How licensees can prevent issues before they arise
As a licensee, this presents you with an opportunity to stand out and demonstrate professionalism through strong awareness of industry best practice, ongoing upskilling, and consistent communication with owners to help prevent issues before they arise – because prevention is better than cure.
By doing this you build trust with clients, confidence in those performing the work and contributing to a thriving building and construction industry.
Why skilled, qualified painters deliver better results
While many people have taken to a DIY paint job, we know quality work requires strong technical foundations and years of experience. A QBCC painting and decorating licence ensures you can demonstrate the practical skills required for competent surface preparation, application and finishing work. To obtain this licence, an applicant must complete recognised painting and decorating qualifications and show they have the necessary hands-on experience to meet the QBCC’s technical standards.
These competencies directly reduce the likelihood of defects such as poor adhesion, blistering, uneven coats and premature paint failure. When licensees stay current with industry expectations, they safeguard consumer confidence while strengthening pride in the profession.
Keeping good records: A simple step that reduces disputes
Clear and accurate record keeping is one of the most effective ways to prevent and resolve issues before they escalate.
Licensees should keep photos, contracts, communication and payment records to support fair and evidence-based documentation if issues arise in future.
Good records help demonstrate:
- surfaces were prepared correctly
- appropriate primers, sealers and coatings were used
- weather conditions were suitable
- product instructions were followed.
Thorough documentation can help demonstrate compliant work, as well as transparent, consistent and reasonable decision-making if a complaint arises. It also simplifies interactions with the QBCC, making it easier and faster to resolve matters fairly.
Check in with home owners: A small effort that builds big confidence
At the QBCC, we encourage open and timely communication between licensees and home owners. The Home Owner Hub highlights how early conversations help prevent issues, resolve concerns and support positive outcomes throughout any building or renovation project.
These simple interactions reduce misunderstandings or confusion and contribute to smoother project delivery.
Preventing painting defects through good practice
Many painting defects can be avoided with sound, consistent work practices. Key risk areas that the QBCC has identified though its inspections include:
- Surface preparation – Training requirements ensure that before you enter the workforce you understand proper cleaning, sanding, filling and priming before paint application.
- Correct application – Uneven coverage, poor cutting in and inconsistent sheen often arise from rushed work or insufficient coats. Keeping records and following manufacturer instructions reduce these risks.
- Moisture awareness – Bubbling or blistering typically indicates damp substrates or inadequate drying time. Identifying moisture early prevents defects that may otherwise lead to complaints.
By focusing on these fundamentals, we strengthen the professionalism and pride that licensed painters bring to every job, demonstrating the value of choosing a qualified expert over DIY alternatives.
A stronger industry through prevention
With tools like the Industry Snapshot, the Standards and Tolerances Guide, and other useful licensee resources, we provide practical guidance that strengthens decision‑making and helps licensees deliver quality work.
We back this through our commitment to be responsive and offering choice in the ways you contact us– such as phone, in-person services and via the myQBCC customer portal.
Our approach is built on the principle that prevention is better than cure – we are here to guide, and support if things go wrong, but more importantly, we are here to help you get things right from the start. We will however, be unapologetic when individuals deliberately or repeatedly fail to comply, because that behaviour undermines the reputation and professionalism of your specialist trade.
We also encourage you to continue to stay across industry best practice and stay engaged with home owners through the project.
Together, these efforts strengthen industry integrity, protect consumers, and promote confidence in your profession - ensuring high-quality outcomes for everyone.
