How much does a painter and decorator cost in the UK?
Painting and decorating costs in the UK depend primarily on the surface area to be painted, the condition of existing surfaces, and the quality of paint used. Here is what you can expect to pay for common jobs in 2025–2026.
Typical painting and decorating costs (2025–2026)
| Job type | Typical price range |
|---|---|
| Interior wall painting (per m²) | £8 – £18 per m² |
| Full interior repaint — 2-bedroom home | £1,800 – £3,200 |
| Full interior repaint — 3-bedroom home | £2,500 – £4,500 |
| Ceiling painting only (per m²) | £6 – £12 per m² |
| Exterior wall painting (per m²) | £10 – £20 per m² |
| Full exterior repaint — standard home | £2,800 – £6,000 |
| Fascia and soffit painting (per linear metre) | £6 – £12 per metre |
| Wallpapering (per roll hung) | £15 – £30 per roll |
| Garden fence/wall painting (per linear metre) | £8 – £18 per metre |
What affects the price?
- Surface preparation. Cracks, holes, and peeling paint all need to be repaired before painting. This adds time and cost — typically £100–£350 depending on the extent of damage.
- Paint quality. Premium paints (Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, Dulux Trade) cost considerably more per tin than budget trade paint. A good decorator will recommend the right product for the surface.
- Number of coats. A quality job typically requires two coats — sometimes three for dark-to-light colour changes. Single-coat "specials" rarely last.
- Access and scaffolding. Two-storey exterior walls and high ceilings require scaffolding or tower access, adding £150–£600 to the job.
- Weather windows. Exterior painting depends on dry spells — the UK's changeable weather can extend a job's timeline, particularly in autumn/winter.
Tips for getting a fair price
- Get quotes based on the actual surface area to be painted — not just "the house." A quote that measures m² is more accurate than one based on rooms.
- Ask what paint brand and product is included in the quote. Upgrading to a better paint brand costs more but significantly extends the life of the finish.
- Check whether the quote includes surface preparation (filling, sanding, priming) or only the paint application.
- Ask for a written guarantee on workmanship. Most professional decorators stand behind their work for a defined period after completion.
- Avoid paying the full amount upfront. TruePro's payment protection holds your payment securely until you've confirmed the finish meets your expectations.
How long does painting last?
Quality interior painting in good conditions lasts 7–10 years. Exterior painting in the UK's damp, changeable climate typically lasts 4–6 years before it needs refreshing, shorter in coastal or particularly exposed locations.