Construction Pay Rates UK 2026

Up-to-date salary and day rate information for construction roles across London and the South East.

London & M25 Construction Pay Rates

The following pay rates reflect current market conditions for construction roles across London and the M25 corridor as of Q2 2026. Rates vary based on experience, qualifications, project type, and client requirements. All rates shown are indicative and based on PAYE employment.

RoleDay RateHourly RateAnnual (Perm)
General Labourer (CSCS Green)£108 - £116£13.50 - £14.50£28,000 - £30,000
Skilled Labourer (CSCS Blue)£120 - £132£15.00 - £16.50£31,000 - £34,000
Traffic Marshal£104 - £112£13.00 - £14.00£27,000 - £29,000
Banksman / Slinger Signaller£112 - £124£14.00 - £15.50£29,000 - £32,000
Groundworker£128 - £144£16.00 - £18.00£33,000 - £37,000
Carpenter (1st Fix)£176 - £200£22.00 - £25.00£45,000 - £52,000
Carpenter (2nd Fix)£176 - £200£22.00 - £25.00£45,000 - £52,000
Bricklayer£200 - £240£25.00 - £30.00£52,000 - £62,000
Electrician (JIB Gold)£200 - £240£25.00 - £30.00£52,000 - £62,000
Plumber£190 - £230£23.75 - £28.75£49,000 - £60,000
Dryliner£180 - £220£22.50 - £27.50£46,000 - £57,000
Painter & Decorator£160 - £190£20.00 - £23.75£41,000 - £49,000
Site Supervisor (SSSTS)£180 - £220N/A£38,000 - £48,000
Site Manager (SMSTS)£220 - £280N/A£50,000 - £65,000
Quantity Surveyor£250 - £350N/A£45,000 - £65,000
Project Manager£300 - £400N/A£55,000 - £75,000

Important Notes

  • • Rates are indicative and based on London and M25 market conditions as of Q2 2026
  • • Actual pay depends on experience, qualifications, project type, and client requirements
  • • All Hard Hat placements are PAYE with holiday pay, pension, and full employment rights
  • • Overtime rates, weekend premiums, and shift allowances may apply

Market Insights

London's construction market continues to see strong demand for skilled operatives, particularly in groundworks, carpentry, and site management. Labour shortages in key trades are driving rates upward, with experienced tradespeople commanding premium day rates.

Professional and commercial roles including Quantity Surveyors and Project Managers remain in high demand, with experienced candidates able to command salaries at the upper end of the ranges shown above.