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What a painter and decorator does
A painter and decorator prepares walls, ceilings, woodwork and other surfaces, then applies paint, varnish, wallpaper and decorative finishes. Preparation — filling, sanding, priming and masking — is as important as the final coat for a durable, clean result.
The work covers domestic, commercial and new-build settings, indoors and outdoors. Painters select the right materials for each surface and condition, work tidily around occupied spaces and finish to an agreed standard.
Core responsibilities
- Preparing surfaces by cleaning, filling, sanding and priming.
- Masking and protecting floors, fittings and adjacent areas.
- Mixing and applying paints, coatings and varnishes.
- Hanging wallpaper and applying decorative finishes.
- Choosing the right materials for each surface and condition.
- Cleaning up, storing materials safely and clearing the work area.
Skills and qualities
- A neat, steady hand and an eye for a clean finish.
- Knowledge of surfaces, paints, coatings and preparation.
- Attention to detail and consistent quality.
- Working safely at height with access equipment.
- Tidiness and care in occupied or finished spaces.
- Reliability and good time management on jobs.
Typical employers and settings
- Painting, decorating and finishing contractors.
- Construction and refurbishment firms.
- Facilities-management and maintenance teams.
- Housing providers and property managers.
- Domestic and commercial clients.
How the role is recruited
- Roles are filled directly or through trade and labour agencies.
- Screening looks at experience, any qualifications and right to work.
- Interviews are practical and may include a sample of finished work.
- Employers often check references and any required safety cards.
- Onboarding covers site rules, materials and the specific tasks.
Documents involved
- A job description setting out the tasks and standards.
- Proof of relevant experience or qualifications.
- An employment contract or assignment terms for agency work.
- An offer letter confirming role, site and start date.
- Right-to-work and identity checks as required.
- A safety induction and onboarding checklist.
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