How much does a painter and decorator cost?
Updated 9 Aug 2026
Typical cost per day
£150 – £250
A painter and decorator in the UK typically charges £150–£250 per day, or £180–£400 to paint an average room. Preparation is the bulk of the work — filling, sanding and priming often takes longer than the painting itself.
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Decorator day rate | £150 – £250 |
| Paint a small bedroom | £180 – £300 |
| Paint an average living room | £250 – £450 |
| Paint a hallway, stairs & landing | £400 – £800 |
| Woodwork only (per room) | £100 – £220 |
| Wallpapering (per roll hung) | £25 – £45 |
Prices are typical UK guide figures and vary by area, materials and job size. Post your job for real local quotes.
What affects the price?
Preparation. Sound walls that just need a coat are quick; walls with cracks, old wallpaper, flaking paint or damp need filling, stripping and sealing first, and that's where the hours go.
Ceiling height, stairwells and detailed woodwork all add time. Dark-to-light colour changes may need an extra coat.
Does the price include paint?
Sometimes. Many decorators quote labour only and ask you to supply the paint, which lets you choose the brand and finish. Always check which you're being quoted.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to paint a room?+
An average bedroom is typically one to two days including preparation and two coats.
Should I strip wallpaper first?+
If you're happy to, it saves money — stripping and making good is one of the more time-consuming parts of the job.
Ready to get it done?
Post your painting & decorating job free on BidMyJob and local people will bid. No fees, no commission — you pick who you like.