I'm working for builders alot at the mo at reduced day rates...still getting fair bit of work in but beaten on price alot, currently charging apprx £200 a day (Exeter to Bristol)...don't mind working cheaper for builders when i don't have to take any responsibility on for the job.
Had a chippie come round to ours the other day did an amazing job installing a loft hatch...removed old frame...new doors built by joiner...planed and installed new doors...installed brass hinges....made new frame...put in latches...took him 2 days charged 175 all in. Can't compete against that.
Spoke to my friend the other day just had her house completely replastered 3 bed semi, new kitchen installed, fully decorated, bathroom re tiled...pukka job...the guy who did it was working for 50 a day...total labour cost £3300. 7 months it took him over weekend etc.
I just don't know why people do it to themselves and to other tradesman?
I wonder what effect modern technology is having on prices tradesman without the machines surely can't compete these days...I know i've lost alot of renders to guys with machines who knock a whole house out in a week at reduced price with a better quality product...I lost a job the other day a plumber m8 of mine had a friend who wanted some skimming done one large room and a wall priced 2 days plus materials apprx 320 (m8s r8s) another plasterer comes in and charges 180 does the lot in a day with a freaking sponge float i mean wtf?
rant over!