What a Painting Warranty Should Cover (and What It Usually Excludes)
A painting warranty usually covers failures caused by the contractor's prep or application, such as peeling, blistering and flaking, for a set period. It usually does not cover normal fading, damage from leaks the painter did not fix, or wear on surfaces you walk on.
Two Kinds of Warranty
- Workmanship warranty from the contractor: covers how the job was prepared and applied.
- Manufacturer warranty on the paint: covers product defects, usually limited to replacement paint, and only when the label instructions were followed.
What Is Usually Covered
- Peeling, blistering or flaking of the paint applied
- Labor and materials to fix the affected area
What Is Usually Excluded
- Fading and chalking over time
- Damage from water sources outside the scope: roof leaks, gutters, sprinklers, plumbing
- New rot in wood that was not replaced
- Decks and other horizontal wood (stain wear is maintenance)
- Physical damage, harsh cleaning, pressure washing new paint
- Products the owner supplied
How to Make a Claim
Photograph the problem, note the job date and location, and contact the painter in writing. A fair warranty explains how quickly they inspect and what happens next.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a painting warranty be?
Many contractors offer one to three years on workmanship; longer warranties often have more exclusions.
Does a lifetime paint warranty cover labor?
Usually not. Manufacturer warranties typically cover the paint, not the labor to repaint.
Why are decks excluded?
Foot traffic, standing water and sun wear stain on horizontal surfaces as normal maintenance.
Is the warranty transferable?
Some are; ask if you plan to sell.
Our Warranty
Every completed job carries our 2-year workmanship warranty. See exterior painting or contact us.