A painting cost calculator provides a budgeting guide based on the type and scope of work and the prices used in the calculation. Separate labour costs from materials and possible extras. ROT is conditional and applies only to eligible labour. The result is an estimate, not a binding quote.
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Painting cost calculator: estimate your painting costs with ROT in 2026
Dorde Lalic founder and ownerLinkedIn
Project photo from Hjärup during exterior renovation and cladding work.
Quick answer
- Measure the area to be treated, not automatically the home’s floor area.
- Read which cost items the calculator result covers.
- Request a written quote confirming scope, price and any extras.
How does the calculator estimate painting costs?
For work priced per square metre, the basic calculation is treated area × price per m². Other work may be priced per item. Materials and extras need separating from labour costs.
For NLL Måleri’s interior wall and ceiling painting in north-west Skåne, labour costs 250–437.50 SEK/m² including VAT before any applicable ROT deduction. Painting materials are listed separately at 187.50–250 SEK/m² including VAT. Filling and other work need confirming in the scope.
Use the cost calculator for your budget and read what the interior painting price includes before comparing results.
What information do I need to calculate the price?
You need to know which surfaces or items will be treated and their size or number. Enter the correct unit for the work. Photos, surface condition and the desired preparation are then needed to assess a quote.
| Labour | Relevant measurement |
|---|---|
| Wall painting | Combined wall length × height; list doors and windows. |
| Ceiling painting | Ceiling area. Do not automatically include the ceiling in the wall area. |
| Exterior wall painting | The façade area to be painted, divided by relevant surface type. |
| Windows and doors | Number, type and which parts will be treated. |
A rectangular room measuring 3 × 4 metres with a 2.5-metre ceiling has 35 m² of wall area and 12 m² of ceiling area: 47 m² in total before deducting openings. Its floor area is only 12 m². Include the ceiling only if it will also be painted.
How much does ROT save me in the result?
ROT can reduce eligible labour costs by up to 30% if you meet the conditions. Materials and travel are not included in the deduction basis. Check the conditions and your remaining allowance with Skatteverket. Businesses and housing associations should not include a private ROT deduction.
| Item | Lower labour price | Higher labour price |
|---|---|---|
| Price per m² before ROT | 250 SEK | 437.50 SEK |
| Labour before ROT | 11,750 SEK | 20,562.50 SEK |
| Labour after full 30% ROT | 8,225 SEK | 14,393.75 SEK |
This worked example uses NLL Måleri’s interior painting labour prices. Materials, filling and other extras are not included in the table. The deduction assumes all the stated labour costs are eligible and within your applicable conditions and remaining allowance.
What is the difference between a calculated price and a binding quote?
A calculated price estimates your budget; a quote states what the contractor offers for a defined scope. Check what is actually included before accepting a price. An area calculation alone cannot assess damage or necessary extras.
- Which surfaces and tasks are covered?
- What preparation and materials are included?
- Is the price fixed, approximate or time-based?
- How are any extras ordered and priced?
- What timescales have been agreed?
The Swedish Consumer Agency recommends a written agreement. Our quote request checklist helps you gather the information.
What do I do after receiving an estimate?
First check the calculation’s scope, then use the result as the basis for a quote request. Describe the work you want, measurements, surface condition and preferred period. Attach photos if you have them.
For walls and ceilings, read about interior painting. For the outside of your house, see exterior wall painting. You can then request a quote for your project. Final scope, price and timing must be confirmed for the job.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate the cost of repainting my house?
Measure the surfaces to be painted and separate labour from materials and extras. Use the calculator result as a budgeting guide and have the quote confirm the scope.
Is the ROT deduction automatically included in the price?
Read the result’s before- and after-ROT labels. A displayed deduction is a conditional worked example, not confirmation that you qualify.
Are paint and materials included in the calculated price?
Read which items the result covers. NLL Måleri’s labour prices and painting materials are listed separately. Do not assume a labour total covers materials or extras.
Is the calculator price binding?
No. The calculator provides an estimate. A quote needs to confirm the scope, price and conditions before you accept it.
What does painting a 70-square-metre flat cost?
A floor area of 70 m² is not enough to calculate painting costs. Measure walls and ceilings room by room and state what preparation is needed.
What does a painter cost per hour after ROT?
NLL Måleri’s labour rate is 687.50 SEK per hour including VAT before ROT. With the full 30% ROT deduction on eligible labour, it becomes 481.25 SEK per hour. The deduction requires you to meet the conditions and have allowance remaining. Materials and extras are not included in the labour rate.
What does repainting an average-sized house cost?
Floor area is not enough to calculate exterior wall painting costs. State the façade area, material, condition and access so labour, materials and extras can be assessed.
Can I reduce the price by preparing myself?
Agree with the painter what you can do before work begins. Specify, for example, who moves furniture and provides access. The price’s scope needs confirming after that agreement.
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