Wales to £130 in the south-east.

The expensive nature of calling out a plumber reinforces the need for home insurance.

If a tap were to burst, water would flood around the home, ruining carpets, furniture and possessions, and buildings and contents cover would help to repair the damage done by the water.

Reputable home insurance companies can also recommend the name of a plumber who is not likely to charge extortionate rates for work, and will do the job properly.

Carol Cannavan,a spokeswoman for the Institute of Plumbers and Heating Engineering (IPHE), advised anyone who was thinking of calling a plumber to shop around for quotes before committing to the job.

Which? found that the average rate was between £30 and £50 for the first hour, with subsequent hours costing between £25 and £40.

 

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