The key to a smooth, stress-free painting project isn't just about finding the lowest price, but about understanding what a comprehensive painting contract should include and how to spot the red flags that signal a hidden fee or an unreliable painter.

What Should Be in Every Painting Contract

A good painting contract should include:

Areas that Will be Painted

Your contract should spell out exactly what's getting painted – gutters, trims, fascias, eaves, windows, doors, the lot. For interior jobs, it should list every room and even specify if you're just doing ceilings.

Just as important? What's NOT getting painted. Don’t get charged for that weatherboard you just got repainted two months ago.

Preparation Work Needed

Your contract must detail all prep work: cleaning, sanding, filling holes and cracks, stripping old paint, sealing surfaces. Proper prep is what makes paint last years instead of months. If it's not in writing, it's not happening.

Paint Details That Matter

Know exactly what paint you're getting: the brand, type, quality and how many coats. Dramatic colour changes need more coats, and some surfaces need special treatment.

Access Platforms Needed

Scaffolding, hoists, elevated work platforms are necessary for some areas and will add to your bill. Your quote should include all access equipment costs and any permits needed for working on footpaths or roads.

Safety Measures

A professional painter takes safety seriously. Your contract should outline their safety procedures as it protects everyone on your property.

Realistic Timeline

Get start and finish dates in writing, plus how they'll handle delays (weather, material shortages, etc.). If they need to work after hours, that should be noted with any extra costs.

Transparent Pricing

Every cost must be itemised, including labor, materials, and equipment. GST must be clearly stated, whether it’s included or not. Payment terms, deposits, and schedules must be specified.

Communication Plan

Who's your point of contact? How often will you get updates? If other contractors are involved, how will they coordinate? Good communication prevents problems and ensures the timely completion of your project.

Warranty Promise

A quality painter, like SnapTradie’s vetted painters, stands behind their work. Your contract should include warranty details and how they'll handle any issues after the job's done.

It's possible to get same-day painting estimates that include a detailed, itemised list of what's included in your project. Compare multiple quotes to make sure that you get the best value for the price you're quoted.

How to Avoid Hidden Painting Costs

You can avoid plenty of headaches with some smart planning.

Step 1: Know Exactly What You Want Before You Start

Before you even pick up the phone, get crystal clear on what needs doing. This isn't just about saying "paint my house" – you need to think through every detail.

Map out your project:

• Which rooms or areas need painting?
• Do you want ceilings done too?
• What about gutters, window frames, and doors?
• Are there any problem areas like cracks or holes?

Choose your paint quality wisely. Yes, premium paint costs more upfront, but it lasts longer and looks better. Think of it as an investment, not just an expense.

Be honest about your home's condition. If you've got peeling paint, water damage, or suspect there might be lead paint (common in older homes), mention it. Hiding problems just leads to nasty surprises later.

Step 2: Get Proper Quotes (Not Just Prices)

A proper quote should tell you exactly what you're getting for your money. A good quote includes:

• Detailed scope of work: Every single thing they'll do, from prep work to final cleanup. If it's not written down, assume it's not included.
• Specific paint brands and types: "Premium paint" means nothing. You want to know if they're using Dulux, Taubmans, or something else entirely.
• Surface preparation details: This is where corners get cut. Good painters will tell you exactly how they'll prep your walls.
• Equipment and access costs: Need scaffolding? Special equipment for high walls? This should all be spelled out.
• Timeline with realistic dates: Anyone promising to paint your whole house in two days is probably cutting corners.
• Payment schedule: Never pay everything upfront. In NSW, deposits are typically 10% for jobs over $5,000.

Step 3: Check Your Painter's Credentials

A cheap quote from an uninsured painter could cost you thousands if something goes wrong. These are must-haves for a tradie worthy of your trust:

• Valid license (required for jobs over $5,000 in NSW)
• Public liability insurance
• Workers' compensation insurance

You can check these online. In NSW, use the Verify NSW website.

Ask for references and actually call them. A good painter will be proud to show off their work. If they won't give you references, that's a red flag.

Step 4: Get Everything in Writing

This is your insurance policy against disputes. Any changes must be in writing too. If your painter suggests extra work mid-job, don't just nod and agree. Get a written variation that includes the extra cost and time needed.

What to Do When Things Go Wrong

If you're dealing with a licensed pro and things aren't right, you've got options.

• Have a chat first: Give them a call and explain what's not working. Most tradies want to make things right when you give them the chance.
• Get the regulators involved: The Building Commission NSW sorts out disputes when work's not finished, there are building faults, damage to your property, or issues with specialist trades.
• Try Fair Trading NSW: They'll help settle arguments for work on certain building types (class 2, 3 and 9c). If you and your tradie can't work it out between yourselves, they'll step in.
• Check their industry group: Many tradies belong to professional bodies like Master Builders Australia, HIA, Builders Collective of Australia, BDAA, or the Australian Institute of Building. These groups often help sort out disputes.
• Legal recourse: For serious problems, you can go legal through courts or tribunals.

Keep Good Records

Solid paperwork makes all the difference when you need to sort out a dispute. Keep track of everything from day one:

• Every email, text, and contract.
• Photos showing the work and any problems.
• All your receipts and payment records.
• Any changes to the original job or costs.
• Notes on what happened when and who said what.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get Quotes Before Signing Up

Whether you're dealing with hidden fees or want to avoid them altogether, getting the right painter from the start saves you money and stress. We're here to help you connect with the right tradie for the job.

Our network of vetted painters understands proper contracts and transparent pricing, so you won't get stung by surprise charges.

Here's what SnapTradie can do for you:

• Provide you with AI-powered, human-verified estimates that break down every cost so there are no unpleasant surprises later.
• Match you with licensed painters who include all prep work, materials, and access equipment in their upfront quotes.
• Offer an extra level of guarantee because our painters stand behind their work and won't disappear when problems arise.

Don't risk dodgy contracts and hidden fees. Professional, transparent painters are just a few clicks away.

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