Most professionals prefer to paint walls before installing the final flooring, especially for delicate materials like hardwood or high-end vinyl. When the floor isn’t in yet (or is still unfinished), painters can move more freely, use ladders comfortably, and don’t have to stress as much about small drips.

However, it’s smart to have at least the subfloor and basic surfaces ready so you know how the room feels. Some people do one coat of paint early, then finish with a final coat after flooring, especially near skirting boards, to tidy up any scuffs.

If flooring is already installed, you’ll just need better protection – drop cloths, plastic sheets and more careful taping. It’s doable, but more effort.

So, in an ideal sequence: rough work → ceiling and walls painted → flooring installed → final touch-ups to paint and skirting. That order protects your new floors and still delivers a clean finish.