A clear, detailed målaroffert (painting quote) is crucial for both contractors and property owners. It defines the work, sets expectations, and prevents disputes. Yet, many quotes are vague, omit key steps, or leave room for costly misunderstandings. Here’s what a professional painting quote should include—and what both sides need to check before signing.
Core Elements of a Professional Målaroffert
Every serious painting quote should specify:
- Exact areas to be painted (rooms, surfaces, m² or linear meters)
- Type and number of coats (primer, paint, finish)
- Surface preparation (cleaning, sanding, patching, masking)
- Material specifications (brands, paint type, gloss level)
- Labor cost and time estimate
- What is included/excluded (e.g., furniture moving, waste disposal)
- ROT deduction details (if applicable)
- Timeline and drying/curing requirements
What Drives Price in a Painting Quote?
Painting costs can vary widely. Key price drivers include:
- Surface condition: Poor substrates may require extensive prep, patching, or priming.
- Access and protection: High ceilings, stairwells, or crowded rooms increase setup and masking time.
- Paint quality and system: Premium paints and specialty finishes cost more but last longer.
- Number of colors and finishes: More colors or feature walls require extra masking, cleaning, and labor.
- Scope clarity: Vague or changing scope leads to change orders and extra costs.
- Waste and overage: Complex layouts or pattern matching (e.g., wallpaper) increase material waste.
Estimate Logic: How Painters Calculate a Quote
Most professional painters base their quotes on a combination of area (m²), surface type, and estimated labor hours. For example:
- Walls: Calculated by wall area (height x length), subtracting windows and doors.
- Ceilings: Priced per m², often with higher rates for special heights or structures.
- Trim/Joinery: Priced per linear meter or per item (e.g., doors, windowsills).
Labor is estimated based on surface condition, number of coats, and complexity. Material costs are added, often with a markup. The ROT deduction is applied to labor only.
Common Pitfalls and Hidden Items in Painting Quotes
Many disputes arise from unclear or incomplete quotes. Watch out for:
- Unspecified prep work: Failing to detail crack repair, stain blocking, or old wallpaper removal.
- Assumed exclusions: Not mentioning who moves furniture, covers floors, or reinstalls fixtures.
- Ambiguous material specs: Generic terms like “good paint” without brand or product.
- No mention of waste removal: Leaving cleanup or disposal to the client.
- Missing drying/curing times: Overlapping trades can damage fresh paint if not coordinated.
How to Compare Painting Quotes Effectively
Lowest price rarely means best value. To compare offers:
- Check that all quotes cover the same scope and prep steps.
- Review material brands and paint systems—cheaper paint can mean more frequent repainting.
- Confirm labor is calculated on realistic timeframes, not wishful thinking.
- Ask for clarification on anything unclear or missing.
- Consider the contractor’s experience, references, and insurance.
Checklist: What to Confirm in Your Målaroffert
- All surfaces and areas to be painted are listed
- Preparation and repair work is detailed
- Paint brands, types, and number of coats are specified
- Labor and material costs are separated
- ROT deduction is clearly shown (if applicable)
- Timeline and drying times are included
- Responsibilities for moving furniture, masking, and waste removal are clear
Practical Conclusion: Protecting Both Sides
A detailed målaroffert protects both the client and the contractor. It prevents scope creep, clarifies expectations, and reduces the risk of disputes or extra costs. For contractors, it’s a sign of professionalism and helps avoid underpricing. For property owners, it’s the best tool for comparing offers and ensuring you get the finish you expect.
