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Painting Contract Template

Updated November 18, 2025

A painting contract is a written agreement that outlines project details such as work areas, preparation steps, paint selections, project timeline, payment schedule, and general cleanup expectations.

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What Is a Painting Contract?

A painting contract typically describes the working arrangement between a painter or painting company and a client. It often outlines project details such as the spaces being painted, general expectations for preparation, anticipated timelines, and basic project coordination. Many contracts also reference communication methods, surface descriptions, or finish types to help create a shared understanding of how the project will be approached. Painting contracts are commonly used for residential and commercial projects where clarity and organization support a smooth experience for both the client and the painting team.

Key Terms of a Painting Contract

Painting contracts often share a set of recurring sections that help outline the overall scope and structure of the project. While the level of detail varies from one job to another, several elements appear frequently.

  • Project Scope: Describes the rooms, surfaces, or exterior areas to be painted and may reference the general condition of those spaces.
  • Surface Preparation: Outlines the preparatory steps the painter may take, such as cleaning, sanding, or patching, based on the needs of the space.
  • Paint and Materials: Typically describes paint types, finishes, or brands selected by the client or painter for the project.
  • Schedule and Timeline: References expected start dates, anticipated project duration, and general work hours.
  • Project Access: Notes how the painter will access the property, enter work areas, or coordinate with occupants during the project.
  • Cleanup Expectations: Describes how tools, materials, and work areas are organized at the end of each day or at project completion.
  • Communication: Outlines how progress updates, questions, or changes may be discussed throughout the project.
  • Completion Review: References how the painter and client may walk through the space together at the end of the project to confirm that all work areas have been addressed.

How Interior and Exterior Painting Projects Differ in Process

Interior and exterior painting projects often follow similar planning steps, but the work itself can vary based on conditions, materials, and the spaces being updated.

Interior projects usually focus on preparing indoor surfaces, managing furniture placement, and coordinating work around daily routines. Painters may emphasize surface preparation, ventilation needs, and finish selection to match the style of the home or commercial space.

Exterior projects, by contrast, commonly reference weather conditions, outdoor surfaces, and seasonal considerations. Preparation may involve cleaning siding, removing loose paint, or addressing exposed materials. Exterior paints and coatings are often selected for durability and outdoor performance, and project timelines may shift based on temperature or precipitation.

Despite these differences, both project types share a similar goal: creating a polished, refreshed appearance tailored to the space.

Painting Contracts in Summary

A painting contract provides a structured way to outline how a painting project is planned and carried out. It typically describes project areas, preparation steps, materials, access, and communication expectations, helping both parties understand how the work will progress.

Whether for interior or exterior projects, residential homes, or commercial spaces, painting contracts offer a clear overview of how the painting team and the client coordinate tasks and timelines, from the initial walkthrough to the project’s final review.

  • Painting Contract

    Jim Clark Co

  • Painting Contract

    Jim Clark Co

    agreement

    This Painting Contract ("Agreement") is entered into on  (the “Effective Date”) by and between the Client, legal name  ("Client") and the Contractor, legal name/company  ("Contractor") (collectively, the “Parties”).


    1. Location and Access

    The painting services described in this Agreement shall be performed at the following location:

    

    


    The Client shall provide the Contractor with full and reasonable access to the property, including the necessary workspaces and utilities.


    Any limitations regarding work hours, parking, ventilation, the presence of children or pets, or other relevant access conditions shall be as follows:

    • Work Hours:  to 
    • Parking Instructions: 
    • Areas Off Limits or Restricted: 
    • Ventilation: The Client agrees to ensure proper ventilation in the work areas.
    • Children and Pets: The Client agrees to keep children and pets away from the work areas during work hours.


    2. Scope of Work

    The Contractor agrees to provide the following painting services (the “Services”):

    • Areas to be painted: 
    • Surfaces and materials involved: 
    • Paint colors and finishes: 
    • Preparation work included: 
    • Additional services: 

    All work shall be performed in accordance with industry standards and in a professional, workmanlike manner.


    3. Materials and Supplies

     The Contractor will provide all paint, tools, brushes, ladders, drop cloths, and any other materials necessary to complete the Services.


     The Client will supply the following materials: 

    


    All materials shall be of high quality and suitable for the intended surfaces and conditions unless otherwise agreed in writing.


    4. Project Timeline

    Work shall commence on  and is expected to be completed by , subject to adjustments for weather delays, supply shortages, or other unforeseen events. Should any delay occur, the Contractor shall notify the Client as soon as reasonably practicable and provide a revised completion timeline.


    5. Compensation

    Total Project Fee: $


    Payment Schedule:

    • Deposit (due upon signing): $
    • Progress Payment(s): $ on 
    • Final Payment (due upon completion): $
    • Late payments are subject to a  monthly interest fee. Additional charges shall apply for changes in scope or materials requested by the Client after commencement of the project.


    6. Independent Contractor Relationship

    The Contractor is an independent contractor and not an employee, agent, joint venture partner, or representative of the Client. The Contractor shall be solely responsible for all taxes, withholdings, insurance, licenses, and permits required by law.


    7. Insurance, Licensing, and Compliance

    The Contractor shall maintain adequate liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage for the duration of the project. The Contractor affirms that all applicable licenses are valid and current and that all work will comply with local codes and ordinances.


    8. Damage and Loss

    The Contractor agrees to take reasonable precautions to protect the Client’s property from damage during the course of the work. The Contractor shall not be responsible for damage due to pre-existing conditions, structural issues, or concealed defects.


    The Client agrees to remove or secure fragile, valuable, or obstructive items from the work areas prior to the commencement of services.


    9. Warranties

    The Contractor warrants that all work shall be free of material defects and shall conform to generally accepted painting standards for a period of  from the completion date. This warranty excludes damage caused by external factors, including to, but not limited to, moisture intrusion, wear and tear, misuse, or neglect.


    10. Amendments

    This Agreement may be amended only in writing signed by both Parties. Any verbal or informal requests for changes shall not be binding until memorialized in writing.


    11. Termination

    Either Party may terminate this Agreement:

    • With cause, upon  days’ written notice if the other Party breaches any material provision and fails to cure the breach.
    • Without cause, upon  days’ written notice, subject to payment for services rendered and non-refundable costs incurred to date.


    12. Dispute Resolution

    In the event of a dispute, the Parties agree to attempt to resolve the matter in good faith. If unsuccessful, disputes shall be resolved through:

     Mediation  Arbitration  Litigation in the courts of 


    Each Party shall bear its own legal costs and attorney’s fees unless otherwise ordered by a court or arbitrator.


    13. Entire Agreement

    This Agreement represents the entire understanding between the Parties and supersedes all prior negotiations, representations, or agreements. If any provision is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.


    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed this Agreement as of the Effective Date.


    Participants
    Signatures
    • Click to sign
      John Doe
    • Click to sign
      Jim Clark
  • Just edit, sign & send
  • ESIGN Act
  • UETA Act
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