Where can I find one and how do I choose one?

It can be difficult to find a reliable and honest plasterer – especially in London.

Of course, plasterers advertise in the Yellow Pages but the problem with this is you will have no idea of how reliable, professional, and expensive the company is before you deal with them.

The best thing to do is to ask people you trust, who live in the same area as you, who they use. Neighbours are always a good source of information!

Always check that a plasterer has up to date insurance, covering him for any damage that might be caused to your property.

As well as this, it is a good idea to check that a firm has a permanent HQ, with a listed phone number and street address so that you know they are not going to disappear after they have completed your job.

What qualifications/accreditations should you look for?

It is important to use a properly qualified plasterer to ensure that their techniques and knowledge are top-notch.

Qualifications vary, but a newly qualified plasterer should have either an NVQ in Plastering at levels 1, 2, or 3 (where 3 is the best) or a level 3 SVQ in Plastering.

In addition to this, a plasterer working on a construction site will need to have a CSCS (a construction skills certification scheme card). This indicates that the holder has been adequately trained in health and safety techniques and is a competent practitioner.

Several older plasters, however, will have trained through an apprentice scheme before the relatively recent qualifications were introduced. In such a case, a plasterer should have many years of experience and good recommendations from previous customers.

Cost

Unfortunately, there is no standard hourly or job-specific rate when dealing with plasterers. The cost will often be split into two components: labour rate and cost of materials. Some plasterers will charge a job fee, which might be better value – with a daily rate, there is no incentive for them to finish the job quickly.

Prices will vary massively depending on where you are in the country, the plasterer's own overheads (such as hiring help or materials), and the plasterer's level of experience. A typical daily labour rate is anywhere between £150-250.

London and the South East are the most expensive areas in the country with the North and the Midlands representing far better value. It is very important to get multiple quotes as prices can vary wildly. It is recommended that you obtain at least 3 estimates.

As well as this, you should always get a written estimate with a breakdown of where the costs are before hiring a plasterer for a big job. The final price should not deviate greatly from this guide price (provided no unforeseen problems surface).