Painting an Apartment in Sydney: What You Need to Know

Painting an apartment is different from painting a house. Strata rules, shared access and close neighbours all shape how the job is done. Here's what to expect.

Check the strata rules first

Most strata schemes have rules about common property — which can include your front door, balcony and sometimes exterior walls. Internal repaints are usually fine, but it's worth confirming what's yours to paint and whether you need approval. For anything on common property, get written approval before work starts.

Plan around access

• Confirm lift bookings for moving materials and equipment
• Check loading zones and parking for the painter
• Let your building manager know the working hours
• Choose low-odour, low-VOC paints to minimise disruption to neighbours

What apartment painting costs

Apartment repaints are usually quoted per room or as a package. A one-bedroom unit might cost $1,500–$3,000, while a two-bedroom apartment is often $3,000–$6,000 depending on condition and whether ceilings and trims are included.

Common apartment challenges

• Tight spaces — furniture often can't be moved far, so painters work around it
• Limited ventilation — low-VOC paint and short drying times matter
• High-rise exteriors — balconies and external work need specialist access
• Timing — many owners repaint before selling or moving in

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