How Much Do Plumbers Earn?

Explore what plumbers earn in the UK, training paths, qualifications needed, career levels, and top companies to work for in the trade.

How Much Do Plumbers Earn? Salary, Career & Training Guide (UK)

Plumbing is one of the most essential and in-demand trades in the UK. From fixing leaks to installing entire heating systems, plumbers are the backbone of domestic and commercial infrastructure. The job can be physically demanding, but it also offers great pay, job security, and a clear path to self-employment or business ownership.

Here’s everything you need to know about how much plumbers earn, what qualifications you need, specialisations, and the best employers in the industry.

Job Description: What Do Plumbers Do?

Plumbers install, maintain and repair water, heating and drainage systems. They may work on domestic, commercial or industrial properties.

Typical responsibilities:

  • Fitting and repairing pipes, taps, toilets, radiators and showers

  • Installing boilers, hot water cylinders, and underfloor heating

  • Diagnosing and fixing leaks and blockages

  • Connecting appliances (washing machines, dishwashers)

  • Installing bathrooms, heating systems or extensions

  • Ensuring compliance with water and gas safety regulations

  • Emergency call-outs for burst pipes or heating issues

How Hard Is It to Become a Plumber?

It’s not academically difficult, but it’s a skilled and practical trade. You’ll need to learn the theory and apply it hands-on. Most plumbers qualify through apprenticeships or college-based training with 2–4 years of experience before working fully independently.

Traits and Characteristics You Need

  • Problem-solving skills, especially for faults and blockages

  • Good physical fitness – heavy lifting and confined spaces

  • Customer service and communication, especially in homes

  • Attention to detail – accuracy matters in measurements and installations

  • Maths and mechanical aptitude

  • Time management, especially if self-employed

Do You Need Qualifications?

Yes. To legally work as a plumber and join recognised bodies like Gas Safe or CIPHE, you’ll need specific vocational qualifications.

Common training routes:

  • NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Plumbing and Heating (City & Guilds or EAL)

  • Apprenticeship in Plumbing and Domestic Heating (3–4 years)

  • Gas Safe Registration (if working on boilers or gas systems)

  • WRAS Water Regulations Certificate

  • Unvented Hot Water Storage Systems Certificate

Training can be full-time (college) or part-time while working. Fast-track private courses exist, but real-world experience is key.

Career Levels and Specialisations

Apprentice / Trainee - Learning on the job, NVQ Level 2

Qualified Plumber - Independent, NVQ Level 3

Gas Engineer - Works on boilers and heating systems

Heating Engineer - Focuses on radiators, underfloor, and hot water

Bathroom Fitter / Installer - Specialises in high-end refurbishments

Drainage Engineer - Focus on unblocking and sewer lines

Senior Engineer / Supervisor - Leads a team or runs projects

Business Owner / Contractor - Runs own plumbing firm

What Experience Do You Need?

  • 1–2 years on-site experience for Level 2

  • 3–4 years to become fully qualified with Level 3 and Gas Safe

  • Site-based experience is usually gained during an apprenticeship

  • Working under experienced plumbers is vital early on

  • Experience with new builds, renovation and emergency call-outs helps build confidence

Benefits of Being a Plumber

  • Strong earning potential, even at mid-level

  • Always in demand, year-round work

  • Flexible career path – employed or self-employed

  • Ability to work solo or build a team

  • Minimal paperwork compared to other industries

  • Fast track to financial independence with business ownership

  • Job satisfaction from fixing problems and helping people

Drawbacks and Negatives

  • Physically hard work, including awkward spaces and long days

  • Messy at times – leaks, blockages, outdoor work

  • Early starts and emergency call-outs

  • Upfront costs for tools, van, and certification

  • Repetitive strain (knees, back, hands) over time

  • Ongoing training needed to stay compliant (Gas Safe etc.)

Plumber Salary Levels in the UK

Apprentice / Trainee - £12,000 – £18,000

Newly Qualified (NVQ2) - £20,000 – £26,000

Experienced Plumber (NVQ3) - £28,000 – £40,000

Gas Safe Registered - £35,000 – £50,000+

Self-Employed / Contractor - £50,000 – £100,000+

Tax Example:

A self-employed plumber earning £60,000/year would pay:

  • Income Tax: ~£9,432

  • National Insurance (Class 2 & 4): ~£4,149

  • Take-home pay: ~£46,400/year or £890/week

Expenses (tools, van, fuel, insurance) reduce taxable income significantly.

What Factors Affect Salary?

  • Location – London and the South East offer higher rates

  • Experience and certification – Gas Safe, unvented systems, etc.

  • Specialisation – emergency response, heating, renewables

  • Self-employment – can boost earnings but requires business skills

  • Client type – residential vs commercial

  • Work volume and scheduling – more hours = more income

What’s the Future for This Role?

Very strong. With ongoing housing development and the push for eco-friendly heating, plumbers are well-positioned to adapt and thrive.

Emerging trends include:

  • Heat pump installation and green heating systems

  • Smart home plumbing – smart boilers, leak detection tech

  • Water-saving and sustainability compliance

  • Retrofit schemes – government support for energy-efficient upgrades

  • EV charger and utility integration (if multi-skilled)

Best Companies to Work for in the UK Plumbing Industry

British Gas - High standards and benefits (Gas + Heat)

Dyno Plumbing - Emergency and commercial plumbing

Homeserve - Property maintenance plans and repairs

Local councils and housing associations - Public sector stability

BOXT / Heatable - Digital boiler installation firms

Worcester Bosch / Vaillant certified installers - Manufacturer-backed jobs

Rated People / Checkatrade / MyBuilder - Freelance and lead generation

Self-employed - Highest earnings, full flexibility

Final Thought

Plumbing offers one of the most practical and profitable career routes without needing a degree. With experience and a strong reputation, plumbers can build a solid income and even grow their own business. It’s a trade with job security, a clear training path, and constant demand.