How to choose a house painter: checklist

Before you ask for quotes

• Decide what you want painted: walls, ceilings, trims, doors, eaves, the roof or the fence.
• Look for cracked render, peeling paint, rot and rust. Point these out to every painter.
• Find out roughly when your home was built. Homes built before 1970 may have lead paint.
• Pick your colours, or ask the painter for help with a colour plan.

Check the licence

In several states, such as New South Wales and Queensland, a painter needs a licence for jobs above a set value. Rules differ per state. Ask for the licence number and check it with your state's fair trading or building authority.

What a good quote includes

Ask for a written quote. It should say:

• What preparation is done: washing, scraping, sanding, filling and priming.
• The paint brand and product, and how many coats.
• Who pays for scaffolding, a lift and repairs.
• When the job starts and how long it takes.
• The total price including GST, and the payment terms.

Questions to ask the painter

• Can I see photos of recent jobs, or talk to a past client?
• Do you have public liability insurance?
• Is there a warranty on the work, and for how long?
• Who does the work: you, your own team or subcontractors?

How often to repaint

Outside walls in strong sun, near the coast or in the tropics need a repaint sooner than sheltered walls. Watch for chalky, faded or peeling paint: repainting before it peels saves on preparation.

Questions about choosing a painter

How many painting quotes should I get?

Get at least three written quotes. Compare the preparation, the paint and the number of coats, not only the price.

Does a painter need a licence in Australia?

It depends on the state. In New South Wales and Queensland, for example, painters need a licence for jobs above a set value. Check the rules and the licence number with your state's fair trading or building authority.

Is a fixed price better than an hourly rate?

For most homes, yes. A fixed price tells you the total before the work starts. Check that the quote lists everything that is included.

Checked in October 2026.

House painters near you

• Painters Sydney
• Painters Melbourne
• Painters Brisbane
• Painters Perth
• Painters Adelaide
• Painters Gold Coast