When you think of a plumber, a skilled tradesperson who installs and repairs water systems, gas lines, and drainage in homes and buildings. Also known as a pipefitter, they’re the ones who fix leaks, install boilers, and keep your home running—no matter the hour. But how much do they actually make? It’s not just about turning wrenches. A plumber salary in the UK depends on experience, location, specialization, and whether they work for a company or run their own business.
Entry-level plumbers often start around £20,000 to £25,000 a year. That’s not bad for someone who learned on the job, not in a classroom. But after five years, many hit £30,000 to £40,000. The best? Those with years of experience, emergency call-out services, or niche skills like gas safety certification or underfloor heating installation can clear £50,000 or more. In London and the Southeast, pay is higher—not just because of the cost of living, but because demand outpaces supply. A plumber who shows up at 2 a.m. for a burst pipe doesn’t just fix a pipe—they earn overtime, call-out fees, and trust. And trust gets you repeat customers, referrals, and eventually, your own business.
It’s not just about hourly rates. A plumbing contractor, a self-employed plumber who manages jobs, hires helpers, and handles client contracts. Also known as a master plumber, they often earn more than employees because they keep the profits after expenses. But they also carry the weight of insurance, van costs, tools, and admin. Meanwhile, a commercial plumber, someone who works on offices, hospitals, or retail spaces instead of homes. Also known as a industrial plumber, they typically earn more due to larger projects and stricter regulations. And let’s not forget the rise of eco-friendly plumbing—solar water heating, water recycling systems, smart leak detectors. Plumbers who learn these new skills aren’t just keeping up—they’re getting paid more for it.
What you won’t find in most job ads is how much of this job is about problem-solving, not just pipes. A good plumber reads signs—like a slow drain or a hissing pipe—before they turn into disasters. They know when to call an electrician, when to check the boiler, and when to tell a customer they need a whole new system. That kind of judgment? That’s worth more than any hourly rate.
So if you’re thinking about becoming a plumber—or hiring one—know this: the pay reflects the skill, the responsibility, and the hours. It’s not a nine-to-five job. But for those who show up, learn fast, and treat every job like their reputation depends on it? The money follows.
Below, you’ll find real insights from people who’ve been in the trenches—what they earn, what trips them up, and what actually moves the needle on their pay.
