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If your walls are starting to look a bit shabby, or you want to totally renovate a room and give it a fresh start, it might be time to call in a plasterer. While plastering is something homeowners sometimes choose to do themselves, it's unlikely you'll get a good finish without the experience and training of a professional.

When you've chosen the right plasterer for the job, you can usually sit back and let them get on with the work. However, it's best to take a look at any rooms that are going to be plastered, so you can tell your contractor anything important before they start work. Here are the things to let them know.

1. Any damage to the existing plaster

If your walls are already plastered, they can usually be skimmed, which means applying new plaster over the top to give a smooth new finish. When the plaster is damaged, however, this might not be possible without some extra work first. With chips, cracks or crumbling sections, the old plaster may need to be removed or treated, so tell your plasterer about it. Sending photos or letting them have a look helps them decide what needs to be done.

2. Whether the walls are painted or wallpapered

Plaster can often be applied directly to painted walls, although it usually needs a bit of preparation first. If the paint is peeling, you may need to have it removed before the plastering work can begin. If you have wallpaper, it's likely that you'll need to strip it before the plaster is applied. Let your plasterer know what's on your walls, and they can advise you on your next steps.

3. If there's any damp or mould

Damp walls will cause plaster to crumble and fail to adhere properly, so the source of the damp must be dealt with. If there's any mould, the spores will stay in the walls even when they're covered with plaster, returning in the future. If you're not sure what to do, tell your plasterer about the problem. They might be able to help you or recommend someone who can.

4. Any other renovation work you have planned

For obvious reasons, plastering needs to be completed before painting or wallpapering. But there are other renovations and decoration jobs that may need to be done first. It's helpful to tell your plasterer about your plans for your home, so they can advise you if there's anything you need to finish before they arrive.

5. Potential difficulties with a room's layout

Plastering work can require a bit of extra planning in rooms with unusual shapes and tight corners, and it's best if your contractor has an idea of what to expect when they come to work. Similarly, if there's any furniture you can't move, or you have fitted features in a room you need plastering, advance warning is helpful.