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Insurance for painters
Insurance for painters and decorators: public liability for the homes and sites you work on, cover for your tools and van, and the licence rules for residential work. Tell us you’re a painter and a licensed broker compares quotes for you.
- Painter set as your occupation (ANZSIC 3244)
- Public liability, tools and vehicle in one request
What insurance do painters need?
Most painters start with public liability, because builders, head contractors and clients ask for it before you start. Tools and the work vehicle usually come next, and workers compensation once you take on an apprentice or employee. Residential work above set values also needs a licence.
Licence thresholds for residential work
| State | When you need a licence |
|---|---|
| NSW | Painting is a licensed trade category. A contractor licence is needed for residential work valued at more than $5,000 in labour and materials, including GST. |
| Queensland | A QBCC licence for building work valued over $3,300. |
| Other states | Check your state’s building regulator before you quote residential work. |
The covers painters usually hold
| Cover | Why |
|---|---|
| Public liability | Overspray on a car, or a client tripping over your drop sheets. |
| Tools and equipment | Sprayers, ladders and tools in the van or on site. |
| Commercial vehicle | The van or ute you work from. |
| Workers compensation | Once you take on an apprentice or employee. |
What painter public liability won’t cover
These need other cover, or aren’t insurable:
- Fixing your own faulty work.Public liability responds to the injury or damage your work causes, not the cost of redoing it.
- Your tools.Tools insurance
- An injured apprentice.That’s workers compensation.
How to compare painter insurance
Painter insurance questions
Do painters need public liability insurance?
It isn’t compulsory everywhere, but builders, strata managers and most clients require it before you start.
Do painters need a licence in NSW?
Yes, for residential painting work valued at more than $5,000 in labour and materials, including GST.
How much public liability does a painter need?
Whatever your contracts require. Limits are commonly offered at $5 million, $10 million and $20 million.
Does public liability cover overspray damage?
It can cover accidental damage to other people’s property, subject to the policy. Check the PDS.
Can painters compare insurance online?
Yes. Painters can request quotes online.
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