10 Important Questions to Ask Your Painter in NZ

If you’re thinking of hiring a painter for your home or business, it’s important you hire the right one. In this article we’ll give you the 10 important questions to ask your painter in New Zealand before you start your project. Now, you might not want to go through a whole list of questions with your painter one by one, but if you’re aware of what you want to look for before you hire, you’ll have a much higher chance of hiring someone worth your money who can deliver good results. 

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1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Hiring a painter who’s insured and licensed ensures you’ll be working with a professional who meets industry standards and is covered in case of any accidents. It’s important to ask for proof of insurance to protect you from potential liabilities. 

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2. How Many Years of Experience Do You Have?

Experience usually translates to superior results. A painter who’s experienced will have the skills to handle all the challenges from accurate estimating process, customer service, preparation and finishing touches, making sure you’ll receive a high quality job that’s worth the money. The trades industry is more often than not a case of get what you pay for. 

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3. Can You Provide References or Examples of Your Work?

Seeing examples of previous work is great for helping you make a decision on which painter to hire. You’ll be able to see if they’ve completed work similar to yours and to the standard you’re looking for. For more information about our interior painting services, explore our interior painting services page. 

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4. What Type of Paint Do You Use?

While you might be tempted to use a lower quality paint to save costs, the type of paint significantly changes not just the final result, but how long and well it protects the surface underneath. Make sure your painter uses high quality, durable paints suited for your project or at very least makes the option available to you. You could also discuss eco-friendly or low-VOC options if you prioritize sustainability.

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5. How Do You Prepare the Surfaces Before Painting?

The most important part of a painting job which impacts the final result is all in the preparation of the surfaces before painting! Ask your painter about their surface preparation process, will it include cleaning, sanding and priming the surfaces and how will they address cracks, holes or peeling paint. 

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6. How Long Will the Job Take?

Understanding the timeline of the project will help you plan accordingly. Ask for a realistic estimate on how long the project will take, including preparation, painting and drying time. Will you need to move out of your home or business during the time or can you continue to work or live onsite?

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7. What is Included in Your Estimate?

One of the most important questions to ask before you hire a painter is what’s included in their quote or estimate. Does it cover paint, materials, labour and clean up? Do they have a plan or contingencies in place if they uncover more work then initially quoted, how will they go about negotiating this if that happens? Having a very clear understanding right from the beginning prevents misunderstandings and most importantly large cost blow outs.  

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8. Do You Offer a Warranty or Guarantee?

A warranty shows the company is confident in their work. It’s important to ask what the warranty actually covers and for how long. Does it include issues such as peeling, bubbling or cracking paint?

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9. How Will You Protect My Property During the Job?

The process of preparing a painting is messy, ask your painter how they will protect your floors, furniture and belongings from the painting process. Professionals will take precautions to keep your space clean and undamaged. 

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10. Do You Require a Deposit?

Does the company require a deposit? Understanding the payment structure before you agree to the job is important. Some painters might ask for a deposit, while others might expect full payment on completion. Ensure the terms are not just clear but fair. 

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FAQs About Hiring a Painter in NZ

1. How do I know if a painter is reliable?

A reliable painter will be licensed, insured, and able to provide references or examples of previous work. Checking online reviews and testimonials can also help gauge their reputation.

2. How long does it usually take to paint a room?

The time required depends on the size of the room and the level of preparation needed. Typically, painting a room can take 1-2 days, including preparation, painting, and drying time but if you’d like to read a full breakdown on different room sizes and the factors influencing cost, read our article on how much does it cost to paint a room.

3. Should I buy my own paint or let the painter provide it?

Many professional painters prefer to supply the paint to ensure it’s the correct type and quality for the project. However, if you have specific paint preferences, discuss them with your painter.

4. What should I do to prepare my home for painting?

You can prepare by moving furniture away from walls, covering items with drop cloths, and ensuring the area is clean and free of clutter. Some painters may include this in their services.

5. Are eco-friendly paints worth it?

Eco-friendly paints, such as low-VOC or zero-VOC options, improve indoor air quality and are ideal for families with children or allergies. Discuss these options with your painter if sustainability is a priority or read our article on the pro’s and con’s of eco-friendly paint. 

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Final Thoughts

Hiring a painter is an investment in your property’s appearance and value. By asking these 10 questions, you can ensure you choose a reliable professional who meets your expectations. For trusted painting services in New Zealand, contact Vanguard Painters to start your project with confidence.