Strata painting quotes are hard to compare when every contractor prices something different. This checklist is for NSW strata managers and committees getting a building repainted, inside or out.
1. A scope everyone quotes on
Quotes are only comparable when they price the same work. List the areas (lobbies, stairwells, fire doors, car park, external elevations), the surfaces, the preparation, the number of coats and what is excluded. For façades, include how the high areas will be reached: scaffolding, an elevated work platform or rope access.
2. The paint system in writing
Ask each contractor to name the primer or sealer, the finish products and the number of coats. A cheap quote often has one fewer coat or less preparation.
3. Repairs before painting
Cracked render, concrete cancer, failed sealant and rusting balustrades should be repaired before any finish coat. Ask how each quote deals with defects found once work starts, and at what rate.
4. Licence and insurance
- NSW contractor licence covering painting, checked on the NSW Government licence check service
- Public liability insurance certificate
- Workers compensation certificate
- Safe Work Method Statements for the work, including any work at height
- For rope access work: IRATA-qualified technicians, a rescue plan and certified roof anchors
5. Colours and finishes
Confirm colour codes and sheen levels before work starts, and check any by-laws or development consent conditions that control external colours.
6. Access and resident notices
Agree work hours, which areas close and when, how doors and lifts stay usable, and how residents are notified. Good notices prevent most complaints.
7. Sign-off
Agree how the work is inspected at the end, who signs it off, and how touch-ups are handled.
Related reading
- Strata building painting in Sydney
- Strata common area painting
- How often to repaint a strata building
- Questions to ask before accepting a strata painting quote
Common questions
Who approves painting in a strata building?
Painting common property is maintenance by the owners corporation. Depending on the cost and the building’s by-laws and delegations, it is approved by the strata committee or at a general meeting. Your strata manager will know which applies.
Does a painter need a licence in NSW?
Yes. In NSW a contractor licence is needed for painting work worth more than $5,000 including labour and materials. You can check any licence on the NSW Government licence check service. Ace Abseiling’s licence number is 465770C.
What documents should the contractor provide?
A written scope and quote, proof of licence, public liability insurance and workers compensation certificates, and Safe Work Method Statements for the work.
Getting quotes for a strata repaint? Request a quote or call 1300 926 176.
