Getting a Quote You Can Actually Compare
One of the most common complaints about getting decorating quotes is that they come back wildly different prices for seemingly the same job. The reason is almost always that each decorator has assumed something different about the brief. Here's how to get quotes that are genuinely comparable.
1. Be Specific About What You Want Done
Don't just say "paint the lounge." Tell the decorator:
- Which surfaces — walls only, or walls + ceiling + woodwork?
- Whether the woodwork includes skirting boards, door frames, window frames, radiators
- The current colour and the colour you want (dark to light = more coats = higher cost)
- Whether you want 2 coats or 3 (or ask what they recommend)
2. Describe the Current Condition of the Walls
A decorator quoting a room in perfect condition will price it very differently to one with cracked plaster, old wallpaper that needs stripping, or bare plaster that needs a mist coat first. Be upfront about:
- Any cracks, holes or water stains
- Whether there's existing wallpaper that needs removing
- Whether the walls have been recently plastered
3. Specify Who Supplies Materials
Some decorators include materials in their quote, others quote labour only. Make sure you're comparing like-for-like. If the decorator is supplying paint, ask what brand and quality they use — cheaper paint means more coats and a shorter-lasting finish.
4. Get At Least 3 Quotes
The spread between the cheapest and most expensive quote for the same job can be 50% or more. Three quotes gives you enough data to spot an outlier (too cheap = cutting corners; too expensive = doesn't need the work) and choose confidently from the middle.
5. Ask What's Included in Prep
Ask specifically: does the quote include filling cracks, sanding, washing walls, masking and protecting floors and furniture? If a decorator doesn't mention prep at all, that's a red flag — proper prep is what separates a finish that looks good for 10 years from one that starts peeling within 2.
6. Get It in Writing
Any quote over a few hundred pounds should be confirmed in writing — even a simple email outlining what's included. This protects both you and the decorator if there's any dispute about what was agreed.
Use Decorating Quotes to get 3 free quotes from vetted local decorators — all from one form, no obligation.