Cost Guides
Understand what affects the price of local jobs before requesting a quote. Our detailed UK cost guides are being prepared.
Explore the Hive
Quick questions
Are these fixed prices?
No. Actual prices depend on the job, location, materials, timing and individual professional.
When will cost guides be available?
We are preparing researched, trade-specific guides. Until then, ask professionals for a written quote before agreeing work.
Client Hive serves the UK, including Northern Ireland. Professional registration is open nationally; local customer enquiries are being introduced in stages.
Plan your project budget
Our UK cost guide library is being developed. Explore the main factors affecting project prices, including materials, labour, travel, access, urgency and VAT.
Popular cost guide topics
- Plumbing and electrical repairs
- Painting and decorating
- Roof repairs and building work
- Domestic cleaning and gardening
- Removals, pet care and tutoring
How do I compare quotes?
Check that each quote covers the same work, materials, VAT, waste removal and timescale. Agree the scope in writing.
Are these fixed UK prices?
No. Costs vary by location, job size and professional. We will publish researched trade-specific guides progressively.
How are local trade jobs priced?
Different work calls for different ways of quoting. A fair comparison starts with the job specification: what needs doing, the measurements, who supplies materials, how soon the work is needed and what access is available.
| Pricing basis | Common applications | What to provide |
|---|---|---|
| Per hour | Repairs, maintenance, gardening, cleaning | Description, likely time needed and travel/access considerations |
| Per day | Longer labour-only projects | Scope, number of days and whether materials are ready |
| Per square metre (m²) | Painting, plastering, tiling, flooring, paving | Estimated area and condition of the surface |
| Per square foot (sq ft) | Alternative area measure when supplied by the customer | Area measured in sq ft (the Worker Bee may convert to m²) |
| Per linear metre | Fencing, skirting boards, pipework and edging | Length, fittings, materials and obstacles |
| Fixed price | Clearly defined repairs, installations and projects | Exact scope, photographs and known exclusions |
Materials supplied or labour only?
Tell the Worker Bee whether you already have materials, have some materials, need them supplied or are unsure. For labour-only quotes, specify the items supplied and check who is responsible for shortages or unsuitable parts. For labour-and-materials quotes, ask for the materials allowance and any exclusions to be clearly stated.
Frequently asked questions about job quotes
How do I request a painting quote per square metre?
Share the approximate area in m², the surface condition, location, access, number of coats if known and whether the paint is already purchased. Ask the decorator to confirm which preparation work is included.
Can I ask for a quote per square foot?
Yes. You can share your measurements in square feet, although many UK trades use square metres. State the unit clearly so prices are comparable.
Can I request labour only if I already bought the materials?
Yes. Explain which materials you have and ask the tradesperson whether they are suitable, complete and covered by the proposed price.
Is an hourly estimate the same as a fixed-price quote?
No. Hourly pricing generally depends on the time worked; a fixed quote covers an agreed scope of work. Ask the professional how additional work and unforeseen complications are handled.
What if I do not know the measurements or budget?
Use a rough estimate where possible and say you are unsure. A Worker Bee may need photographs, a video call or a site visit before providing a firm quote.