Work out your minimum day rate.

To work out your minimum day rate, add your desired take-home income to your annual business expenses, then divide by the number of billable days you expect to work per year. Allow for holidays, sick days, and non-billable admin time. A typical sole trader works around 220 billable days per year.

Your day rate should always be quoted excluding VAT. If you are VAT-registered, you add VAT on top when you invoice. If you are not VAT-registered (below the threshold), you charge no VAT and your day rate is the final price.

Most sole trader tradesmen work around 220 to 240 billable days per year. Allow for 4 to 6 weeks holiday, sick days, training, and non-billable time spent quoting, doing admin, and travelling. Overestimating billable days is one of the most common mistakes in setting a day rate.

Day rates for plumbers in Ireland typically range from €250 to €450 per day, depending on experience, specialisation, and location. Dublin and other cities command higher rates. Always quote ex-VAT and add 13.5% on top if you are VAT-registered.

Day rates for builders in the UK typically range from £200 to £400 per day, with experienced specialist builders in London and the South East charging £350 to £500 or more. General labourers typically earn £100 to £180 per day. Always quote ex-VAT if you are VAT-registered and add 20% on top.

Day rates for plumbers in the UK typically range from £220 to £400 per day, depending on experience and location. Gas Safe registered plumbers and those who work on commercial jobs can charge at the higher end. Add 20% VAT on top if you are VAT-registered.

Day rates for electricians in the UK typically range from £200 to £380 per day, with specialist electricians working on commercial or industrial sites commanding higher rates. EV charger installers and solar PV installers can charge a premium. Always quote ex-VAT and add 20% for VAT-registered work.