3 February 2026 · 5 min read
Interior painting quotes can vary widely between contractors for the same flat or office — often because the scope being quoted isn't actually the same. Understanding what drives cost helps you compare quotations properly.
Surface condition
A freshly plastered wall needs different preparation than a wall being repainted over old, cracked paint. Crack filling, putty work, and sanding all add labour time before a single coat of paint is applied — and this is usually the biggest variable in a quote.
Paint system and finish
Washable, low-VOC, and premium emulsion paints cost more per litre than basic distemper, but often work out better value over the life of the finish — particularly in kitchens, bathrooms and high-touch areas. The number of coats specified also affects both cost and final finish quality.
Area, access and occupancy
Ceiling height, furniture that needs to be moved and protected, and whether the space is occupied during work all affect labour time. An occupied home or office generally costs more to paint carefully than an empty one, simply because of the extra protection and care involved.
The most reliable way to get an accurate cost is a site visit and an itemised quotation — covering area, preparation, materials and labour separately — rather than a flat per-square-foot number quoted over the phone.
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