Planning to repaint your apartment? Understanding apartment painting quotes in Sydney is the first step to making an informed decision. Whether you’re preparing for a move, giving your home a fresh look, or meeting end-of-lease requirements, knowing what’s included in a painting quote and what affects the cost can help you choose the right painter without overpaying. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know from average pricing to inclusions so you can confidently compare professional painting quotes and get the best value for your Sydney apartment.

How Much Does It Cost to Paint an Apartment in Sydney?

The cost of painting an apartment in Sydney typically ranges from $1,500 to $6,000, depending on factors like apartment size, number of rooms, ceiling height, paint quality, and whether you’re painting interiors, exteriors, or both. A small one-bedroom apartment might cost around $1,500 to $2,500, while larger two- or three-bedroom units can go upwards of $4,000.

Keep in mind that quotes often include labour, basic surface preparation, and standard paint, but premium finishes or urgent timelines may come at an extra cost. Getting multiple quotes from local painters ensures you’re paying the right price for quality work.

What’s Typically Included in an Apartment Painting Quote?

When you request an apartment painting quote in Sydney, most professional painters will include a breakdown of both materials and labour. Typically, your quote will cover:

Surface preparation – cleaning, sanding, patching small holes or cracks
Priming and undercoating – especially if painting over dark walls or stained surfaces
Number of paint coats – usually 2 coats of top-quality paint (brand may vary)
Ceiling and wall coverage – often included by default; trims and doors may be extra
Paint supply – standard low-VOC paints unless you request premium finishes
Cleanup and waste disposal – removal of masking tape, paint drops, and proper disposal

Some quotes may also mention travel fees, GST, and project timelines, so be sure to ask for a detailed, itemised quote. This transparency helps you compare painters more confidently and avoid unexpected add-ons later.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Apartment Painting

Several key factors influence how much you’ll pay for apartment painting in Sydney. These include:

Apartment size and layout – Larger spaces or open-plan designs naturally require more paint and time.
Wall and ceiling height – High ceilings or stairwells require extra equipment and labour.
Surface condition – Damaged, stained, or uneven walls may need additional prep like patching or sanding.
Type of paint and finish – Premium paints, matte or gloss finishes, and speciality coatings will increase costs.
Number of coats – More coats = more labour and paint. This is common when switching from dark to light colours.
Inclusions – Do you want trims, doors, or ceilings painted too? These are often quoted separately.
Access and furniture – Tight spaces or fully furnished units take longer to work in and may incur extra fees.

Understanding these variables helps you evaluate quotes more accurately and decide where you can save without sacrificing quality.

Interior vs Exterior Apartment Painting: What’s the Difference in Cost?

Interior and exterior painting have different requirements, and that’s reflected in the pricing. Interior painting is generally more affordable and less time-consuming, especially if you’re only refreshing walls and ceilings. Costs range from $20 to $40 per square metre, depending on paint type and surface condition.

Exterior painting, on the other hand, involves more intensive prep work, weather considerations, and safety measures like scaffolding or ladders. This can push costs up to $40–$70 per square metre or more, especially in multi-level apartments or buildings with limited access.

It’s also worth noting that some strata or body corporates may have guidelines for exterior paint colours and require pre-approval, which can affect the scope and timing of your project. Always clarify what’s included in your quote and whether it covers interior, exterior, or both.

How to Get an Accurate Painting Quote for Your Sydney Apartment

To get a precise and realistic painting quote, it’s important to provide as much detail as possible upfront. Start by sharing:

The size of your apartment (e.g., number of bedrooms, square metres)
The areas to be painted – walls only, or also ceilings, trims, doors, or feature walls
Current condition of the walls – any damage, peeling paint, or mould?
Your preferred paint colours and finishes
Whether the apartment is occupied or vacant – furniture impacts setup and prep time

The best painters in Sydney will offer a free site inspection or virtual walkthrough to give a more tailored quote. Always request a written, itemised quote and ask if it includes GST, materials, labour, cleanup, and any travel or access costs. Clear communication at this stage helps avoid budget surprises later.

Hourly vs Fixed Pricing: Which One Is Better for Apartment Painting?

When getting painting quotes, you’ll often see two pricing models: hourly rates and fixed (flat-rate) quotes. Each has its pros and cons.

Hourly pricing (usually $40–$80/hour in Sydney) gives you transparency into the labour cost, but it can become unpredictable—especially if extra prep work or delays occur.
Fixed pricing provides a clear total cost upfront, which is ideal for budgeting and avoids surprise charges. Most experienced painters offer this after assessing your apartment.

For smaller touch-up jobs or when scope is uncertain, hourly may be fine. But for full apartment repaints, fixed pricing is usually safer and more cost-effective, especially when it includes paint, prep, and cleanup. Always ask what’s covered in the rate and whether materials are included.

Common Hidden Costs in Apartment Painting Quotes (And How to Avoid Them)

Not all painting quotes are created equal—and some come with unexpected costs that can catch you off guard. Be on the lookout for:

Surface repair fees – Minor wall damage or patching often isn’t included unless specified.
Ceilings, trims, and doors – These are sometimes quoted separately from wall painting.
Premium paint upgrades – You may be quoted for standard paint, but charged more if you request a better brand or finish.
Access equipment – If your apartment needs scaffolding, lifts, or special gear, this can be an added charge.
Out-of-hours work – Painting outside business hours (e.g., nights or weekends) can come with surcharges.
Strata permissions or delays – Some painters charge extra if work is delayed due to body corporate approvals.

To avoid these surprise add-ons, always ask for a fully itemised quote, clarify what’s included, and read the fine print. A good painter will be upfront and transparent from the start.

How Long Will It Take to Paint Your Apartment? Timeline Expectations

The time it takes to paint an apartment in Sydney depends on the size of your unit, the scope of work, and the condition of the surfaces. Here’s a rough guide:

Studio or 1-bedroom apartment – typically 1 to 2 days
2-bedroom apartment – around 2 to 3 days
3-bedroom apartment – 3 to 4 days or more, especially with ceilings and trims

Add extra time for prep work, such as patching walls, sanding, or priming dark colours. Weather may also delay drying times if painting in humid or rainy conditions (especially for exteriors or balconies).

If you’re on a tight deadline—like moving in or out—ask for accelerated services or weekend availability, but keep in mind this might come with a premium cost. Always confirm the timeline in writing to avoid disruptions to your schedule.

Get a Free, No-Obligation Apartment Painting Quote in Sydney Today

Ready to refresh your apartment? The best way to start is by requesting a free, no-obligation quote from a trusted local painter. A quality painting service will offer:

A site visit or virtual assessment
A detailed, itemised quote outlining what’s included
Expert advice on paint types, colours, and finishes
Flexible scheduling that works around your availability

Whether you’re updating your space for a new tenant, preparing to sell, or simply want a fresh look, getting a professional quote gives you peace of mind and a clear understanding of the cost.

👉 Contact Sydney Elite Painters today for fast, transparent, and competitively priced apartment painting quotes tailored to your needs.