Planning a repaint in an occupied block

Map the routes people use every day

Before setting dates, walk from the entrance to each floor and look at how people actually move through the building. Note narrow landings, lift doors, entry panels, post boxes and places where pushchairs or deliveries need room. Ask the building manager to identify access requirements and agree how escape routes and door operation will be maintained while work is under way.

Include walls, ceilings, skirting, door frames and other items in the scope only where the client has agreed them. Flag building signage, alarm equipment, door hardware and similar items for protection. If there are different ownership or lease responsibilities for doors or other surfaces, confirm the boundary of the work before the quote is finalised.

Give residents dates they can use

Tell residents which floors are affected and when work is expected to start and finish. Explain where they may find protection, wet paint or temporary changes to access, and name someone they can contact about access needs. A short update if the order of work changes is often more useful than a long notice with vague dates.

Where space is tight, phase the work by floor or landing so that people can still get through. Include drying time in the programme, especially on surfaces people are likely to touch. Agree storage and clean-up arrangements so equipment and materials do not build up in shared routes.

Decide where durability matters most

Entrances, corners and the wall beside stair handrails tend to pick up marks sooner. Ask for a finish suitable for the surface and the cleaning routine. If the existing finish is glossy, loose or heavily marked, have the decorator explain the preparation and confirm whether repairs or stain treatment are included.

Test the colour in the entrance and on a landing if light levels differ. Keep a note of the colour reference, product and sheen once agreed. That record is particularly helpful when individual floors are repaired or touched up later.

Inspect the work as each area reopens

Check coverage and the agreed finishes, then make sure floor protection has been removed when safe and shared areas are clear. Record snags by floor and location. Give residents a completion update and pass the finish references to the team responsible for future maintenance.