Before you hire a painting contractor in Brisbane, ask about their licence, insurance, preparation process, materials, timeline, warranty and clean-up. The answers show you how they work, and they’re easier to get before you sign than after. This list is written for homeowners and small property owners. If you’re hiring for a commercial building, see our guide to what to ask before signing a commercial painting quote.

Experience and qualifications

Are you licensed and insured? Ask for the QBCC licence number and proof of public liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Our post on what insurance a painter needs explains why both matter.

How long have you been in business? Experience isn’t everything, but a track record helps.

Can I see examples and speak to past clients? A good painter will happily share recent work and references.

Safety and preparation

How do you handle safety? This matters most on two-storey homes and older houses. Ask about working at heights and about lead paint and asbestos precautions if the house is older.

How will you protect my property? Furniture, floors, gardens and fittings should all be covered or moved.

What preparation is included? Washing, scraping, filling, sanding and priming decide how long the paint lasts. If prep is vague in the quote, ask.

Scope and materials

What’s included in the price? The quote should list the areas, the number of coats and the products.

Which paint will you use, and why? A good painter can explain why a product suits your surface and climate. For a guide to the difference, read what makes a quality paint.

Timeline and communication

When will you start and finish? Ask what happens if rain interrupts the job, because it can in Brisbane. Our article on the best time to paint in Brisbane explains how weather affects the schedule.

Who’s my contact during the job? You want one person who answers the phone.

Warranty and clean-up

What warranty do you offer on your work? Ask what’s covered and for how long, and get it in writing.

How do you handle clean-up? A tidy site at the end of each day is a sign of a professional crew.

Take your time and ask

The best painters welcome questions. If yours don’t, that tells you something. See our residential painting and commercial painting services, or request a quote.

McAuliffe Painting. Eagle Farm, Brisbane QLD 4009. QBCC Lic 15183972.