Location & Target
Monthly Costs
Annual Costs
Brushes, rollers, dust sheets, spray equipment, ladders
Workwear, overalls, masking tape, fillers, primers (consumables)
Non-Billable Days
Profit & Comparison
What is the average painter and decorator day rate in the UK?
Painter and decorator day rates typically range from £140 to £200 per day nationally, making them one of the lower day-rate trades. However, London and the South East command £190–£280/day. Specialist painters (Venetian plaster, murals, high-end properties) often charge considerably more.
Painter and decorator day rates by region (2025)
| Region | Typical Day Rate | Typical Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| London | £190–£280 | £38–£56 |
| South East | £165–£245 | £33–£49 |
| South West | £145–£215 | £29–£43 |
| Midlands | £140–£200 | £28–£40 |
| North England | £125–£185 | £25–£37 |
| Wales | £120–£175 | £24–£35 |
| Scotland | £125–£185 | £25–£37 |
| Northern Ireland | £115–£170 | £23–£34 |
Why painters often undercharge
Painting looks straightforward, so customers often push back on rates. But the hidden costs add up: prep work (filling, sanding, masking) is time-consuming and unpaid if underestimated, brushes and rollers are consumables that need replacing, and drying time between coats can't always be used productively. Use this calculator to know your floor price and hold your rate.