A decorating enquiry should cover the rooms, surfaces, existing condition and finish you want. Tell us about walls, ceilings and woodwork, and whether the room is occupied. Preparation, materials and access should be agreed in the quote before work is booked.
Start with the room, not just the paint colour
A fresh finish can change how a room feels, but a useful brief starts with what you want to improve. Is the room too dark, are marks showing through, or do the walls simply need a new colour? Photos and a short description are a good starting point.
Make a list of the surfaces you want included. Walls, ceilings, skirting boards, doors and frames are separate parts of a decorating job. A quote for walls alone should not be compared with one that also includes all the woodwork.
Agree the preparation before the finish
Point out cracks, loose paint, stains, wallpaper and recently plastered areas when you enquire. Some issues are cosmetic; others need attention before decorating. Ask what preparation is included and whether any repairs are separately priced.
Decide who will move furniture, protect the room and remove waste. It is easier to agree these details before work starts than to discover a different expectation halfway through.
A finish that suits the way you live
Think about how each room is used. A quiet bedroom and a busy hallway have different cleaning needs. Bring paint names or sample cards if you have them, but check the exact product and finish as well as the colour.
If you are refreshing several rooms, agree the order and any rooms that must stay usable. Tell us about pets, children, working from home and your preferred timing so access can be discussed.
Your planning checklist
- Rooms and approximate dimensions
- Walls, ceilings and woodwork to include
- Photos of existing damage or marks
- Paint colour and finish, if chosen
- Furniture, access and preferred timing
Questions homeowners ask
What is included in a painting and decorating quote?
That depends on the agreed scope. Ask for the surfaces, preparation, paint products, protection, waste removal and any exclusions to be listed. Extra repairs or newly discovered problems may need a revised quote.
Do I need to choose the paint before enquiring?
No. You can start with the room and the effect you want. If you have already chosen paint, provide the brand, colour and product finish so the specification is clear.
Can we confirm a price from photos?
Photos can help start the discussion, but they may not show surface condition or access accurately. Ask whether an inspection is needed before the final quote and schedule are agreed.