Decorating Rental Properties in North London: Landlord's Guide to Spec & Cost

Decorating rental properties requires a different specification philosophy to decorating owner-occupied homes. The goal is cost-effective durability — coatings that look good, last the maximum amount of time between redecorations, and clean up well between tenancies. Here's our landlord's specification guide for North London rental properties.

The Right Products for Rental Properties

Walls: A washable mid-sheen emulsion rather than flat matt — we specify Dulux Trade Supermatt (where a flatter sheen is desired for cosmetic reasons) or Dulux Easycare Washable & Tough (for maximum practical durability). Both resist scuffing and clean up under washing without marking.

Woodwork: Oil-based or tough water-based eggshell throughout — far more durable than emulsion under the wear of multiple successive tenancies. We avoid gloss, which shows every mark, in favour of an eggshell that reads as clean for longer between redecorations.

Colour palette: Neutral, broadly appealing tones that photograph well for listing purposes and suit most tenants' furniture. Specific recommendations: Dulux Trade Antique White for walls, Dulux Trade Pure Brilliant White for woodwork and ceilings. Simple, safe, and universally lettable.

Maintenance Schedules

For rental properties with normal tenant turnover, a full redecoration every 5–7 years is standard practice (or following major tenant damage). Between full redecorations, we recommend a 'refresh and repair' programme between tenancies — touching up scuffs, filling holes, and applying spot coats to walls and woodwork — which typically takes a day or two and extends the life of the overall decoration.

We work with many landlords and lettings agents across North London for both void redecorations and planned maintenance programmes. Call 020 3874 2670 to discuss your rental portfolio.