Painting a duplex is different from painting a standalone house because you’re working with a shared wall, a neighbour and often a small body corporate. The paint itself is the same. The difference is coordination: who’s paying, what colours are allowed and how access works along the boundary.
Check who owns what
Duplexes come in a few forms. Some are two separately titled homes, and some sit within a small strata scheme. In a scheme, the external walls, roof and shared elements are usually common property, and repainting them may need body corporate approval. If it’s two freehold titles, you’ll usually agree the approach with your neighbour. Check your title and any by-laws before you plan colours.
Keep colours consistent
Most duplexes are designed to look like one building, so painting one half in a very different colour can look odd and may not be allowed. If you’re planning a colour change, talk to your neighbour early, and check the by-laws if there are any. Our colour consultation service can help find a scheme both owners are happy with.
Doing both halves at once
Painting both sides together often makes practical sense. A crew can set up once, work along the whole facade and finish with a consistent result. It’s also easier on the finish, because there’s no visible change where one half ends and the other begins. If your neighbour isn’t ready, agree how the join will be handled.
Working along the boundary
Access along the boundary and to the shared wall may need permission. Fences, gardens and neighbouring items need to be protected. Give your neighbour notice about the timing so there aren’t any surprises.
Preparation and exterior details
The steps are the same as for any exterior: wash, repair, prime and paint. Take particular care with the party wall and boundary areas, where moisture and cracks can hide. Our guide to how long exterior paint lasts lists what to watch for.
Larger multi-dwelling sites
If your building has more than a couple of dwellings, our unit complex painting guide and unit complex painting page are more relevant.
Talk before you paint
A five-minute chat with the neighbour saves a lot of trouble. See our exterior house painting service or request a quote.
McAuliffe Painting. Eagle Farm, Brisbane QLD 4009. QBCC Lic 15183972.
