Painting Licensing in Ontario

Painting is a voluntary (non-compulsory) trade in Ontario. No licence is legally required to operate as a painter. However, the Painter and Decorator apprenticeship is available through Skilled Trades Ontario, requiring 6,000 hours (approximately 3 years). Certification (404C) is voluntary. Red Seal endorsement is available. Painters working with lead paint in pre-1978 homes should have specific training in lead-safe work practices.

Ask if they have a Certificate of Qualification (404C). For older homes, ask about lead-safe work practices training.

(1) Quotes dramatically below competitors - likely skimping on prep, primer, or paint quality (2) No liability insurance - paint spills and ladder falls are real risks (3) Plans to use only one coat or skip primer - a sign of cutting corners (4) Cannot specify the brand and type of paint they will use

(1) What brand and grade of paint will you use? (2) How many coats will you apply, and will primer be included? (3) What surface preparation is included in the quote? (4) Do you carry liability insurance? (5) What is your policy if I am not satisfied with the finish?

While not legally required, it is strongly recommended that paintings carry liability insurance. Ask for proof of coverage before hiring.

The Red Seal endorsement is a nationally recognized certification that allows tradespeople to work across all Canadian provinces and territories without additional testing. A Red Seal-endorsed tradesperson has met a standardized level of competency.

Typical rates for paintings in Ontario range from $40-$70/hour per painter. Square footage, number of rooms, ceiling height, surface condition (prep work like patching, sanding, priming adds cost), paint quality (premium paints like Benjamin Moore Regal or Aura add $30-$60/gallon), number of coats, colour changes (dark to light requires more coats), trim and detail work, and accessibility (high ceilings, stairwells). Labour is 70-80% of the total cost. Add 13% HST in Ontario.