Yes. Wallpapers with large pattern repeats (especially offset or drop-match patterns) generate significantly more offcuts and layout waste compared to plain rolls or straight-match patterns. If the BOQ was priced on a standard pattern or assumed minimal repeat, and the actual product introduced later has a large or complex repeat, the contractor may claim for the extra rolls and labour through a variation.

Yes - unless the BOQ or specifications allowed for preparation of this kind. Glossy or uneven substrates can prevent wallpaper paste from bonding correctly and may telegraph through thin papers. Lining paper improves adhesion and finish quality. If not stated in the original scope, this preparatory layer should be measured separately in square metres, with adhesive and labour accounted for.

Absolutely. Textile or fabric-backed wallcoverings demand careful cutting, non-stretch adhesives, additional support during application, and longer drying times. They also often require clean gloves, rollers instead of brushes, and more complex joint finishing. If the BOQ was based on paper-backed vinyl or basic wallpapers, this change materially affects labour and should be measured with a separate rate.

Yes. Intricate features—like reveals, pilasters, service risers, or boxed-in beams—create awkward junctions that demand precise cutting and additional handling. While general paperhanging is measured in square metres, irregular surfaces or multiple plane changes often justify an extra-over allowance to reflect the increased time, waste, and setting-out complexity.

If the fittings were not removed or isolated before hanging, and the decorator is expected to cut, trim, and finish around them in-situ, this introduces a higher level of risk and precision. Although minor socket cutouts are usually deemed included, extensive detailing around live fittings—especially where the paper is textured or patterned—can justify an extra-over rate or claim, particularly if not disclosed in the BOQ.

Yes. Fresh plaster can absorb paste too quickly, preventing proper adhesion. Priming or sizing walls ensures even porosity and provides a uniform surface for paste activation. If not included in the paperhanging rate and the surface condition wasn’t disclosed at tender stage, this preparatory process should be measured separately and described with materials, method, and application area.

This depends on the circumstance. If the substrate condition (e.g., oil-based paint, powdery finish) was not identified in advance or made available during tender, and no preparatory allowance was made, the rework may be claimable. The QS should assess whether the failure was due to site conditions or poor application. Where conditions were unsuitable for wallpaper adhesion, the contractor may reasonably recover costs for stripping, prepping, and reinstallation.

Yes. Metallic, foil-backed, or high-sheen wallcoverings are unforgiving—highlighting even minor joint laps, bubbles, or alignment issues. These materials often require overlap-and-trim methods, precise wall preparation, and joint rolling. The demand for seamlessness increases labour time and skill level, and if this finish standard wasn’t included in the original BOQ, it qualifies for a higher rate or extra-over item.

Yes. Termination lines between finishes (e.g., vinyl to paint) require exact measuring, masking, and sometimes trims or sealant. If the BOQ assumed full-height papering or didn’t allow for finish junction detailing, this split finish arrangement—including any capping strips—can be measured separately or priced as an extra-over for the additional labour and coordination involved.

Yes - if the directional change was introduced post-installation and was not part of the original scope, the cost of removal, surface repair, and reinstallation is recoverable. Wallpaper directionality affects layout, joints, and roll usage. This is a design-driven change and not a contractor error, making it a clear variation with new quantities to be measured and priced accordingly.

Yes. Digitally printed murals require precise alignment and rely on true walls and square corners. If wall irregularities cause misalignment and the decorator must adjust each drop to preserve continuity—sometimes trimming each panel to match—it adds significant layout time, careful measuring, and often a reprint of damaged panels. Where this wasn’t allowed for in the BOQ or known during tender, it becomes a measurable variation, particularly for high-spec interiors.

Yes. Bathrooms and wet zones often require fungicidal adhesives, waterproof primers, or modified pastes to prevent failure due to humidity. If the BOQ didn’t specify the adhesive type or location-specific conditions, and a more robust product was used based on site requirements or manufacturer recommendations, the contractor may claim for the cost of upgraded materials and application.

Not if the issue stems from a latent site condition such as rising damp, leaks, or incomplete drying of wet trades (e.g., plaster or screed). The decorator can’t be held liable for failure caused by environmental or substrate conditions outside their control. Rework and associated materials may be claimable, especially if the wall condition was not disclosed or tested beforehand. Moisture testing prior to application is best practice in such cases.

Yes. Heavier wallcoverings require stronger, often ready-mixed or non-slip adhesives, longer paste activation, and more precise handling to prevent sliding or bubbling. They also increase installation time per drop and may require double-cutting at joints. If the switch was made post-tender, the contractor can claim for both material and labour differentials due to the change in product class.

Yes - if the rework was caused by another trade (e.g., careless filling, sanding, or painting), the decorator has a legitimate claim for remedial work. Lining paper is sensitive to scuffing, gouging, and moisture, and must often be redone if damaged. Where the decorator’s original installation was sound, and the defect arose from follow-on work, a site instruction and remeasurement may be issued to recover the cost of repair or replacement.

Despite its industrial application, this still falls under Paperhanging as defined in, provided the material is flexible, adhesive-fixed, and supplied in roll or sheet format. High-spec vinyl wallcoverings with welded seams are a recognised part of hygienic wall finish systems. You should:

• Measure the area in m²,
• Clearly describe the wallcovering as ‘heavy-duty vinyl with heat-welded seams’,
• Specify the location (e.g., commercial kitchen, wet area),
• Note any corner wrapping, coved skirtings, or joint trims if required.

This distinguishes the work from rigid wall linings (e.g., PVC cladding panels), which would fall under another trade.

• 1. First, a lining paper is applied to the wall,
• 2. Then a patterned wallpaper is hung over it.

When a lining paper is specified as a separate preparatory layer, it must be measured as a separate item under Paperhanging, in accordance with the SSMBW.

This is not considered part of the standard preparation for wallpaper hanging unless:

• It is light-duty, applied only at the contractor’s discretion,
• Or included in a manufacturer’s installation specification as a system.

In this case, since the lining paper is a specified requirement, it should be:

• Measured in m² separately from the finished wallpaper,
• Clearly described in the BOQ as a preparatory base layer,
• And coordinated with the decorator’s pricing (particularly where high-end wallcoverings require a flawless base).

Do not bundle the lining and wallpaper into one item unless explicitly stated in the tender documents.