How Much to Paint a 3 Bedroom House UK

Painting a three bedroom house in the UK is one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to refresh a property’s appearance, whether you are preparing to sell, moving in or simply giving your home a new look. The cost can vary significantly depending on the condition of the walls, the size of the rooms, the level of preparation needed and whether you are doing it yourself or hiring a professional decorator.

Understanding the breakdown of costs for both interior and exterior painting will help you plan your budget more accurately and avoid hidden expenses.

Average Cost to Paint a 3 Bedroom House

For a full interior paint job of a typical three bedroom house, the average cost in the UK ranges from £2,000 to £3,500 when using a professional decorator. This usually includes painting walls, ceilings, woodwork such as skirting boards, doors and door frames, and any feature areas like bannisters or dado rails. The price will also depend on the type of paint used and whether premium finishes or specialist paints are required for kitchens, bathrooms or high-traffic areas.

If you are painting the property yourself, the cost can be significantly lower. A DIY job might cost between £300 and £700 in materials, depending on the brand and quality of paint chosen. However, this does not include your time and effort, and the finish may not match the results achieved by a professional.

Exterior Painting Costs

Painting the exterior of a three bedroom house can cost between £1,000 and £2,500, depending on the surface area, height of the building and the condition of the existing paintwork. Houses with rendered walls, pebbledash or old brickwork may require more prep work, such as scraping, washing down and priming. Scaffolding or mobile towers might also be needed for safe access, particularly for two-storey homes, which can add to the overall cost.

Weather conditions, surface repairs and the presence of mould or algae can affect timelines and pricing. It is often recommended to carry out exterior painting during the drier spring or summer months to ensure a lasting finish.

What Influences the Cost

Several factors can influence how much you will pay to paint a three bedroom house. These include the total surface area, the height of ceilings, the number of coats required and whether wallpaper needs removing or repairs must be made before painting begins. Using stain-blocking primers, feature wall colours or specialist finishes like eggshell or satinwood can also increase the final bill.

The location of your home matters too. Labour costs in London and the South East tend to be higher than in other regions. Likewise, the availability of decorators, seasonal demand and whether the house is furnished can all impact the price.

Hiring a Professional vs DIY

Hiring a professional decorator ensures the job is completed to a high standard, often within a quicker timeframe than attempting it yourself. Professionals can handle surface prep, protect flooring and furniture, and leave you with a clean and polished result. However, if you are confident with tools and have time on your hands, a DIY approach can save a considerable amount of money, provided you are willing to put in the effort and do the necessary preparation.

Timeframes to Expect

A professional team will typically take five to ten days to complete the full interior painting of a three bedroom house, depending on access, drying times and the scale of the job. Exterior painting can take three to seven days depending on weather conditions and wall surfaces.

Conclusion

Painting a three bedroom house in the UK can cost anywhere from a few hundred pounds for a DIY job to upwards of £5,000 for a full interior and exterior professional finish. The total price depends on the scope of work, materials chosen and whether you are hiring decorators. Investing in quality paint and skilled labour can make a big difference to the final appearance and longevity of the finish, especially if you are preparing your home for sale or long-term enjoyment.