How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House in the UK (2025 Guide)
How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House in the UK (2025 Guide)
Let’s face it - painting your home isn’t something you do every weekend. So when it is time to get it sorted, one of the first questions that comes up (granted you’ve picked the colour by now) is this:
How much is it actually going to cost me?
Whether you’re giving the living room a refresh, tackling the hallway that’s seen better days, or going all-in with a full house repaint, being in the know of what to expect cost-wise can save you a lot of hassle, and hopefully money. Â
Here’s the no-nonsense breakdown of painting costs in the UK right now and what actually affects the price you’ll pay in 2025.
So, what’s the average cost?
If you want a straight-up ballpark figure, here’s a quick look:
| Single room (walls + ceiling) | £250 – £400 |
| 2-bed house (interior only) | £1,200 – £2,000 |
| 3-bed house (interior only) | £1,500 – £2,800 |
| Full exterior paint (walls only) | £1,500 – £3,500+ |
| Per day labour rate (decorator) | £160 – £250 |
Note: Prices vary depending on location, quality of paint, prep work, and the size of your house/room (obviously).
What actually affects the cost?
It’s not just about square footage. Here’s what you’re really paying for:
1. Prep Work
If your walls are cracked, flaky or previously botched—your decorator’s going to need time to sand, fill, and prime. More prep = more labour = higher cost.
But trust us, it’s worth it.
2. Paint Quality
That £12 tin from the DIY shop might look tempting, but it’s not going to give you the same finish or longevity as a professional-grade paint. Brands like Farrow & Ball, Dulux Trade, and Little Greene come at a premium—but they last longer and usually need fewer coats.
3. Access
Got tall ceilings, tricky stairwells or a house that needs scaffolding? Yep, you guessed it—extra cost.
4. Number of Colours / Finishes
One room, one colour? Easy.
Multiple feature walls, contrast trims, satinwood on the skirting and a gloss finish on the door? More time, more precision, more money.
5. Interior vs Exterior
Exterior painting costs more. Why? Because decorators have to work around weather, use different materials (e.g., masonry paint), and often need towers, ladders or scaffolding to do it safely and properly.
Can I Save Money by Doing It Myself?
Sure, of course you can. For some rooms, it’s a decent shout. But if you’re thinking about doing a full house, keep this in mind:
- You’ll need the right tools (rollers, brushes, sheets, filler, primer…)Â
- It will likely take you 3x longer than a proÂ
- If it’s done wrong, you might end up paying twice - once for the paint and again for someone to fix it
DIY is great for smaller refreshes. For bigger jobs or anything involving ladders, prep work or high-spec finishes, it’s usually smarter (and safer) to bring in a pro.
Final Tips to Get the Most for Your Money
- Get 2–3 quotes. Don’t just go with the first price. You’d be surprised how much it varies.
- Ask what’s included. Is prep work in? How many coats? Who’s supplying paint?
- Go for quality over quick wins. A job done properly can last 5–10 years. A cheap job might not survive 12 months.
Wrapping it up…
Painting your house isn’t just about slapping colour on the wall, it’s about protecting your property, boosting its value and making it feel like home again.
Whether you’re budgeting for a single room or planning a top-to-bottom refresh, knowing the numbers helps you plan better—and avoid getting ripped off.
Need a hand getting started or want a quick quote?
We’ve got you covered.
Get in touch with Marsh and Hall today
Whether you're planning a full renovation or simply looking to refresh a room within your home, Marsh & Hall offer expert craftsmanship and a reliable, professional service from start to finish. Don’t hesitate to get in touch—we’ll be delighted to help bring your vision to life.
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