The short answer
"No call-out charge" usually means the cost of getting to you is built into the labour price rather than shown as a separate fee. It does not always mean the visit is free. UK advertising rules say the claim is only fair if you can decline the work after the diagnosis without paying for travel or the visit. Ask exactly that before you book.
What is a call-out fee?
A call-out fee is a charge for travelling to you and looking at the problem. Some firms charge it separately, some include the first hour of labour in it, and some fold it into an hourly rate. None of these is wrong as long as the price is clear before the visit.
Common pricing models
| Model | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Call-out fee plus hourly rate | You pay the fee even if you decline the work |
| Call-out including first hour | Small jobs may cost no more than the call-out |
| Fixed price per job | Clear upfront, but check what is included |
| "No call-out charge" | Should mean you pay nothing if you say no after diagnosis |
Market prices for context
MyJobQuote's 2026 figures put a London emergency plumber call-out at about £90 to £120, with £75 to £95 an hour after that. Checkatrade's May 2026 guide puts the average UK locksmith rate at about £65 an hour. Prices rise at night, at weekends and on bank holidays.
Questions to ask before booking
- Is there a charge if I decide not to go ahead after you look at it?
- What does the first charge include, and how long does it cover?
- What is the rate after that, and is it charged by the hour or half hour?
- Are parts and VAT included?
- Is there an extra charge for evenings or weekends?
How we price
We agree a written price with you before any work starts, so you know the full cost before you decide. Call 020 3831 5477 to discuss your job.
Related service: plumber and locksmith FAQs.
A few common questions
What does no call-out charge mean?expand_more
It usually means travel is built into the labour price instead of shown as a separate fee. Under UK advertising rules, the claim is only fair if you can decline the work after diagnosis without paying for the visit. Ask the firm directly whether you will pay anything if you say no.
How much is a call-out fee in London?expand_more
MyJobQuote's 2026 figures put a London emergency plumber call-out at about £90 to £120, followed by £75 to £95 an hour. Checkatrade's May 2026 guide puts the average UK locksmith rate at about £65 an hour. Night and weekend visits usually cost more.
Do I pay a call-out fee if I do not go ahead?expand_more
It depends on the firm. Many charge the call-out fee whatever you decide, because they have travelled to you and diagnosed the fault. Ask before booking whether there is any charge if you decline the work, and get the answer in writing if possible.
Is a call-out fee the same as the first hour?expand_more
Sometimes. Some firms include the first hour of labour in the call-out fee, so a small job costs no more than the call-out. Others charge the call-out and then labour from the first minute. Ask what the first charge covers before you book.
How do I compare plumber or locksmith quotes fairly?expand_more
Compare the total likely cost, not just the headline rate. Ask about call-out, hourly or fixed price, parts, VAT and out-of-hours charges. A clear written price before work starts is the best way to compare firms and avoid surprises on the final bill.