16 September 2026 · 3 min read · Heathurst Coatings
The cost of painting a house in Melbourne depends mainly on how much surface there is, how much preparation it needs, how hard it is to reach, and which paint is used. Labour is usually the largest part of the price, and preparation is often the largest part of the labour. The only accurate way to price a job is an on-site inspection followed by a written quote.
What are the main things that affect the price?
Size and scope
More walls, ceilings, doors and trims mean more time and more paint. Ceilings, skirting boards, architraves, doors and window frames are often quoted separately, so check what is included.
Condition and preparation
A sound surface in good condition needs cleaning, light sanding and a little filling. A tired one may need cracks raked out and filled, flaking paint scraped back, rotten timber repaired, and stains sealed. Prep takes time, and it decides how long the new paint lasts.
Surfaces and materials
Plasterboard, old lath-and-plaster, render, brick, weatherboard, metal and timber all need different preparation and products. Period details such as cornices, ceiling roses and decorative trims take longer to paint well. Our heritage painting page explains what older homes involve.
Height and access
Single-storey work can often be done from ladders and planks. Double-storey exteriors, stairwells and high ceilings may need scaffolding, a boom lift or other height-safety equipment, which adds to the cost.
Colours and finishes
A repaint in a similar colour is quicker than a big colour change, which can need an extra coat. Several colours in one room, feature walls and different sheen levels add cutting-in time.
Paint range
Premium paints cost more per litre than budget ranges. They usually cover better, wear better and hold their colour longer, so they often work out cheaper over the life of the paint job.
Living in the home
Painting an occupied home means moving and covering furniture each day and working around the household. Planning the order of rooms carefully keeps disruption down.
How do you read an itemised painting quote?
A clear quote breaks the job down so you can see where the money goes. Look for:
- Areas: each room or elevation listed separately.
- Surfaces: walls, ceilings, trims and doors named for each area.
- Preparation: what repairs and prep are included.
- Products: the paint brand, range and sheen.
- Coats: primer or sealer plus the number of finish coats.
- Access: any scaffolding or lift hire.
- Exclusions: anything not included, stated plainly.
If a quote is a single total with no breakdown, ask for one. Our guide on comparing painting quotes has a full checklist.
Why can a lower quote cost more in the long run?
A lower price usually comes from less preparation, fewer coats or a cheaper paint. The finish may look fine on handover, then crack, peel or fade sooner. Repainting early costs more than doing it properly the first time.
How does Heathurst price a job?
Steve comes out, inspects every surface and talks through what you want, including colours and finishes. You then receive a fixed written quote that lists the areas, the preparation, the premium Dulux products and the coats. The price we agree on is the price you pay, with no surprise extras. At the end of the job we walk through it with you and fix anything that isn't right before we leave.
Get a quote
Heathurst paints homes and commercial properties across all of greater Melbourne. Request a free on-site quote through our contact page, or call 0418 351 120.
