Setting Out Engineer Day Rates 2025
In London and the UK, setting out engineer day rates in 2025 typically range from £350–£500/day, with London rates at the higher end.
| Service Type | UK Average Day Rate | London Day Rate (ex VAT) | | --- | --- | --- | | Setting Out Engineer (freelance) | £250–£400/day | £350–£450/day | | Site Engineer (contract) | £514 median | £525–£650/day | | Land Surveyor (setting out) | £300–£650/day | £350–£1,000/day | | General Builder | £150–£400/day | £400+ |
What's Included in Setting Out Rates
- Fully calibrated equipment (total station, laser level, tripod)
- Gridlines, benchmarks, levels, and as-built checks
- Services for groundworks, drainage, RC frames, steel frames
- Travel within Greater London usually included
- QA documentation and as-built records for building control
Factors Affecting Price
| Factor | Impact on Cost | | --- | --- | | Project complexity | RC frames/steel structures: £395–£450/day | | Duration | Multi-plot/long-term: discounts available | | Timing | Night/weekend: premium rates | | Location | London adds 15–25% vs. UK average |
Project-Based Estimates
| Project Type | Typical Duration | Estimated Cost (ex VAT) | | --- | --- | --- | | House extension foundations | 0.5–1 day | £175–£400 | | Full house new build | 2–4 days | £700–£1,800 | | Drainage and manholes | 1–2 days | £350–£800 | | RC frame (multi-storey) | 3–7+ days | £1,200–£3,500+ | | Multi-plot development | Ongoing | Discounted rates |
Booking Tips
- Book a few days in advance for best availability
- Provide CAD/PDF drawings and coordinates beforehand
- Small jobs (extensions) often complete in 1 day; larger projects need ongoing visits
For a typical London house extension or small commercial project, budget £350–£400 per day. For complex multi-storey RC frames, expect £400–£450/day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does a setting-out engineer day rate include?
Day rates typically include the engineer, fully calibrated equipment (total station, laser level), travel within Greater London, and as-built documentation. Confirm exact inclusions when booking.
Q: Can I get half-day rates?
Some engineers offer half-day rates for small jobs. Contact us to discuss your project scope.
Q: How do I budget for setting-out on a larger project?
For multi-visit projects, discuss a fixed price or contract rate with your setting-out engineer. Multi-plot or long-term attendance typically qualifies for discounted rates.