Painting Licensing in Quebec

Painting in Quebec does not require a specific provincial licence for individual workers. However, on regulated construction sites (governed by Act R-20), painters must hold a CCQ competency certificate. The painter apprenticeship through the CCQ consists of three periods of 2,000 hours each (6,000 hours total, approximately 3 years). Contractors performing painting as part of larger construction projects may need an appropriate RBQ licence. Painters working with lead paint in pre-1978 buildings should have specific training in lead-safe work practices. Red Seal endorsement is available for interprovincial mobility.

Ask if they hold a CCQ competency certificate. For older buildings, 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.

In Quebec, most contractors performing construction work must hold an RBQ (Régie du bâtiment du Québec) licence. You can verify any contractor's licence on the RBQ's online Licence Holders' Registry at rbq.gouv.qc.ca. Always ask for the licence number and verify it before hiring.

Typical rates for paintings in Quebec 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.