Cost of Painting & Decorating in the UK (2025)
Painting a room costs £200–£500. A full 3-bed house interior costs £2,000–£5,000. Exterior painting a semi runs £800–£2,500.
What affects decorating costs?
The condition of the surfaces is the biggest variable. Walls that need extensive filling, sanding, or lining paper before painting take significantly longer than good-condition walls. The number of coats required, ceiling height, and whether woodwork (skirting, doors, architrave) is included all affect cost.
Should I supply paint or let the decorator?
Most decorators can supply paint at trade prices comparable to retail. Supplying your own paint ensures you get exactly the colour you want but the decorator takes no responsibility for the quality of materials. For best results, agree the paint specification before work begins.
Cost Breakdown
All prices are indicative UK averages for 2025. Actual costs vary by location, specification, and contractor. London and South East rates are typically 20–35% higher.
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Single room (walls & ceiling) | £200 | £450 |
| Hallway, stairs & landing | £350 | £700 |
| Full house interior (3-bed) | £2,000 | £4,500 |
| Exterior painting (semi) | £800 | £2,000 |
| Wallpaper hanging (per roll) | £25 | £60 |
| Decorator day rate | £180 | £280 |
What Affects the Cost?
- ✓Condition of existing surfaces — filling and preparation time
- ✓Number of rooms and ceiling height
- ✓Number of coats specified
- ✓Whether woodwork (skirting, doors, coving) is included
- ✓Wallpaper hanging — more labour intensive than painting
- ✓Specialist finishes — limewash, Venetian plaster, murals
Get Free Quotes for This Work
Post your job on Quote2 and receive up to 3 quotes from local, vetted tradespeople. Free for homeowners.
Post a Job — It's FreeFrequently Asked Questions
How long does decorating a 3-bedroom house take?
A complete interior redecoration (walls, ceilings, and woodwork) for a 3-bed house takes one decorator 8–12 days. Two decorators can complete it in 4–6 days. Factor in drying time between coats.
Should I wallpaper or paint a feature wall?
Both are popular. Wallpaper creates more impact but is more expensive — a feature wall in good quality wallpaper with hanging costs £150–£400. Paint finishes (limewash, Venetian plaster) cost more than standard emulsion but less than wallpaper.
How do I prepare for a decorator?
Clear rooms as completely as possible, remove pictures and curtains, and ensure the decorator has access to electricity and water. Flag any cracks, stains, or damp patches upfront — these affect the preparation time and the final price.
Can a decorator fix cracks before painting?
Yes — most decorators include basic filling and sanding in their quotes. For significant structural cracking, a plasterer should repair this before the decorator starts.