PAINTING GUIDE CHECKLIST
With the growing popularity of do-it-yourself building and renovation television shows, it’s easy to think anyone can ‘slap on a coat of paint’ in a matter of minutes.
The reality is, a poor paint job that’s finished badly can reduce the sale price of your home or investment and add months to the time it takes to sell.
Engaging a skilled, registered painter will save you time and money and help achieve a stylish result that stands the test of time. A member of Master Painters & Decorators Australia [MP&DA] can ensure your project is completed to the highest industry standard.
Here’s some tips to help you choose the right painter for your needs:
Get at least three comparable quotes. Give each painter and decorator the same description of work required and ask them to provide a formal estimate, in writing, including:
- Preparation work to be undertaken
- Quality, quantity and type of paint to be used
- Estimated timeframe for completion
- Itemised costs
To better evaluate the quotes, familiarise yourself with painting methods and terminology and the formulas used to calculate the amount of paint required.
It’s estimated that one litre of paint will cover approximately 16 square metres. Remember to multiply the figure when more than one coat is required. As an example, a standard door needing three coats will use approximately 1.5 litres of paint. There are several online free paint calculators available to help you.
In choosing which painters to approach for a quote, check the following:
- Are they registered? Rules vary from state to state but in Western Australia an individual, partnership or company that carries out, or contracts 'painter-work' valued over $1,000, must be registered with Building and Energy as a painting service 'contractor'. [Individuals registered as painting 'practitioners' cannot provide painting services but may supervise a registered 'painting service contractor'.]
- Are they experienced? Look for painters with at least two years’ experience in the type of work you want done. Ask for references and if necessary, ask to see examples of previous work.
- How do they run their business? Most established painters have a team of qualified painters working for them. If your chosen painter subcontracts to other painting companies or individuals, be clear about who guarantees the work and how complaints will be dealt with.
Avoid stress and make your life easier by dealing only with members of Master Painters & Decorators Australia [MPDA]. Our members are licensed, fully-qualified, police-cleared professionals with proven industry experience. They abide by the MPDA’s Code of Ethics, guarantee customer satisfaction and follow best practice in all areas including environmental management.
