A survey from Buildstore has found rising contractor rates are leading many people to do the work themselves.
According to the research, competition for tradesmen and construction professionals is fiercer than ever, with the average daily rate for plumbers standing at £227 and for bricklayers £173.

However, the rates vary across the country.

Those living in London and the south-east of England were found to be facing the highest increases in tradesmen fees (£295 in the capital), while those in the north-west and north-east face the lowest (£170 and £173 respectively).

In addition, of the 500 groundworkers, roofers, carpenters, electricians, plasterers and decorators polled, a significant majority said that they have put their prices up over recent months.