Choosing a painter in Melbourne takes more than picking the cheapest quote. Melbourne has hundreds of painting businesses. Quality varies from excellent to terrible. This guide helps you identify a reliable painter and avoid expensive mistakes.
Check Licensing and Insurance
In Victoria, a painter needs VBA (Victorian Building Authority) registration as a Domestic Builder if the contract value is over $10,000 and they contract directly with the homeowner. Ask for their VBA registration number and check it on the VBA website.
Ask for proof of public liability insurance. $10 million is the minimum you should accept. If a painter damages your property or a worker is injured, you want to know they are covered.
Check for Master Painters Association Victoria (MPAV) membership. MPAV members follow a code of practice and have access to a dispute resolution service.
Get 3 Quotes (But Not the Cheapest)
Get at least 3 written quotes. Each quote should include:
- A line-by-line scope of work listing every surface to be painted
- The paint brand and product to be used
- The number of coats
- The preparation method
- The total price (including GST)
- The start date and estimated completion
Be cautious of the cheapest quote. The gap between the cheapest and most expensive quote for the same job in Melbourne ranges from 40% to 100%. The cheapest quote usually means fewer coats, less preparation, cheaper paint, or all three. These savings cost you in durability and appearance.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Quoting without inspecting the property. A reliable painter always visits in person.
- Hourly rates below $40 (excluding GST). This is below cost for a licensed, insured painter using trade-grade materials.
- No mention of preparation in the quote. If the quote only mentions ‘paint 2 coats,’ ask what preparation is included.
- No written quote. Verbal quotes lead to disputes.
- Requesting more than 10% deposit upfront (for contracts under $20,000 in Victoria).
- No insurance or registration details provided.
Questions to Ask
Before hiring, ask these questions:
- Are you VBA registered? What is your registration number?
- What public liability insurance do you carry?
- What paint products will you use?
- How many coats will you apply?
- What preparation is included?
- What is your warranty?
- How long will the job take?
A good painter answers these questions confidently and puts everything in writing.
Check Reviews
Read Google reviews. A business with 40+ reviews and a 4.8+ star rating is a strong indicator of consistent quality. Read the negative reviews too. One bad review is not a dealbreaker. Multiple complaints about the same issue is.
Ask for references from recent jobs. A reputable painter is happy to share.
Next Steps
Prestige Painting Experts is VBA registered, carries $10 million public liability, and provides a 5-year workmanship warranty. We give a detailed written quote after inspecting your home. Call 0423 481 233 or request a quote online.