DonereelHow much does a painter and decorator cost in 2026?
Updated November 2026 · UK prices
Painting an average room in the UK costs about £350 to £600 in 2026. Decorators usually charge £150 to £400 a day depending on experience and region, with London and the South East around 20–30% higher.
| Item | Typical 2026 cost |
|---|---|
| Decorator day rate (outside London) | £150 – £400 a day |
| Small room (box room, hall) | £350 – £450 |
| Medium room (bedroom) | £400 – £550 |
| Living room with ceiling and woodwork | £600 – £1,000+ |
| Painting walls (per m² of wall) | £10 – £20 |
Ballpark figures including VAT where charged. Every job is different: get a written quote.
What pushes the price up
- Preparation: filling cracks, sanding, stripping wallpaper or sealing stains takes longer than the painting itself.
- Woodwork and ceilings: skirting, doors, frames and ceilings each add time.
- Colour changes: going from dark to light usually needs an extra coat.
- Access: high ceilings, stairwells and furniture to move.
Day rate or a price per room?
A fixed price per room is easier to budget for one or two rooms. For a whole house or a job where the walls may need a lot of repair, a day rate is often fairer. Ask what paint is included and how many coats.
How to choose a decorator
- Look at finished rooms close up: clean lines at the ceiling, no drips, smooth woodwork.
- Ask how they will protect floors and furniture.
- Get the price, paint and number of coats in writing.
Find painters and decorators by watching their real work
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Questions
How much does it cost to paint a room in the UK?
Usually £350 to £600 in 2026, from around £350 for a small room to £1,000 or more for a large living room with ceilings and woodwork.
What is a painter and decorator's day rate?
Typically £150 to £400 a day, depending on experience and region. London is higher.
How long does it take to paint a room?
One to two days for most rooms, longer if the walls need a lot of preparation.
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