Size up the job

The first thing to do, of course, is a measurement of the surface area of the job: that’s walls and trim, measured down to the square centimetre, allowing for windows, doorways and fittings. Only with these figures can you agree with the client on the amount of paint needed.

 

Preparing the space

This is an area that clients often forget, so making it clear in the quotation will help your project run smoothly. Rooms may contain furniture that needs to be removed and stored or protected. Quote for any costs involved.

 

Assess the surfaces

Check the current state of all surfaces – walls, wood and metalwork – to be decorated and consider the time and materials involved in preparing them. This may include time-consuming jobs such as stripping wallpaper, sanding back woodwork and plaster skim finishes.

 

Agree on the finish

Once you’ve agreed on the surfaces to be included, you’ll need to settle on the level of finish. Offer your expertise to the client, recommending the type of paint, number of coats and any primers or undercoats that might be needed.

 

Selecting the paint

Finally, make a list of all paints to be used – including their colour codes – and which surfaces each type of paint will go on. With all these elements in place, you’re ready to prepare an accurate quote.

Learn how to create a watertight client agreement.