5 tips for estimating a painting job

When estimating a painting quote, there are many things to consider. On the one hand, you don’t want to estimate too high, as that will reduce repeat customers. But you also don’t want to rip yourself off by underestimating your hard work.

A precise price estimate will help you stand out among your competitors and increase your chances of landing the next painting job. This article has five steps to help you.

1. Understand market rates

Painters in Australia charge an average of $53 per hour, excluding materials.

Some painters charge by the area, with exterior painters charging $15 to $45 per square metre, and interior painters from $35 to $45 per square metre.

The skill level and experience required to complete a project will affect the price. Your price will also be affected by where you live. Painting jobs in big cities like Sydney, Brisbane, or Melbourne are likely to be more expensive than those in smaller towns.

Recommended reading: Painter’s Licence Requirements by State in Australia

2. Visit the customer’s house

Visit the customer’s home before you start to discuss price. You will get a better idea of the job in-person. It’s also a great way for you to iron out the details, like the type and colour of paint they want.

Visiting the customer’s home will also give you a feel for the project’s duration and the supplies required. These details will help you estimate labour costs accurately.

Recommended reading: How to Get More Painting Jobs

3. Calculate the paint needed

The cost of paint depends on factors such as the size of the surface, whether you need primer, the sheen, and whether it’s for internal or external surfaces. The type of surface that you are painting will affect the price too.

4. Consider Material and Supply Costs

These are the most common materials and supplies that you will need for most painting jobs:

• Primer and paint
• Paint brushes and rollers
• Drop sheets
• Painters’ tape
• Sanding paper
• Paint scrapers

Your final estimate should also take into account overhead costs, such as your vehicle and business insurance. It’s important to consider how much of a mark-up you want to add to turn a profit.

5. Get your business insurance sorted

Sorting out your painters insurance from the get-go is essential for small painting businesses in Australia. A painter could go through these steps and submit a perfectly reasonable estimate only for the client to decline because they are not covered.

Insurance for painters protects you from a variety of risks. If you accidentally spill paint on a client’s hardwood floors or if a customer slips on your scaffolding, you could be liable.

With BizCover, you can get your painters insurance sorted online in about ten minutes, no paperwork required! Try our platform today to compare quotes from leading insurers and select the policy that’s right for your business.