Bricklayer Salary UK 2026 — Day Rates, CIS & Regional Breakdown
Bricklayers are among the most in-demand and hardest-to-find tradespeople in the UK. Demand from housebuilders, commercial developers, and refurbishment contractors consistently outstrips the available supply — which has pushed rates significantly above many other construction trades. Whether you are a bricklayer assessing your current earnings or a contractor benchmarking pay, this guide covers realistic 2026 rates across the UK.
Bricklayer Pay Rates by Region — 2026
| Region / Scenario | Day Rate (CIS / Contract) | Weekly Earnings (est.) | Perm Salary (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| London (Zone 1–2) | £290–£350 | £1,450–£1,750 | £52,000–£65,000 |
| London (Outer / M25) | £260–£310 | £1,300–£1,550 | £47,000–£56,000 |
| South East (Essex, Kent, Surrey, Herts) | £240–£290 | £1,200–£1,450 | £44,000–£52,000 |
| Midlands (Birmingham, Nottingham, Leicester) | £220–£270 | £1,100–£1,350 | £40,000–£48,000 |
| North West (Manchester, Liverpool) | £215–£265 | £1,075–£1,325 | £39,000–£47,000 |
| Yorkshire (Leeds, Sheffield) | £210–£255 | £1,050–£1,275 | £38,000–£46,000 |
Rates are market estimates for 2026 based on industry data. Actual rates vary by experience, project type, and client. Contact Phoenix Gray for current live rates in your area.
How Bricklayers Are Paid
CIS (Construction Industry Scheme)
The most common payment method for self-employed bricklayers — you are paid gross and deduct 20% tax at source (or 30% if not registered). You invoice the agency or contractor weekly and manage your own tax return.
PAYE (Employed)
Tax and National Insurance deducted at source. Less take-home than CIS on the same gross rate, but includes holiday pay accrual and other employment protections. Common for directly employed permanent bricklayers.
Umbrella Company
An umbrella company employs you and charges the agency. You receive employed status with PAYE deductions, but with an umbrella margin taken. Simpler admin than CIS but typically lower take-home.
What Affects a Bricklayer's Pay?
- CSCS Blue Card (Skilled Worker) vs CSCS Gold Card — Gold Card holders typically command 5–10% more
- Ability to set work (independent fixing) vs simply lay to others' line — setters earn significantly more
- Pointing and repointing skills — additional specialist demand
- Experience on large commercial or housebuilding programmes
- Location — London and South East rates consistently 20–30% above national average
- CIS self-employment status vs PAYE — CIS typically yields higher take-home at equivalent gross
Qualifications for Bricklayers
- CSCS Blue Card (Skilled Worker) — minimum for most sites
- CSCS Gold Card (Advanced Craft) — for experienced bricklayers
- NVQ Level 2/3 Bricklaying
- CITB Site Safety Plus (advantageous)
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Frequently Asked Questions
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