About the job itself
The quote should describe exactly what you're paying for. If it just says 'paint lounge', ask for more detail.
- Which surfaces are included – walls, ceiling, skirting, doors, frames, radiators?
- What preparation will you do – filling, sanding, stain blocking, caulking?
- How many coats are allowed for, including mist coats or undercoats?
- Which paint brand and range will you use, and is it included in the price?
- How will you protect floors, furniture and fittings?
About timings
Good painters are often booked up weeks ahead, especially for exterior work in spring and summer. That's normal. What matters is that the start date and expected duration are clear.
- When can you start, and how long will the job take?
- What hours will you be working?
- Will you be working alone or with others?
- For outside work: what happens if the weather is bad?
About the business
A few practical questions help you check you're dealing with someone reliable.
- Do you have public liability insurance, and can I see it?
- Can I see photos of similar recent jobs, or speak to a past customer?
- Do you offer any guarantee on your workmanship?
- Are you VAT-registered, and is VAT included in the price?
Rather leave it to a professional?
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About payment
For small jobs, many decorators are paid on completion. For larger jobs, a deposit to cover materials and stage payments are common and reasonable. Be wary of anyone asking for the full amount up front.
Comparing the answers
The cheapest quote isn't always the best value. A slightly higher price that includes proper preparation, an extra coat and good-quality paint often looks better and lasts longer. And how a decorator answers your questions – clearly, patiently, without pressure – tells you a lot about how they'll handle the job.
