Choosing the right painter and decorator can impact the finish of your home for years. A smooth wall, sharp lines and durable paint depend on skill, planning and discipline. Before you sign any agreement, ask clear, direct questions. Strong answers separate true professionals from casual tradespeople.
Below are the essential questions that protect your budget, property and standards.
Are You Fully Insured, and Can I See Proof?
Always begin with insurance. Ask for public liability insurance. A reputable decorator carries cover of at least £1-2 million.
Check that the policy remains valid. Confirm it covers accidental damage to your home, neighbouring property and injury. Do not rely on verbal reassurance; request documentation.
How Much Experience Do You Have With This Type of Property?
Not all decorators can handle every surface. Period homes demand different preparation than modern plasterboard interiors. Ask:
- Have you worked on similar properties?
- Do you handle listed buildings?
- Have you managed large refurbishments?
Listen for clear examples. Experienced decorators describe past projects in detail. They explain challenges and solutions without hesitation.
Can You Provide Recent References?
Ask for contact details of recent clients, not old testimonials. Speak directly to homeowners if possible.
Ask them:
- Did the decorator finish on time?
- Did they stick to the quoted price?
- Did they protect floors and furniture?
- Would you hire them again?
Strong decorators welcome this request.
What Preparation Work Is Included in the Quote?
Preparation defines quality. Poor preparation leads to flaking paint and visible defects.
Ask whether the quote includes:
- Filling cracks and holes
- Sanding surfaces
- Priming bare plaster
- Stain blocking
- Caulking gaps
- Removing old wallpaper
Request itemised detail. A vague answer often hides shortcuts.
How Many Coats Will You Apply?
Two full coats usually create solid coverage. Some colours require three. Ask:
- Will you apply a mist coat on the new plaster?
- Do you include primer where required?
- Will you sand between coats?
Clear answers show care and method.
Which Paint Brands Do You Use?
Quality materials matter. Trade paints last longer and cover better.
Ask:
- Do you use Dulux Trade, Crown Trade or others?
- Can I choose the brand?
- Is the paint included in the price?
Avoid decorators who rely solely on budget retail paint unless agreed.
How Long Will the Job Take?
Ask for a realistic timeline.
A professional decorator explains:
- Start date
- Daily working hours
- Estimated completion date
Short deadlines often mean rushed work. Extremely long timelines may signal poor planning.
Who Will Carry Out the Work?
Some companies send subcontractors. Ask:
- Will you complete the work yourself?
- Do you use employees or subcontractors?
- How many people will be on site?
Consistency matters. Too many rotating tradespeople reduce accountability.
How Do You Protect My Home?
Dust and paint splashes damage flooring and furniture. Ask how the decorator protects:
- Carpets
- Hard floors
- Kitchen units
- Fixtures and fittings
Professionals use dust sheets, masking tape and protective film. They tidy daily.
Do You Provide a Written Quote or Contract?
Never rely on verbal agreements. Request a detailed written quotation that outlines:
- Scope of work
- Materials included
- Labour cost
- VAT (if applicable)
- Payment schedule
Clarity prevents disputes later.
What Is the Payment Structure?
Avoid large upfront payments.
Common arrangements include:
- Small deposit for materials
- Stage payments for larger projects
- Final payment upon completion
If a decorator demands full payment before starting, reconsider.
Do You Offer Any Guarantee on Your Work?
Ask whether they guarantee workmanship.
Many professional decorators provide a 6-12 month workmanship guarantee. Confirm what the guarantee covers. Ensure they outline it in writing.
How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues?
Walls sometimes hide damp, cracks or unstable plaster. Ask:
- What happens if extra repairs arise?
- How will you price additional work?
- Will you notify me before proceeding?
Clear communication prevents surprise invoices.
Will You Remove Waste and Leave the Property Clean?
Confirm clean-up arrangements. Professional decorators remove:
- Empty paint tins
- Wallpaper debris
- Masking materials
They vacuum or sweep before leaving. A clean finish reflects discipline.
Are You VAT Registered?
If the decorator charges VAT, ask for their registration number. VAT registration adds transparency and accountability.
For large projects, VAT status affects your total budget.
Do You Have a Portfolio of Recent Work?
Visual proof builds confidence. Ask to see:
Pay attention to edges and corners. Clean lines reveal precision.
Final Checklist Before You Decide
Direct questions lead to strong decisions. A skilled decorator answers clearly, documents everything and respects your property. When you ask the right questions, you secure not only a fresh finish but peace of mind from start to completion.
