How much does a painter and decorator cost in the UK?
Last updated 9 July 2026 · 6 min read · By GotAPal
Heads up on prices: the figures below are broad UK guide ranges based on common market rates. Actual costs vary by region, job and tradesperson. Always confirm the price directly with the trade before booking.
A fresh coat of paint transforms a room, and a good decorator makes it last. Most of the price is in the preparation, not the painting. Here's what UK painters and decorators charge in 2026.
The short version
- Day rates are typically £180 to £350, rising to £450 to £650 in London.
- A single room usually costs £200 to £500 to paint.
- Repainting a whole 3-bed house interior runs about £2,000 to £4,000.
- Paint is often charged separately from labour. Check the quote.
- Prep (filling, sanding, stripping wallpaper) is where the time and cost really go.
The short answer
- Day rate: £180 to £350 outside London, £450 to £650 in the capital.
- Most decorators quote a fixed price per room or for the whole job.
Typical prices
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Paint a small room (walls + ceiling) | £200 to £400 |
| Paint a large room | £400 to £700 |
| Paint hallway, stairs and landing | £450 to £900 |
| Repaint whole 3-bed house (interior) | £2,000 to £4,000 |
| Paint the exterior of a house | £1,500 to £4,000 |
| Hang wallpaper on a feature wall | £150 to £350 |
| Day rate (labour) | £180 to £350 |
What affects the price
- Preparation. Filling, sanding and stripping old paper is the biggest variable.
- Number of coats and dark-to-light colour changes add time.
- Ceiling height and stairwells need access equipment.
- Paint quality: usually charged on top of labour.
How to get a fair deal
- Confirm whether paint is included in the price.
- Ask about prep: a cheap quote that skips prep won't last.
- Get a per-room or fixed quote in writing and check reviews.
Find a decorator near you
You can find and compare painters and decorators in your area on GotAPal, and message them directly. GotAPal is free to use and free to list, with no lead fees, ever.
Find a painter and decorator near you
Painters and decorators listed across the UK, or go straight to a town:
- Painters and decorators in Sheffield
- Painters and decorators in Horsham
- Painters and decorators in Ipswich
- Painters and decorators in Maidstone
- Painters and decorators in Taunton
- Painters and decorators in Croydon
- Painters and decorators in London
- Painters and decorators in Bristol
GotAPal lists businesses from public records and doesn't vet them, so check before you hire.
Other trades for this job
Ready to get started?
Browse trades near youAre you a tradesperson? Your business may already be listed. Claim it free, with no lead fees, and get a free touchpoint.
Claim your free listing