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Choosing a Painter

If you live in NSW, QLD, SA or WA, using a licensed or registered painter is an important way you can ensure you won't be ripped off. Licensed or registered painters have received special training to make sure they apply coatings to specifications,and meet industry requirements. Painters who work unlicensed or unregistered in states where they are required to do so risk the quality of the work carried out, and pose a risk to the consumer. The licensing or registration system protects the consumer and the painter from unnecessary conflict and disappointment. Consumers who use unlicensed or unqualified painters may be unable to recover damages, should a complaint over faulty workmanship arise.
In New South Wales a painter must be licensed if he/she contracts, sub-contracts or advertises to do exterior residential painting where the reasonable market cost of the labour and building materials is more than $5000. Licenses are issued by the Department of Fair Trading NSW.
In all other states consumers should choose painters who are trade qualified.

Getting a Quote

One way you can protect yourself from poor quality workmanship is to always get a written quote or contract from the painter you want to engage. The painter should put the quote or contract in writing before you agree to it. The quote or contract should include:
  • The type of paint to be used, including brand, and number of coats as specified by the AS/NZ Standard - Guide to the Painting of Buildings
  • A detailed description of preparation to be carried out
  • The areas to be painted
  • The total cost of the project
  • Any warranties
  • The amount for the deposit and any progress payments. The deposit should not exceed the mximum amount allowed in your state.
  • A date for when the quote expires
  • Their name, business name, and licence or registration number as required
Once you agree to the quote, the quote or contract should be signed by both parties prior to starting. Variations to the quote or contract can be made during the project, but should always be documented in writing, by email, SMS or on the quote or contract itself.