Abstract: The invention relates to a method for coating substrate surfaces, in particular for influencing the hydrophilic or hydrophobic properties thereof. According to the invention, the above effect may be achieved easily and not at great expense and furthermore with a removal of polymer which is not deposited on the surface, whereby a polymer with derivatised hydroxyl and/or carboxyl groups and/or CN, halogen and/or amino substituents is brought into contact with the surface as a solution, the derivatised hydroxyl and/or carboxyl groups or the CN, halogen or amino substituents are subjected to solvolysis, thus converting the polymer into a form with reduced solubility.