Painting and Decorating Cost UK 2026
Interior and exterior painting costs per room, per day, and per square metre.
Painting and decorating is one of the most common home improvement jobs in the UK and one of the easiest to get quotes for. But prices vary significantly depending on the condition of the walls, the quality of paint, and whether you need wallpaper stripping or preparation work.
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Day rates
Most painters and decorators in the UK charge £180 to £250 per day outside London. In London and the South East, expect £250 to £350 per day. A good decorator can typically paint a medium room (walls and ceiling, two coats) in one to one and a half days, assuming the walls are in reasonable condition.
What adds cost
Wallpaper stripping adds £100 to £300 per room depending on how many layers and how stubborn the adhesive is. Filling cracks and holes in plaster adds time. High ceilings or stairwells require scaffolding or tower access. Woodwork (skirting boards, door frames, window frames) is often quoted separately at £30 to £60 per door or window.
Paint quality matters more than people think. A decorator using Dulux Trade or Farrow and Ball will charge more for materials, but the finish and durability are noticeably better than budget paint. Expect to pay £40 to £60 per room for quality paint versus £15 to £25 for basic.
Stop guessing. Get an actual estimate.
Our AI estimator gives you a full materials and labour breakdown for your specific project in under 60 seconds. Free, no signup needed.