Where’s the job?

Scope of Works

• inspect and prepare walls for painting (fill cracks, sand loose paint, remove flaking emulsion)

• mask and protect skirtings, floors, sockets, windows and furniture

• apply primer/undercoat to repaired or stained areas

• cut in around cornices, window frames, doors and radiators and apply two coats of emulsion to walls

• paint skirtings, architraves and radiator if requested (separate charge may apply)

• tidy site, remove dust sheets and minor debris and advise on drying times and aftercare

Typical Cost

Time on Site

Most straightforward living room repaints take 1–2 days (single painter 6–10 hours); two painters typically complete in 4–6 hours. Time increases where wallpaper needs removing, plaster repairs are required, ceilings are high, multiple colours are used or longer drying times are needed

Questions to Ask Your Tradie

• are you insured for public liability and employer's liability and can you provide certificates?

• do you supply paint or can i supply my own and how do you handle colour matching?

• how many coats do you recommend and which products will you use for walls and woodwork?

• who will do the preparation (filling, sanding, priming) and is that included in the price?

• what is your estimated timescale and working hours each day?

• are there likely to be any extra charges (access equipment, wallpaper removal, specialist primer) and how will these be agreed?

How to Avoid Surprises

• clear or cover furniture and fragile items before the tradie arrives

• reserve parking or confirm safe van access for ladders and materials

• check for restrictions (leasehold rules, listed building consents or communal area permissions)

• tell the tradie about any previous damp, mould or lead paint concerns so suitable PPE and products are used

• confirm who moves heavy items and whether you need to remove curtains, wall art and electronics beforehand

• agree a start time and a sign-off process for completed work and any extra charges