Painting and decorating, questions answered

Yes, I work on listed buildings regularly across Brighton and Hove. Bear in mind that some changes to a listed building, like altering colours or materials, can need listed building consent from the council. I can talk you through what is likely to need it, and I work sympathetically so the building keeps its character.

Yes. Older, solid-wall properties need finishes that let the wall breathe, otherwise you trap moisture and cause more harm than good. On period and render work I use breathable products where they are needed, matched to the wall.

Yes. Sash windows, doors, skirting, spindles and cornicing, I prepare them properly, repair what needs repairing, and finish them to last. Restoring tired or damaged period woodwork is part of most of the older homes I work on.

Yes. A lot of Brighton and Hove sits in conservation areas, and the right colours make a real difference on a period property. If you are not sure, I will talk through options that suit the building and the street, and I can bring colour cards.

It depends on the size and condition of the building. A single room is a day or two, but a full exterior or period property repaint is a bigger job and often runs anywhere from two to six weeks. I give you a clear timeline with your quote so there are no surprises.

Exterior work is best in the drier, milder months, roughly spring through autumn, so the surfaces are dry and the paint cures properly. Being on the coast, the weather matters, so I plan exterior jobs around it and will give you a realistic window.

Taller properties and blocks usually need scaffolding or access equipment, and I arrange that as part of the job. I keep the site tidy, protect what needs protecting, and work to cause as little disruption as possible while it is up.

Preparation is most of the job. I scrape back flaking paint, make good damaged render, treat the cause of any damp where I can, and prime properly before any topcoat goes on. That is what makes a finish last rather than just look good on day one.

Yes, I am fully insured for all painting and decorating work, and I am happy to share the details before a job starts.

Yes, communal and block work is a specialism. I handle hallways, stairwells and full exterior schemes for managed blocks across Brighton and Hove, and I work around residents to keep disruption down.

Section 20 is the consultation a freeholder or managing agent runs with leaseholders before larger works. I provide the detailed specification and scope you need for that process, then plan and carry out the works around the agreed timeline.

Yes. I carry full public liability insurance and provide risk assessments and method statements for communal and block work on request, before the job begins.

I plan access and scaffolding around the building and its residents, keep communal areas safe and clear, give notice of what is happening and when, and tidy up daily so the building stays usable throughout.

Yes, I can put you in touch with freeholders and managing agents I have worked with on communal projects.