Relish a challenge? - Do it yourself

If you have enough time on your hands, a fondness for DIY and a keen eye for detail, then you could redecorate yourself. Not only will you save a hefty sum of money but you will also have the pleasure of admiring your own handiwork for years to come.

However, before you start striping the surfaces of your home, ask yourself what really appeals to you. Is it the redecoration work itself (fiddly preparation, wallpapering around radiators, etc.) or simply the result?

There is a lot more to painting and hanging wallpaper than choosing colour schemes. Unless you are sure of what you are doing, then leave the decorating to a professional.

Questions to ask your painter and decorator

• Are you insured?
• What does the estimate include?
• How long will the job take to complete?
• Is there any preparation work I can do?