THE USEFUL ANSWER
For a rental or pre-sale repaint, work backwards from the inspection or handover date. Share the property’s access arrangements, room list, repair needs and other trades’ schedules. Ask for a written programme and confirm availability directly; this planning website does not reserve a start date.
01 / THE DETAILS
Decide what actually needs repainting.
Distinguish a full interior repaint from a few damaged walls or selected rooms. Touch-ups can differ in colour or sheen from aged paint; ask whether a whole wall or room would give a more consistent result.
Use current photographs and a condition record. Separate cosmetic work from moisture, building or maintenance issues that need another trade.
02 / THE DETAILS
Make the property accessible.
Agree who supplies keys, authorises changes and inspects the finished work. Tell the painter about tenants, pets, parking, building access rules and any restricted working hours.
Coordinate cleaning, flooring, electrical work and furniture movements. Allow for drying and a final inspection before photography, open homes or occupancy.
03 / THE DETAILS
Compare the same commercial scope.
Have each quote name the rooms, surfaces, preparation, paint system, cleanup and exclusions. Confirm GST treatment and any access or after-hours charges.
For an agent-managed job, clarify the authorised decision-maker, invoice details and approval process for variations. Do not assume a deadline or price is accepted until the contractor confirms it.
04 / THE DETAILS
Keep the colour schedule.
Record the finished colour, product and sheen by room. It makes later maintenance easier to discuss, even when an exact match still requires repainting a larger area.
Questions to ask before you start.
How long will my interior painting take?
The schedule depends on the room count, repairs, access, number of coats and product drying requirements. Ask for a room-by-room programme, including preparation, drying time, touch-ups and the final walkthrough.
Planning guide reviewed 23 October 2026. Confirm the scope and product requirements with your chosen contractor.