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Pricing for painting and decorating depends on prep, access, surface condition, finishes, and how much cutting-in is needed. Below is a clear way to think about costs in London, Leicester, so you can budget with confidence.
Typical price ranges (2026)
| Job | What’s included | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Single room repaint | Prep + 2 coats walls (and optional ceiling/woodwork) | Varies by size & condition |
| Hallway / stairs | High cutting-in + protection + durability finish | Often higher than expected |
| Exterior refresh | Scrape/sand, patch, prime, weatherproof system | Depends on access & repairs |
Tip: For a sharper estimate, measure room length, width and height, and note whether there’s wallpaper removal, stains, water damage, cracks or lots of woodwork.
What changes the price the most?
- Prep level: filling, sanding, stain-blocking, caulking and patch repairs.
- Surface condition: flaking paint, damaged plaster, nicotine staining, damp marks.
- Access: high ceilings, stairwells, narrow hallways, exterior scaffolding or ladder work.
- Finish choice: durable/washable paints cost more but last longer.
- Colour changes: dark-to-light (or bright colours) may need extra coats or primer.
How to budget accurately
- Decide finish: matt vs durable matt vs eggshell/satin (especially for halls and kitchens).
- List rooms + extras: ceilings, doors, skirting, frames, radiators.
- Note condition: “good / average / needs repairs” is enough for a quick quote.
- Send photos: a wide shot plus close-ups of cracks and edges saves time and avoids surprises.