What to Check Before Removing Wallpaper Adhesive

Record whether wallpaper remains, what part of the wall is exposed, when the covering was installed if known, and any previous repair or paint work. Check renovation records and ask the owner or contractor before disturbing an older or unknown finish. Do not remove a sample or scrape a surface to identify it.

If the wall may contain a hazardous coating, or the surface is damaged, damp or crumbling, stop and contact the relevant local authority or a qualified hazardous-material/building professional. Do not sand, dry-scrape, drill, heat or wet an unknown wall as a test.

For an identified modern wall finish, ask the wallpaper, paint or wall-product maker for compatible instructions. For uncertain materials, historical finishes or extensive work, get a qualified building or restoration assessment. Request a written scope, proposed products, surface protection, exclusions and repair responsibility.

A cleaning service is not wallpaper stripping, paint removal, plaster repair, hazardous-material assessment or decorating. Confirm the surface has been assessed and any restoration work is complete before requesting ordinary cleaning nearby.