How Much Does Bricklaying Cost in Perth? 2026 Price Guide
Bricklaying remains one of the most important structural trades in Perth construction. Yet it is also one of the most misunderstood costs. Many homeowners receive quotes that vary wildly, without a clear explanation of why. The bricklaying cost in Perth typically ranges from around $80 to $120 per hour, $60 to $95 per square metre, or $1.50 to $2.50 per brick, depending on how the work is priced. These figures are indicative only, as actual rates vary between bricklayers based on experience, project size, materials, site conditions, and location. This blog explains how bricklaying costs in Perth can vary across different pricing models and the key factors that influence what you ultimately pay.
Disclaimer: All costs shown are indicative estimates only. Actual bricklaying prices vary by bricklayer, site conditions, materials, and project scope. Always obtain a written quote for accurate pricing.
Understanding Bricklaying Costs in Perth
Bricklaying cost in Perth is not a single universal rate. Instead, bricklayers price work based on the scope, scale, and certainty of the project. Understanding how these pricing models work makes it easier to compare quotes and choose the right contractor.
1. Hourly Rates
Hourly pricing is most commonly used for small-scale or uncertain work where it is difficult to accurately measure quantities upfront. In Perth, this is typical for repair work, alterations, or short-duration jobs.
Perth market rate (2026):
- $80 to $120 per hour, depending on location and complexity
When hourly rates are used
- Brick repairs and replacements
- Small garden walls
- Modifications to existing structures
- Jobs with unknown site conditions
Pros
- Transparent for short jobs
- Fair when the scope cannot be fixed in advance
Cons
- Final cost can be unpredictable
- Less suitable for large projects
Hourly Rate Comparison Across Perth
| Perth Area | Typical Hourly Rate | Notes |
| Inner Perth (Subiaco, Mt Lawley) | $100 to $120 | High demand, access and parking constraints |
| Northern Suburbs (Joondalup, Wanneroo) | $85 to $105 | Standard metro conditions |
| Southern Suburbs (Baldivis, Byford, Cockburn) | $80 to $100 | Competitive market, newer developments |
| Perth Hills (Kalamunda, Mundaring) | $95 to $115 | Travel time and terrain factored in |
2. Per Square Metre Pricing
Per square metre pricing is the most common model for residential bricklaying in Perth. It provides clarity for both homeowners and builders, especially for walls, fences, and extensions.
Perth average (2026):
- $60 to $95 per m² (labour only)
Typically used for
- External walls
- Boundary walls
- Large, continuous brick surfaces
Factors that influence the rate
- Brick type (clay, concrete, engineered)
- Wall height and thickness
- Straight versus curved construction
- Ease of access and scaffold requirements
This model works best when drawings are clear, and site conditions are known.
3. Per Brick / Per 1,000 Bricks
Large-scale construction projects often use a per-brick or per-1,000-bricks rate. This method suits volume work where productivity can be planned accurately.
Typical labour cost (2026)
- $1.50 to $2.50 per brick
- $1,500 to $2,500 per 1,000 bricks (labour only)
Average productivity
- 300 to 400 bricks per day per bricklayer
Commonly used for
- New home construction
- Townhouse developments
- Commercial bricklaying projects
Pro Tip: Always ask Perth bricklayers which pricing model they use and get it in writing. At Boda Building Group, we provide fully itemised quotes that clearly show how labour and materials are calculated, so there are no grey areas later.
Complete Perth Bricklaying Cost Breakdown by Project Type
Different bricklaying projects carry very different cost profiles. Below is a realistic breakdown based on current Perth pricing and site conditions.
Brick Fence Costs Perth
A brick fence and boundary wall remain the most popular solutions due to durability, privacy, and long-term value. A brick fence cost in Perth will vary based on height, thickness, and finish.
