What actually drives the cost of a decorating job
Two quotes for the same rooms can differ enormously and both be honest. The gap is almost always in preparation, access and the coating system — not in the number of coats promised.
Preparation is the biggest variable
Sound walls needing a wash and light fill sit at one end. Stripping failed coatings, repairing plaster and stabilising chalky substrates sit at the other, and that work is invisible in the finished result but very visible in the price.
Access and working height
Stairwells, atria, high-level ceilings and exterior elevations need towers, scaffold or powered access. That cost is often the single biggest line on an exterior quote.
Occupancy and working hours
Working around trading hours, patients, pupils or tenants means more setting up and breaking down each day, and sometimes out-of-hours rates. It buys continuity of business, which is usually worth it.
Specification and colour changes
Dark to light, strong colours, high-sheen finishes and specialist coatings all add coats or products. Agreeing the spec before quoting is the only way to compare bids fairly.
Common questions
Why is one decorating quote so much cheaper?
Usually a lighter preparation scope or a cheaper coating system. Ask both quotes to state prep and products explicitly.
Do you charge day rates or fixed prices?
Most work is quoted as a fixed price against a defined scope so there are no surprises.
Does colour choice affect price?
It can — strong colours and big tone changes sometimes need an extra coat.
Is scaffolding included in exterior quotes?
We state access arrangements explicitly rather than leaving them ambiguous.
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Next step
Ask for a scoped quote that itemises preparation, access and the coating system.
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