Updated for 2025
Painting is one of the most common domestic jobs in the UK, and customers often ask for a quick quote. The challenge is keeping the price fair, realistic and profitable — especially when every room, wall and condition is different. This guide gives you a clear method to price painting jobs without guesswork.
1. Typical UK decorator rates
Most decorators charge either day rates or fixed prices:
- Day rate: £150–£250/day (regional differences apply)
- Hourly: £25–£40/h
- Fixed per room: £150–£400 depending on size and prep
In London, prices can be 20–30 % higher.
2. How to measure walls quickly
The standard way is to calculate the total wall area:
Area = (Length × Height × 2) + (Width × Height × 2)
Example: 4m × 3m room, 2.4m high → roughly 33–34 m² of wall area.
3. Paint coverage and materials
Most UK trade paints cover around 12m² per litre per coat. Two coats are the norm.
- Trade emulsion: £12–£25 per 2.5L
- Primer/sealer: £15–£30
- Brushes, rollers, sheets: £10–£20 per job
- Filler, caulk, tape: £5–£15
Most decorators add 10–20 % material markup to cover time and sourcing.
4. Prep work matters more than painting
Preparation increases your time dramatically. Include these in your price when needed:
- Filling cracks or holes
- Sanding (especially old plaster)
- Masking around windows, radiators, sockets
- Removing old flaky paint
If the client wants “quick refresh”, be clear what’s included and excluded.
5. Example real-world pricing
Small bedroom (3m × 3m)
- Labour: 1 day (£180–£220)
- Materials: £20–£35
Total: £200–£260
Medium room (4m × 3.5m)
- Labour: 1.5 days (£250–£350)
- Materials: £30–£50
Total: £280–£400
6. Common extras to charge for
- Repairing damaged walls
- Painting doors/frames
- Painting ceilings (often +30–40 %)
- Moving large furniture
- Parking fees
7. Summary
A clear quote avoids misunderstandings. Break down labour, materials, prep and extras. Clients appreciate transparency — and your pricing stays profitable.