What is the average cost to decorate a 3-bedroom house in the UK?

The average cost to decorate a 3-bedroom house typically ranges from £900 to £1,800, depending on labour and materials.

How much should I charge for painting and decorating a 3-bed house?

You should charge between £160 and £220 per day for labour, plus material costs that can range from £300 to £600.

What factors can increase the cost of decorating a 3-bedroom house?

Factors include scope creep, complexity of the job, additional prep work, and changes requested by the client.

How much do decorators in London charge compared to the rest of the UK?

Decorators in London typically charge 15% to 30% more than those in other regions due to higher living costs.

Decorating a 3-bed house: what to charge in 2026

Introduction

Pricing for decorating a three-bedroom house in 2026 requires careful consideration. You need to account for your labour, materials, and regional variations to ensure your quote is fair and competitive. Understanding the key factors that influence pricing will help you set a price that reflects your skills and the scope of the project.

A typical 3-bed house will usually involve painting ceilings, walls, and woodwork. The labour costs can range widely depending on your location and the complexity of the job. For example, decorators in London often charge more than those in other parts of the UK.

Labour Costs

In 2026, you can expect to charge between £160 and £220 per day for decorating work. This figure can vary based on several factors, including:

Experience: More experienced decorators may command higher rates.
Location: London typically has a higher premium. Rates here might be on the upper end of the scale, while the rest of the UK may see lower figures.
Project Complexity: Jobs that require more detailed work or extensive prep may warrant higher charges.

Materials Costs

Materials can add a significant amount to your quote. For a typical 3-bed house, you should budget around £300 to £600 for paints, primers, and other supplies. This includes:

Paints and finishes: Expect to spend £200 to £400.
Preparation materials: This includes sandpaper, fillers, and tape, which can add another £100 to £200.
Miscellaneous supplies: Brushes, rollers, and trays can cost an additional £50 to £100.

When providing quotes, make sure to itemise your material costs clearly for clients. Using a tool like Pencl can help you build a detailed quote, ensuring transparency and clarity.

Scope Creep and Time Variability

Several factors can lead to scope creep and increase the time required to complete a job:

Additional Rooms: If the client decides to include extra rooms or areas, this will require additional labour.
Prep Work: If surfaces require more prep than anticipated, this will extend the project timeline.
Client Changes: Changes requested by the client during the job can also add to the time and costs.

Be prepared to discuss these potential issues with your clients upfront to avoid misunderstandings later.

Regional Variations

Regional differences can have a significant impact on what you charge. In London, you might add a premium of 15% to 30% compared to the rest of the UK. In areas with a lower cost of living, you may need to adjust your prices accordingly to remain competitive while still covering your costs.

Conclusion

Setting the right price for decorating a 3-bed house in 2026 involves considering labour rates, material costs, and potential variations. By being clear about your pricing structure and the factors that influence it, you can build trust with your clients and ensure a successful project.