Choosing the right painter and decorator is one of those decisions that seems straightforward until it goes wrong. A poor finish, missed prep work, or a tradesperson who disappears halfway through the job can turn a simple project into a costly nightmare. Getting it right from the start saves time, money, and a great deal of frustration.
Start With Personal Recommendations
Word of mouth remains the most reliable way to find a good decorator. Ask neighbours, friends, or family who have recently had work done. If someone you trust is happy with the result, that is a far stronger signal than any online advert.
When you get a recommendation, ask specific questions. Did the decorator show up on time every day? Did they finish within the agreed timeframe? Did the final cost match the quote? These details matter far more than a polished website.
Check Online Reviews Carefully
If personal recommendations are not available, look at review platforms such as Checkatrade, Rated People, Houzz, and Trustpilot. Read the reviews in full rather than just glancing at the star rating. Look for comments about punctuality, cleanliness, communication, and quality of finish.
Be cautious of profiles with only a handful of five-star reviews and nothing else. A credible, experienced decorator will have a track record that spans years, not weeks. Look for patterns in the feedback. Consistent praise about prep work and attention to detail tells you far more than a single glowing review.
Ask to See Previous Work
Any decorator worth hiring will have a portfolio. Ask to see photographs of completed projects, particularly work that is similar to yours. If you want a flawless eggshell finish on woodwork, ask whether they have done that before. If you are considering a specialist finish such as limewash, colour washing, or decorative plasterwork, you need to see evidence that they can actually deliver it.
Some decorators will offer references from previous clients. Take them up on it. A quick five-minute phone call with a past customer can give you a clear picture of what working with that person is actually like.
Get Multiple Quotes and Read Them Properly
Always obtain at least three written quotes before making a decision. Do not simply go with the cheapest. A low price often reflects corners being cut, inferior materials, or a decorator who underquotes to win work and then charges extras throughout the job.
Read each quote carefully. Does it specify the number of coats? Does it include preparation such as filling, sanding, and priming? Does it mention the brand or quality of paint being used? A detailed quote signals a professional who has thought the job through. A vague one is a warning sign.
If one quote is significantly lower than the others, ask why. There is usually a reason.
Assess Their Professionalism From the First Contact
How a decorator behaves before they start the job tells you a great deal about how they will behave during it. Do they turn up on time for the quote? Do they walk through the space carefully and ask questions? Do they follow up promptly with a written quote?
A decorator who is difficult to pin down, slow to respond, or vague about details before the job has even begun is unlikely to become more reliable once they are on site.
Check Their Insurance
A professional painter and decorator should carry public liability insurance. This protects you if they accidentally damage your property during the job. Do not be embarrassed to ask for proof. Any reputable tradesperson will have no issue providing it.
Discuss the Details Before Work Begins
Before work starts, agree on everything in writing. This includes the start date, expected completion date, total cost, payment schedule, and the specific paints or materials being used. Agree on whether they will move furniture, how they will protect floors and fixtures, and what their process is for cleaning up at the end of each day.
A good decorator will welcome this conversation. It protects both parties and sets clear expectations from the outset.
Trust Your Instincts
After all the research, quotes, and conversations, trust how you feel about the person. You are inviting them into your home, often for several days or longer. If something feels off during the quoting process, it rarely improves once the job is underway.
The best decorators take genuine pride in their work. That pride shows in how they talk about previous jobs, how thoroughly they assess your project, and how clearly they communicate throughout. When you find that combination, you have found the right person for the job.