It's the first question every homeowner asks, and the honest answer is: it depends on your home's size, condition and access. But you can still budget accurately if you know what drives the price. Below is what we typically see across Wellington homes in 2026.
Interior painting costs
Interior pricing is usually quoted per room, based on wall area, ceiling height and the number of coats needed. A standard room with walls, ceiling and trims typically falls between $800 and $2,200. Rooms with higher stud heights, dark-to-light colour changes, or heavy wallpaper removal sit toward the top of that range.
- Standard bedroom or lounge: $800 – $1,400
- Kitchen or bathroom (more cutting-in, less wall area): $600 – $1,100
- Open-plan living/dining with high ceilings: $1,800 – $2,200+
Exterior painting costs
Exterior jobs are priced on total surface area, substrate type and access - a two-storey villa on a steep Wellington section costs more than a single-level home on flat ground, mainly due to scaffolding. For an average three-bedroom weatherboard home, expect a range of $9,000 to $22,000 for a full repaint including wash, prep, priming bare timber and a two-coat topcoat.
- Single-level, easy access: $9,000 – $14,000
- Two-storey or steep-section homes: $14,000 – $22,000
- Plaster or brick exteriors: priced separately, often lower prep cost than timber
Roof painting costs
Roof jobs depend on roof area, pitch and how much rust or lichen treatment is required. Typical Wellington roof painting sits between $3,500 and $9,000, including a full wash, rust treatment, fastener touch-ups and a two-coat system.
What moves your price up or down
- Access: scaffolding, steep sites and multi-storey homes add cost.
- Surface condition: flaking paint, rot or heavy mould needs more prep time.
- Colour change: going from a dark colour to a light one (or vice versa) can mean an extra coat.
- Paint system: premium coatings cost more upfront but last longer in Wellington's climate.
Getting an accurate number
Ballpark ranges are useful for budgeting, but the only way to get a firm figure is a site visit or video walkthrough. We measure up, check the substrate condition, and send a written, fixed-price quote - usually within 48 hours.
If you'd like a free, no-obligation quote for your Wellington home, get in touch and we'll organise a time that suits you.