What should a painting quote include?
A painting quote should say what will be painted, how it will be prepared, how many coats it needs, who supplies the paint, how much it costs and how long it will take. If any of these parts is missing, there may be surprises later. A sheet of paper with just a total is not enough.
The description of the work
The quote should list the rooms and surfaces. For example, living room walls and ceiling, interior doors, skirting boards. If something is not written down, do not assume it is included.
- Rooms and surfaces to be painted.
- Whether doors, door frames, skirting boards and windows are included or not.
- Planned colours and type of finish, matt, satin or other.
- Type of paint, for example water-based emulsion for interiors, with no need to name a brand.
Surface preparation
Preparation is the part most often forgotten in quotes and the one that most determines the result. It should say whether it includes sanding, scraping off loose paint, filling cracks and holes, applying filler and applying primer.
If the painter only writes 'wall painting', ask whether preparation is included. If it is not, it may be charged separately, or it may simply not be done.
Coats, materials and protection
A clear quote states the number of coats. A coat is each layer of paint applied. Two are usually needed, but it depends on the colour and the condition of the wall.
It should also say who buys the paint and materials, and how the home is protected. Dust sheets on the floor, masking tape on the skirting boards and protection for the furniture are part of a job done properly.
Terms of business
- Total price and whether it includes VAT.
- Method of payment: deposit, staged payments, or on completion.
- Start date and expected duration.
- How long the quote is valid.
- Who is responsible for cleaning and removing waste at the end.
- How any extra work that comes up will be handled.
VAT is a point to check. Ask whether the price shown already includes it, so that there is no difference at the end.
What is left out should also be written down
A good quote also says what is not included. For example, moving heavy furniture, damp treatment or plaster repair. That way, both sides know what to expect.
Signs of a poor quote
Some quotes raise doubts straight away. If you see one or more of these things, ask for more information before accepting.
- It has only a total, with no description at all.
- It does not state the number of coats or the type of paint.
- It has no date, company name or contact details.
- It asks for full payment before starting.
- It says nothing about preparation or protecting the home.
A complete document does not have to be long. One well-organised page is enough, as long as every important point is written clearly.
Tip: Read the quote calmly and underline everything you do not understand. Ask before you accept. It is easier to clear up doubts before the job than during it.