How do you compare quotes from painters?

Why the lowest price can be misleading

Two quotes for the same window frames can be hundreds of euros apart. Often the difference is not in the profit margin but in the amount of work. One painter sands, repairs and applies two coats of gloss, the other puts one coat over the old paint. On the day of handover you cannot see that difference. After two winters you can, when the cheap coat starts to flake and the frames are due again.

These points belong on every quote

• Description per component: which frames, doors, walls or ceilings, inside or outside.
• Preparation: cleaning, sanding, filling, priming and sealing.
• Paint system: brand, product and the number of coats.
• Terms: guarantee, payment arrangements and what happens with additional work.

Wood rot is often the biggest uncertainty. An honest quote names the spots that are already visible and states how additional repairs will be charged. That prevents disputes afterwards. How to recognise rot yourself is explained on recognising wood rot in window frames.

Watch the VAT and extra costs

Check whether labour and materials are listed separately. For homes more than two years old, the labour should usually carry 9% VAT and the materials 21%; you can find the current rate on belastingdienst.nl. Also check whether scaffolding, a cherry picker, parking costs and waste removal are included. In Amsterdam, parking can be a significant item. You will find more explanation on VAT on painting work and what a painter costs per hour.

Quality marks and the conversation itself

A quality mark says something about the security behind the quote. Members of De Betere Schilder are qualified and assessed, work with a clear written quote, give a guarantee lasting years and have filed terms of delivery. Koninklijke OnderhoudNL sets requirements for quality, safety and reliability. Oranje Kwast is a member of both.

Also pay attention to the conversation itself: does the painter take the time to look at your home and answer your questions? Does he ask about your wishes and explain why he chooses a particular approach? Our painter comes round himself and sends his quote within 48 hours of the walk-through, so you can calmly set it alongside others. Read more about both organisations in De Betere Schilder and OnderhoudNL.