How to compare house painting quotes in Australia
What separates a good painting quote from a cheap one: preparation, coats, paint grade, inclusions and licensing — so you can compare painters fairly.
Key takeaways
- Preparation is where painting quotes differ most, and where cheap jobs fail first.
- Check the number of coats, paint brand and grade are written into the quote.
- NSW and Queensland license painters above a set job value, so check the register.
Why painting quotes vary so much
Two painters can look at the same house and quote very differently because they are pricing different jobs. One allows a day of washing, scraping, filling and sanding; the other plans to paint over what is there. The finish may look similar on day one, but preparation decides whether it lasts.
What a good quote spells out
Ask every painter to put these in writing so the quotes can be lined up:
- Which rooms, walls, ceilings, doors, trims and exterior areas are included
- Surface preparation: washing, scraping, filling, sanding and priming
- Number of coats for each surface
- Paint brand, product range and sheen level
- Colour changes, feature walls or dark-to-light coverage
- Furniture moving, floor protection and clean-up
- Scaffolding or height access for exteriors
- Timeline, weather allowances and warranty on workmanship
Licensing and insurance
In New South Wales and Queensland, painters need a licence for work above a set value, and other states may require registration for larger building work. Check the licence on your state regulator's register and ask for a certificate of currency for public liability insurance before work starts.
Older homes and lead paint
Paint on Australian homes built before 1970 may contain lead. If your home is older, ask how the painter will test for lead and manage dust. Dry sanding or burning off lead paint can contaminate the home and is not a DIY job.
Red flags
Be cautious of quotes with no preparation listed, vague product descriptions such as "quality paint", large deposits before any work starts, and pressure to decide on the spot. A clear, itemised quote is usually a sign of a well-run job.
Get comparable quotes
Describe the rooms or exterior areas, the current condition, any peeling or damp patches and your timing, and add photos. On Fixit247 you can post a painting job free and compare up to 3 obligation-free quotes from verified painters, where available.
General information only, reviewed for Australian conditions. Rules differ between states and territories and change over time, so confirm details with the relevant regulator. Call 000 in an emergency. Editorial policy
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