Average cost (supply and install):
- $240 to $420 per linear metre
What drives fence pricing
- Single-skin vs double-skin construction
- Decorative brickwork Perth
- Pillars, caps, and infill panels
Fence Cost Comparison
| Fence Type | Cost per Linear Metre | Typical Height | Notes |
| Single-skin clay brick | $240 to $300 | 1.5 to 1.8m | Most common boundary option |
| Double-skin clay brick | $320 to $420 | 1.8m | Stronger, better sound reduction |
| Rendered brick & steel | $300 to $380 | 1.8m | Modern appearance |
| Decorative face brick | $350 to $450 | 1.5 to 1.8m | Premium finish |
| Brick pillars with infill | $380 to $520 | Varies | Feature fencing |
Hidden costs to budget for
- Council approvals: $50 to $400+
- Old fence removal: $25 to $40 per metre
- Site levelling or excavation: $300 to $800
- Rubbish removal: $200 to $400
House Extension / Room Addition Costs
Brickwork is a major component of any home extension, but it is only one part of the overall build. Understanding what is included helps avoid confusion when comparing quotes.
Average brickwork cost (single room):
- $4,500 to $10,750, depending on size
Typical Brickwork Costs
| Extension Size | Brick Area | Material Cost | Labour Cost | Total |
| Small (3m x 3m) | 32 m² | $2,100 | $2,400 | $4,500 |
| Medium (4m x 5m) | 50 m² | $3,200 | $3,750 | $6,950 |
| Large (6m x 6m) | 78 m² | $4,900 | $5,850 | $10,750 |
What’s included
- Brick veneer walls
- Mortar and bonding
- Wall ties and reinforcement
- Damp-proof course
- Basic site cleanup
Not included (budget separately)
- Foundations and footings: $2,500 to $5,000
- Roof structure: $4,000 to $8,000
- Windows and doors: $1,500 to $4,000
- Interior finishes: $3,000 to $8,000
- Electrical and plumbing rough-in: $2,000 to $5,000
Retaining Wall Costs Perth
Brick retaining walls require careful design and often engineering approval. The retaining wall contractors in Perth might charge particularly high rates in the sloping suburbs.
Average cost: $380 to $760 per m²
Cost by Wall Height
| Wall Height | Cost per m² | Includes |
| Under 600mm | $380 to $450 | Simple gravity wall |
| 600mm to 1.2m | $450 to $620 | Reinforcement |
| 1.2m to 2.4m | $620 to $760 | Engineering, drainage, permits |
New Home Construction (Brick Veneer)
Brick veneer remains the most common construction method for Perth homes due to speed and cost efficiency.
Average cost: $55 to $85 per m²
Typical 200m² Home
- Materials: $8,000 to $12,000
- Labour: $11,000 to $17,000
- Total brickwork: $19,000 to $29,000
Double Brick vs Brick Veneer
| Type | Cost per m² | Pros | Cons |
| Brick veneer | $55 to $85 | Faster, lighter, cost-effective | Less soundproofing |
| Double brick | $120 to $185 | Excellent insulation and durability | Higher cost, longer build |
Speciality Bricklaying Projects
Some brickwork falls outside standard walls and fences. These jobs are priced differently due to the detail and skill required.
| Project | Typical Cost | Notes |
| Brick repair/repointing | $6 to $30 per metre | Prevents structural damage |
| Work done by Perth brick pavers | $75 to $130 per m² | Driveways, courtyards |
| Fireplace construction | $2,000 to $4,800 | Includes hearth and flue |
| Brick letterboxes/pillars | $550 to $1,900 | Decorative entrance features |
What Affects Bricklaying Costs in Perth?
Bricklaying prices in Perth are influenced by more than labour alone. Understanding these factors helps explain why bricklaying quotes can vary across different projects and suburbs.
Material Choice
The type of brick selected has a direct impact on both material and labour costs. Some bricks are straightforward to lay, while others require more precision, slower installation, and specialised workmanship.
