How to find and hire a carpenter

Carpenters shape and fit the wooden structures that hold our homes together. From building roof frames to laying solid timber floors, a good carpenter’s work is sturdy, precise and built to last. Here’s how to hire the right one for your project.

What does a carpenter do?

Carpenters typically focus on larger or structural woodwork, including:

• Roof trusses and joists
• Timber flooring and subfloors
• Stud walls and partitions
• Outdoor decking and timber framing
• Repairing or replacing load-bearing wooden structures

Joiners usually handle more detailed finishing work inside a home such as doors, skirting boards and fitted furniture. In practice many tradespeople offer both services, so you may see “carpenter and joiner” on their website and business literature.

When to hire a carpenter

• Building or repairing a timber structure
• Fitting or restoring real wood flooring
• Adding a stud wall or partition
• Installing outdoor decking or garden structures
• Any job that is structural and needs strength and durability

DIY or hire a pro?

Some carpentry looks straightforward in videos. In reality getting timber square, level and safe is a skill learned over years. Mistakes can lead to squeaky floors or wobbly walls, or worse, unsafe structures. Hiring a carpenter helps ensure the work is accurate and meets building standards.

How to find a good carpenter

• Word of mouth – ask neighbours, friends or family
• Online directories – Checkatrade, MyBuilder, Rated People
• Local groups – Facebook or Nextdoor
• Trade associations – the Institute of Carpenters

What to check before hiring

• Qualifications – NVQs in carpentry and joinery are common in the UK
• Experience – ask for photos of similar work
• References – speak to past customers if possible
• Insurance – public liability cover is essential
• Quotes – get at least three with labour and materials clearly listed
• Timescale – agree start date and duration

How much does a carpenter cost?

Costs vary by project size and location. Rough guides:

• Day rate: £150–£250
• Laying solid timber flooring: £20–£40 per m² (labour only)
• Building a stud wall: £150–£250 (labour only, materials extra)
• Decking installation: £70–£120 per m² (labour only)
• Roof joists or trusses: £1,500–£3,000+ for a full roof depending on size

Always get a detailed written quote before agreeing to the work.

Questions to ask a carpenter

When you first meet a carpenter it usually starts as a chat about the job. Most of what you need to know will come up naturally, but there are a few formal questions you should always ask directly, alongside the more casual ones.

Formal questions you should always ask

• Do you have public liability insurance?
• Will you give me a written quote with labour and materials broken down?
• Do you provide a receipt for payment?
• What is the payment schedule (for larger projects)?
• Do you guarantee your work, and if so for how long?
• What’s your expected start date and timescale?
• Will you supply the materials, or should I order them?
• Will you tidy up and take waste away afterwards?

Questions that usually come up in conversation

• How long have you been working as a carpenter?
• Have you done similar projects before, and can I see examples?
• What materials do you recommend for this job?
• Do you work alone or with a team?

Final thoughts

Hiring a carpenter is about more than getting a job done. It is about making sure your home is safe, solid and built to last. With the right carpenter you get craftsmanship you can rely on and peace of mind that the structure beneath your feet and above your head is sound.

Featured image by Los Muertos Crew