Finding a trustworthy handyman in London isn’t hard — but knowing how much you should expect to pay can be confusing. Prices vary depending on the type of job, how long it takes, and even which borough you’re in. This guide breaks down average costs, explains what affects the price, and shows you how to get the best value when hiring a handyman in London.

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Average handyman rates in London

In most of London, handymen charge between £35 and £60 per hour. Some prefer hourly rates, while others offer fixed prices for specific jobs. Larger projects, such as refurbishments, are usually quoted individually.

Here’s a quick overview:

• Small jobs (under 1 hour): £40–£60
• Half-day rates (3–4 hours): £120–£180
• Full day rates (7–8 hours): £220–£300
• Emergency call-outs (evenings/weekends): £70–£100+ per hour

These are averages — the exact figure depends on the task and the handyman’s experience.

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Factors that affect handyman prices

Type of job

Not all handyman services are priced the same. A simple shelf fitting is much quicker than plumbing in a dishwasher or repairing electrics.

• DIY and furniture assembly: Usually the most affordable, around £35–£45 per hour.
• Plumbing jobs: £45–£60 per hour, depending on complexity.
• Electrical repairs: £50–£65 per hour, especially if safety testing is required.
• Painting and decorating: Often quoted per room or per square metre.

Duration and complexity

The longer and more complex the job, the higher the overall cost. Jobs requiring specialist tools or multiple visits usually cost more.

Emergency vs planned work

Evenings, weekends, and last-minute emergencies are charged at a premium — often double the standard hourly rate. If you can book in advance, you’ll save money.

Materials and parts

Labour is only part of the bill. If your handyman supplies materials (paint, fixtures, replacement parts), expect those to be added to the total. Some will let you buy your own to reduce costs.

Location

London prices are higher than the rest of the UK — and even within London, central areas often cost more than outer boroughs due to travel and parking.

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Typical costs for common handyman jobs in London

To give you a clearer idea, here’s what you might expect to pay for specific tasks:

• Flat-pack furniture assembly: £45–£70 for a medium wardrobe or bed frame
• Shelf or mirror hanging: £35–£50 per item (excluding materials)
• Blind and curtain pole installation: £40–£60 depending on size
• TV wall mounting: £60–£100 (brackets supplied by customer)
• Blocked sink or drain: £50–£80
• Toilet repair: £60–£90
• Extractor fan installation: £80–£120
• Room painting (average bedroom): £200–£350 including labour, excluding paint
• Bathroom installation (full refurb): £3,500–£6,000+ depending on finish
• Kitchen installation: £5,000–£10,000+ depending on size and spec

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Hourly rates vs fixed quotes

Many London handymen will offer both:

• Hourly rate: Best for small, simple jobs where the time is predictable.
• Fixed price quote: Best for larger projects where you want to know the total cost upfront.

At Dr HandyMan, we provide free, no-obligation quotes so you know exactly what to expect before we start.

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How to avoid hidden costs

It’s not just about the headline rate. Watch out for extra charges such as:

• Call-out fees — some handymen charge simply to visit.
• Parking charges and congestion zone fees — especially in central London.
• VAT — make sure the quote includes tax if applicable.
• Materials mark-up — ask if you can supply your own.

Tip: Always ask for a written quote and check what’s included before work begins.

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Are cheap handyman services worth it?

It’s tempting to go for the lowest price, but in London you often get what you pay for. A handyman charging far below market rate may be uninsured, inexperienced, or cut corners. Poor workmanship can end up costing you more to fix later.

Spending a little more on a reputable, insured professional gives you peace of mind and often better value in the long run.

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Handyman vs specialist tradesperson

Another cost consideration is whether you need a handyman or a specialist:

• Handyman: Ideal for small jobs, general repairs, and a wide variety of tasks.
• Specialist (plumber, electrician, carpenter): Needed for highly technical or regulated work, such as boiler servicing or full electrical rewiring.

For many household tasks, a handyman is faster, cheaper, and more convenient than calling in multiple specialists.

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Saving money with a handyman

Here are some tips to keep costs down:

1. Bundle jobs together. It’s cheaper to book a half-day and get several tasks done than to call separately for each one.
2. Prepare the space. Clear rooms and move furniture so time isn’t wasted.
3. Buy your own materials. Handymen are happy for you to supply paint, brackets, or fittings.
4. Book in advance. Avoid emergency premiums by planning jobs ahead.
5. Use a local handyman. Reduces travel time and potential parking costs.

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Handyman cost in London vs rest of the UK

For comparison, here are typical handyman rates across the UK:

• London: £35–£60 per hour
• South East: £30–£50 per hour
• Midlands: £25–£40 per hour
• North of England & Wales: £20–£35 per hour
• Scotland: £20–£35 per hour

London is the most expensive region, but also where skilled handymen are most in demand.

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Dr HandyMan pricing

At Dr HandyMan, we keep things simple:

• Clear hourly and day rates — no surprises
• Free, no-obligation quotes for all jobs
• Competitive pricing across London
• Emergency call-outs available when you need us most

📞 Call 07598 282186 today for a free quote, or [Book Your Handyman Online].

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Conclusion

So, how much does a handyman cost in London? Expect to pay £35–£60 per hour for most tasks, with fixed quotes available for bigger projects. Remember: the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Look for transparency, experience, and reliability.

With over 19 years in the trade, Dr HandyMan offers professional, friendly service across every London borough. Whether it’s a shelf, a sink, or a full refurbishment, we’ll get the job done right.

👉 [Book your handyman today] or call 07598 282186 for a free, no-obligation quote.