Before the walk-through.

Areas, timing, furniture, low-odour paint, and how a free estimate actually works. If your question is about a specific room, send the note.

Where do you work?

Islington and the neighbouring postcodes: N1, N5, N7, N16, and selected jobs in E8, EC1, and WC1. If the journey is awkward we will say so before the visit.

What happens at a free estimate?

A walk-through, usually under an hour. We measure, note repairs, talk about colour and sheen, and send a written scope. There is no obligation and no follow-up sequence of emails.

Do you move furniture?

Small pieces, yes. Large wardrobes, pianos, and anything fixed stay put and get protected. If a room needs clearing properly we will tell you before we book the dates.

Can you use low-odour or low-VOC paint?

Yes, and we do by default in bedrooms and nurseries. We still ventilate. Low odour is not the same as instant reoccupation, especially on woodwork.

How long does a room take?

A bedroom is often two to four days once prep is honest. A reception with repairs is longer. Drying time is part of the programme, not a delay.

Will you paper over existing paint?

Only if the paint is sound and the wall is flat enough. Failing paper comes off. We would rather line a wall than hang a good pattern over a bad one.

When can exteriors be done?

Roughly April to early October, and only inside a dry forecast. We will move a start date rather than paint masonry that is going to be rained on.

Are you insured?

Yes. Public liability and the ordinary cover a decorator should carry. Certificates are available with the estimate.

How do you take payment?

A booking amount to hold dates, then the balance on completion of the agreed scope. Materials are named in the estimate. We do not ask for the full sum up front.