How material choice affects pricing:
- Higher-grade bricks increase material costs
- Decorative bricks require tighter alignment and finishing
- Structural bricks often involve reinforcement and compliance requirements
| Brick Type | Cost per 1,000 | Characteristics | Best For |
| Standard clay bricks | $650 to $850 | Durable and versatile | General construction |
| Face bricks | $850 to $1,200 | Decorative finish | Feature and visible walls |
| Engineering bricks | $900 to $1,400 | High strength | Retaining walls and structural work |
| Handmade bricks | $1,400 to $2,500 | Unique appearance | Heritage and luxury homes |
| Concrete bricks | $700 to $1,000 | Uniform sizing | Contemporary builds |
Mortar cost considerations:
- Standard cement mortar typically costs $80 to $160 per 1,000 bricks
- Coloured mortar increases mortar costs by approximately 30% to 50%
- Lime mortar for heritage work generally costs $160 to $260 per 1,000 bricks
Project Complexity
Brickwork complexity directly affects labour time and skill requirements of home builders Perth. Straight, repetitive walls are the fastest to build, while decorative or architectural features slow productivity.
Labour impact by complexity:
- Straight walls are charged at the base labour rate
- Curved or radius walls increase labour costs by approximately 30% to 50%
- Decorative brick patterns increase labour requirements by around 40% to 60%
- Arches and feature brickwork can increase labour costs by roughly 50% to 80%
- Brick slips and cladding systems are typically priced at $80 to $150 per square metre
Site Access and Conditions
Access limitations and ground conditions can significantly affect productivity and the bricklaying cost per square metre, particularly in the Perth hills and established suburbs.
Common site-related cost factors:
- Scaffolding for work above two metres generally costs $900 to $2,600 per project
- Narrow or restricted access increases labour costs by around 15% to 25%
- Sloping or rocky ground increases labour and excavation costs by approximately 20% to 40%
- Site preparation, such as clearing and levelling, typically ranges from $600 to $2,200
Timing and Seasonality
Bricklaying demand in Perth fluctuates throughout the year, which directly impacts pricing and availability.
Peak Season (September to March)
- Highest demand for bricklayers
- Premium labour rates
- Longer booking lead times
Off-Peak Season (April to August)
- Better availability of trades
- More flexible scheduling
- Greater opportunity for negotiated pricing
How to Get Accurate Bricklaying Quotes in Perth
Accurate quotes depend on asking the right questions to Perth bricklaying contractors.
What to Ask Bricklayers in Perth
- Is the quote fixed or an estimate?
- What exactly is included?
- Are you licensed and insured in WA?
- How are variations handled?
- What is the payment schedule?
- What warranty is provided?
- Who manages council approvals?
- What is the expected timeline?
Red Flags in Quotes
- Cash-only pricing
- No licence or ABN
- Large upfront deposits
- Vague scope descriptions
- Prices far below market averages
Real Perth Project Examples with Complete Costs
Seeing real projects with full cost transparency is the easiest way to understand bricklaying prices in Perth. Check out the examples below:
Project 1: Brick Fence in Baldivis
This project involved replacing an ageing Colorbond fence with a more durable and visually appealing brick boundary fence. The site was flat with good access, which helped keep labour efficient and costs predictable.
Project Overview
- Location: Baldivis
- Fence length: 25 metres
- Height: 1.8 metres
- Construction: Single-skin clay brick
- Features: Three decorative brick pillars
| Cost Category | Description | Cost |
| Materials | Bricks, mortar, concrete, steel, caps | $3,870 |
| Labour | Footings, bricklaying, pillars, finishing | $3,630 |
| Other costs | Permit, old fence removal, waste | $1,050 |
| Total Project Cost | $8,550 |
Key Details
- Cost per linear metre: $342
- Timeline: 7 working days
- Council approval required: Yes
Project 2: Home Extension in Ellenbrook
This project formed part of a larger home extension, adding a new bedroom and ensuite to an existing two-storey house. The brickwork was completed on the first floor, which introduced scaffolding and access considerations.
Project Overview
- Location: Ellenbrook
- Extension size: 4m x 5m bedroom with ensuite
- Brickwork area: 50 m²
- Construction type: Brick veneer
- Access: Moderate (side access only)
| Item | Cost |
| Materials (bricks, mortar, ties) | $3,800 |
| Labour (50 m² @ $75/m²) | $3,750 |
| Scaffolding hire | $950 |
| Brickwork Subtotal | $8,500 |
Full Project Context
- Total build cost (all trades): $28,280
- Brickwork portion: 30% of total cost
- Brickwork timeline: 6 working days
- Full project timeline: Approximately 8 weeks
Project 3: Retaining Wall in Kalamunda
Retaining walls in the Perth Hills require careful engineering due to slope, soil movement, and drainage requirements. This project involved challenging ground conditions and stricter compliance standards.
