How to find and hire a painter and decorator

Fresh paint or wallpaper can transform a room, but getting the finish right isn’t always easy.

That’s where a painter and decorator comes in.

In the UK, the two roles are usually seen as one profession — decorators don’t just paint walls, they also hang wallpaper, prepare surfaces, and deal with all the fiddly bits that can trip up a DIY job.

If you’re thinking about hiring one, here’s what you need to know.

Why hire a painter and decorator?

There are plenty of reasons to call in a pro:

• Save time and avoid the stress of moving furniture, taping edges, and cleaning brushes.
• Get a professional finish that lasts longer and looks sharper.
• Handle tricky jobs such as wallpapering, high ceilings, or exterior painting.
• Avoid costly mistakes, like using the wrong paint in a busy hallway or rushing prep work.

Sometimes, it’s just easier to let someone with the right tools and experience take care of it.

Where to find a painter and decorator

• Personal recommendations – ask friends, family, or neighbours who’ve had decorating work done recently.
• Trade associations – check the Painting and Decorating Association or the Federation of Master Builders if the project is part of a bigger renovation.
• Local community groups – local noticeboards, Facebook groups, or word-of-mouth can be surprisingly effective.

Lead-generation websites (like Checkatrade or Rated People) can also list decorators, but bear in mind you’ll often be pushed through their system. If you’d rather stay in control, stick to direct recommendations or official trade directories.

What to ask during the first conversation

Your first chat with a decorator doesn’t have to be an interrogation. Many of the important questions come up naturally as you explain your job. Still, it helps to have a few things in mind.

Formal questions to ask:

• Are you insured, and do you offer a guarantee on your work?
• Can you show me photos or references from similar jobs?
• Do you supply the paint and materials, or should I buy them?
• How long do you think this job will take?
• How do you handle prep work like filling cracks, sanding, or priming?

Informal questions that often come up naturally:

• Have you decorated houses like mine before?
• Do you think the walls need lining paper or can we go straight on with paint?
• What paint would you recommend for a hallway with kids running about?
• How many coats do you reckon it’ll take for good coverage?
• Would it make sense to do a couple of rooms together to save time?

These questions not only give you useful answers, they also help you get a feel for the decorator’s approach.

Signs of a good painter and decorator

A reliable decorator will usually:

• Turn up on time for quotes and reply promptly.
• Provide a clear written estimate that separates labour and materials.
• Offer options instead of pushing one solution.
• Take a careful look at walls, ceilings, and woodwork before quoting.
• Keep the place tidy at the end of each day once the job starts.

Typical costs

Costs vary depending on the size of the job, the amount of prep needed, and where you live. As a rough guide:

• Small room (paint only): £250–£400
• Larger room with prep: £400–£700
• Wallpapering: £200–£400 per room

Always get two or three quotes to compare. A decorator who explains their pricing clearly is usually a safer bet than someone who just throws out a low number.

Red flags to watch out for

• Cash-only with no written quote.
• Refusal to provide references or photos of past work.
• A quote that seems too good to be true.
• Rushing prep work, which is key to a lasting finish.

Final tips

Before work begins, make sure you’ve agreed on:

• What’s included (prep, paint, materials, cleanup).
• When the work will start and how long it should take.
• Payment terms — deposit, instalments, or at the end.

It doesn’t need to be a formal contract; even an email summary is enough to protect both sides. And remember, it’s fine to ask questions at any stage. Good decorators know clear communication makes the job smoother for everyone.

Featured image by Anete Lusina