You don’t need to go through all this effort to get a fair estimate on your property’s paint work. SnapTradie takes away all that work so you can get an accurate quote (within minutes!) in three steps:

1. Upload a video of your space and add some details.
2. Get an accurate, AI-powered quote.
3. Meet your licensed tradie.

But if you want to do it the good old way, here’s a print-friendly (and online notetaker-friendly) checklist of things that you can do to get an accurate quote from a professional painter:

Project Definition

[ ] Made a complete list of all areas needing painting (walls, ceilings, trim, doors, windows)

[ ] For exterior jobs: included all additional structures (garages, sheds, fences)

[ ] Determined whether it's new construction or a repaint

[ ] Decided on preferred paint colors and types (or need consultation)

[ ] Established a desired timeline for project completion

Pre-Quote Preparation

[ ] Cleared access to all areas needing measurement

[ ] Identified and documented any damaged surfaces or problem areas

[ ] Listed any special features requiring extra attention

[ ] Checked local HOA guidelines or restrictions on paint colors/types

[ ] Researched if property is in a historical district with special requirements

[ ] Verified any requirements for low-VOC paints

During the Quote Visit

[ ] Allowed thorough inspection of all areas to be painted

[ ] Pointed out any known issues (peeling paint, water damage, etc.)

[ ] Discussed furniture that needs to be moved or protected

[ ] Asked about necessary prep work beyond basic hole fills/caulking

[ ] Inquired about equipment needs (scaffolding, lifts for high ceilings)

[ ] Discussed paint brands, quality levels, and specific product lines

Questions to Ask the Painter

[ ] Requested detailed breakdown of materials, labor, and total costs

[ ] Asked about the specific work process and timeline

[ ] Clarified what prep work is included in the quote

[ ] Confirmed number of coats included for each surface

[ ] Asked if equipment rental costs (if needed) are included

[ ] Requested references and examples of previous similar work

[ ] Verified if they use employees or subcontractors

[ ] Confirmed insurance coverage and relevant licensing

[ ] Discussed payment schedule and deposit requirements

After Receiving the Quote

[ ] Obtained multiple quotes from different painters for comparison

[ ] Compared scope of work across all quotes (not just price)

[ ] Evaluated whether extremely low quotes might be missing something

[ ] Checked if quotes include similar quality materials

[ ] Verified all quotes include the same services and areas

[ ] Confirmed timeline expectations match in writing

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Closing note

It's all guesswork until a painter takes a look into your property. We are changing that.

SnapTradie uses AI-powered quoting to give you transparent pricing and match you with vetted tradies.

‍Get a free painting estimate in minutes. No obligation to hire and note sales calls: just free, transparent pricing.

You can also check out our article on how much residential and commercial painting costs in Sydney in 2025.