Project Overview
- Location: Kalamunda
- Wall length: 15 metres
- Height: 1.2 metres
- Total wall area: 18 m²
- Construction: Double-skin engineered brick
| Cost Category | Description | Cost |
| Materials | Bricks, concrete, steel, drainage, membrane | $6,690 |
| Labour | Excavation, bricklaying, and drainage installation | $4,670 |
| Engineering & approvals | Certification, council approval, equipment | $1,650 |
| Total Project Cost | $13,010 |
Why was the Cost Higher?
- Rocky terrain requiring mechanical excavation
- Engineering certification mandatory
- Additional drainage and waterproofing
- Sloped access slows material handling
Why Choose Boda Building Group?
Choosing the right builder matters just as much as the price. Brickwork is structural, permanent, and difficult to fix once completed. At Boda Building Group, we focus on doing the job properly the first time, with clear communication and no hidden costs. Why Perth homeowners choose us:
- 15+ years of hands-on experience across Perth
- 500+ completed residential projects in metro areas
- Fully licensed and insured WA tradies
- Multi-trade expertise covering bricklaying, carpentry, tiling, and handyman work
- Transparent fixed-price quotes with clear inclusions
- Full handling of permits and council approvals
- Same-day quote turnaround for most projects
Conclusion
Bricklaying costs in Perth are shaped by far more than just labour rates. Materials, design complexity, site conditions, and timing all influence the final price. By understanding how a bricklayer in Perth charges and what drives cost variations, you can plan confidently and avoid unexpected expenses. Choosing an experienced local builder with transparent pricing ensures your project is completed properly, safely, and to a standard that lasts.
FAQs- Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get a same-day quote for bricklaying in Perth?
Yes, Boda Building Group provides same-day quotes for most Perth bricklaying projects. We can assess your site photos remotely or schedule an on-site visit within 24-48 hours for complex projects requiring detailed measurements.
Q: Do bricklaying quotes include materials or just labour?
This varies by contractor. Always clarify whether quotes are “supply and install” (materials included) or “labour only.” Boda Building Group provides comprehensive quotes including materials, labour, permits, and cleanup—everything except optional finishes like sealing or rendering.
Q: How long does it take to lay 1,000 bricks?
An experienced bricklayer lays 300-400 bricks per day in Perth. Therefore, 1,000 bricks takes 2.5-3.5 days for one tradesperson. Complex patterns or difficult access slows this to 200-250 bricks per day.
Q: Do I need council approval for bricklaying in Perth?
Most bricklaying projects require building permits in Perth. New construction, extensions, fences over 1.2m, and retaining walls over 0.5m all need approval. Minor repairs and repointing are usually exempt. Boda handles all permit applications for clients.
Q: What’s cheaper: brick veneer or double brick?
Brick veneer costs $50-$80/m² versus $120-$180/m² for double brick—nearly half the price. However, double brick offers superior soundproofing and insulation. For Perth’s climate, brick veneer with good insulation is usually sufficient for residential homes.
Q: How do I know if a bricklayer’s quote is fair?
Compare 3 written quotes from licensed Perth bricklayers. Check they’re quoting for identical scope (same materials, finishes, inclusions). Beware quotes 30%+ below others—likely cutting corners on materials or unlicensed. Fair Perth pricing: $80-$120/m² for standard work.
Q: Can weather affect bricklaying costs in Perth?
Perth’s dry climate rarely delays bricklaying, but rain can pause work (mortar won’t set properly). Winter projects may have 1-2 rain delays. Extreme summer heat (over 40°C) also slows work for safety. Fixed-price contracts protect you from weather-related cost increases.
Q: What warranty should Perth bricklayers provide?
Western Australia law requires minimum 6-year structural warranty on all building work. Reputable Perth bricklayers offer 10+ year workmanship warranties covering all bricklaying defects from poor workmanship.
