Cost-cutting or creating problems: when a cheap quote costs more

There’s a huge demand for decorating work right now, and that has drawn a lot of people advertising their services on social media. Some arrive with little or no trade knowledge, offer an attractive price, then disappear when the job becomes more complicated. Others start work and deliver a poor finish, leaving homeowners to pick up the pieces. This article explains how cutting corners to save money can become a false economy and how to avoid costly mistakes.

Why the cheapest quote is not always the best value

Automatically choosing the cheapest quote can create problems for several reasons. A low price might exclude materials, reflect inexperience, be a part-time hobby rather than a trade, or come from someone who simply isn’t a decorator. Before you accept any offer, ask:

• Does the quote include a clear specification of the work?
• Will the trader’s insurance cover my home and any accidents?
• Can I expect the quality I want — and is that reflected in the paperwork?

A professional decorator should provide a written quotation, a full job specification and clear terms and conditions. These documents set expectations, reduce the chance of hidden charges and provide a reference if something goes wrong. Tradespeople who belong to recognised schemes often offer additional reassurance; for example, members of the Dulux Select network can back their workmanship with a Dulux Select Guarantee.

Buying materials yourself: sensible or risky?

Supplying your own materials can work well if you buy appropriate, good-quality products. However, apparent savings on retail tins can evaporate if the product requires more coats or extra preparation to achieve the desired finish. If a decorator has to apply additional coats because a cheaper paint won’t cover, the time and labour cost can outweigh any initial saving.

I have no problem with customers supplying materials, but I make it clear from the outset that if the materials supplied are insufficient for the specified finish I will charge for the additional work required. There are differences between retail and trade paint ranges, and over the years I’ve used retail paints successfully — but not all products perform equally. Some decorators add a modest markup on materials to cover handling and carriage; others supply materials themselves because they know which products give the best finish and save the client time. Supplying materials can be a good option, provided everyone agrees the exact specification in writing.

Just because someone painted a fence, it doesn’t mean they can decorate a living room

Domestic decorating demands careful preparation. A fence or shed painted quickly outdoors is a very different job to interior decoration where dust control, surface preparation and finishing standards matter. Many professional decorators have invested in dustless sanding equipment to give a superior finish and to protect clients’ homes from dust and debris. That investment matters when you want a lasting result.

One common shortfall is the “gloss on gloss” approach: quickly brushing over woodwork without the correct preparation. When gloss is applied over existing gloss without proper sanding or priming, it can peel off in sheets later on — creating unforeseen delays and extra expense. Good preparation takes time, but it prevents problems down the line.

How to choose a decorator who delivers value

Weigh up the whole offer, not just the headline price. Use the following checklist when assessing quotes:

• Written quotation and full job specification
• Clear terms and conditions
• Public liability insurance and confirmation it covers the work
• Guarantees or warranty on workmanship
• Evidence of relevant memberships or accreditations
• Examples of previous work and client testimonials

Membership of recognised bodies and schemes shows a decorator’s commitment to standards and training. I provide a two-year guarantee on my workmanship backed by Dulux, and I’m a member of the Painting and Decorating Association. I’m also fully insured and aim to be open and honest about what I offer. That doesn’t mean I’m perfect or that other tradespeople aren’t equally capable — but it does mean I can show you exactly what the job will involve.

Common red flags to watch for

• No written quote or only a verbal price agreed on first contact
• Tradesperson asks you to supply brushes and rollers without discussing materials beforehand
• No evidence of insurance or membership of professional bodies
• Unwillingness to provide references or examples of recent work

Get the quality you expect — and protect your investment

Ultimately, saving a little at the outset can become expensive later if work has to be redone or results deteriorate quickly. Ask questions, insist on written details and check credentials. If you’d like a clear, written quotation and a full job specification for your project, get in touch and I’ll be happy to discuss your requirements and provide a tailored quote.

Find out more about who I am and how I work on the About page, or contact me directly to arrange an estimate via the Contact page.