Painter and Decorator Guide

Scope of Works

• Protect adjacent floors, furniture and fittings with clean dust‑sheets.

• Lightly sand, de‑nib or scrape loose paint and score torn wallpaper edges.

• Fill, skim and spot‑prime chips, dents and hairline cracks.

• Apply colour‑matched touch‑up paint with mini‑roller/brush, feathering edges.

• Cut, paste and fit small wallpaper patches, aligning the pattern.

• Final blending of sheen and texture; wipe down and reinstate socket plates.

• Remove debris and leave the work area clean.

Typical Cost (inc. VAT)

Time on Site

Typical minor touch‑up jobs take 2–4 hours including drying; expect up to a full day if:

• Multiple colours require separate coats.

• Stain‑blocking primer needs extended curing.

• Wallpaper pattern‑matching is complex or runs behind fixed joinery.

• Difficult access (stairwell, vaulted ceiling) slows safe set‑up.
  

Questions to Ask Your Trade

1. How will you colour‑match the existing paint/wallpaper?

2. Is the quoted price inclusive of all materials and VAT?

3. What surface preparation do you include, and what could cost extra?

4. Will you guarantee the touch‑up remains invisible after curing?

5. Do you carry full Public Liability Insurance, and can I see a copy?

6. How will you manage ventilation and dust control inside my home?

7. Can you provide recent photos or references for similar patch‑repair work?
   

How to Avoid Surprises

• Confirm parking or permit arrangements for the van.

• Clear at least 1 m working space around repair areas.

• Advise if walls are freshly plastered or painted with speciality finishes.

• Check whether a key/door code is needed for access.

• Flag any height work that may require small tower or scaffolding.

• Ensure pets and children are kept clear of wet surfaces and tools.

Cost data sources: Checkatrade Painter & Decorator Cost Breakdown 2025 and PayScale UK hourly rates 2025 CheckatradePayscale