Painter Decorator Day Rate Day Rates UK: Labour and Quote Guide

A day rate is the labour charge for a working day, but it does not always include paint, filler, masking materials or access equipment. Some decorators prefer to quote a complete fixed price for a room or property instead.

When comparing day rates, ask how many working days the decorator expects the job to take. A lower daily rate can still produce a higher total if the estimated duration is longer.

Filling cracks, sanding, removing loose paint, repairing damaged surfaces and protecting floors can take a large part of the job. Good preparation is especially important where walls or woodwork are in poor condition.

A quote that includes thorough preparation can therefore be more expensive than one based mainly on applying paint.

Interior work can include walls, ceilings, doors, skirting boards, staircases and other woodwork. The number of colours and finishes also affects the time needed.

Occupied homes may require furniture to be moved and rooms to be completed in stages, which can make the project slower.

Exterior work can involve extra preparation, weather-resistant coatings and access equipment. Weather can also affect the schedule because some products need suitable temperatures and dry conditions.

Ask whether scaffolding, towers or other access equipment are included in the quote.

Some decorators include standard materials while others quote labour only. Premium paint, specialist primers and durable exterior coatings can increase the material budget.

If you are supplying paint yourself, confirm the exact product and quantity with the decorator before buying.

A fixed quote can make budgeting easier when the scope is clear. A day rate can work well where the amount of repair or preparation is uncertain.

Whichever method is used, make sure both sides agree what rooms, surfaces, coats and finishing work are included.

Compare preparation, materials, number of coats, estimated duration and what happens if additional repairs are discovered.

Previous work, reviews and communication should be considered alongside price, particularly for larger whole-property projects.

One decorator's rate excludes preparation materials; another package allows for more work before painting.

Compare the agreed surface schedule and expected days. Check paint, repairs and equipment separately.

Use the agreed daily rate and number of days. Check whether the rate covers one person or a team, and add separately charged materials and equipment.

The calculator below uses the figures you enter from a quotation. It does not estimate market prices. Confirm what the quoted amount includes, whether VAT applies and which costs remain provisional.