Painter & Decorator Cost Guide for London 2026: What to Expect to Pay

Painting and decorating costs in London are higher than in other parts of the UK, reflecting the higher cost of labour, materials, transport, and business overheads in the capital. Understanding typical price ranges helps homeowners budget realistically and identify when a quote is genuinely competitive versus suspiciously low.

Day Rates for Painters in London

A sole trader decorator working in London typically charges £200–£350 per day depending on experience and specialism. A company with employed staff typically charges £250–£400 per decorator per day, reflecting higher overheads and employee costs. These rates are for the decorator's time only — materials are typically quoted separately or on a cost-plus basis.

Room Rates for Interior Painting

For a single room, prices typically run as follows: Single bedroom £400–£700 (walls, ceiling, woodwork, two coats). Double bedroom £500–£900. Lounge/dining room £600–£1,100. Victorian double reception £900–£1,600. These ranges assume good existing surface condition — significant preparation, stripping, or first-time decoration of bare plaster adds considerably to these figures.

Whole-House Redecoration

A typical 3-bedroom Victorian terrace in Hampstead or North London costs £5,000–£12,000 to redecorate fully, depending on the condition of surfaces, the quality of finish required, and the products specified. High-specification projects with premium products (Farrow & Ball throughout, specialist finishes, significant preparation work) can exceed this range.

Why We Don't Always Offer the Lowest Price

We are not the cheapest decorator in London, and we don't try to be. We specify the right products, do the correct preparation, employ experienced decorators, and stand behind our work with a five-year guarantee. Our quotes are transparent and detailed. Call 020 3874 2670 for a free written quote with full specification.