By Naldo Neto, IRATA Level 3 and licensed painter · Updated October 2026 · 1 min read
Key takeaways
- Manufacturers accredit painters who meet their standards for licensing, insurance and training.
- Some coating warranties are only available when an accredited applicator does the work.
- The right system depends on the substrate and exposure.
- Ask which system is specified, and why, for your building.
Two buildings painted with the same brand can look completely different five years later. The difference is usually not the paint. It is the preparation, the system chosen and how it was applied.
What manufacturer accreditation means
Major paint and coatings manufacturers run programs that recognise painting contractors who meet their standards. Requirements vary between programs, but typically cover licensing, insurance, experience, training in the manufacturer's products and a commitment to apply them to specification. Some manufacturer warranties on coating systems are only available when an accredited applicator does the work.
Why the specification matters
Every coating system comes with a data sheet setting out surface preparation, primer, number of coats, film thickness, drying and recoat times, and weather limits. A coating applied outside those conditions may look fine on day one and fail early. Accredited applicators are expected to follow the specification.
Choosing the right system
- Standard acrylic systems suit sound, sheltered surfaces.
- Elastomeric membranes stretch to bridge fine cracks in render.
- Anti-carbonation coatings protect concrete reinforcement.
- Anti-corrosion systems protect steel and metalwork.
Questions to ask your painter
- Which system are you specifying, and why for this building?
- Are you accredited with that manufacturer?
- Is a manufacturer warranty available, and what does it cover?
- What workmanship warranty do you offer?
See our rope access painting and protective coatings services.
Sources and further reading
- IRATA International: rope access training and the International Code of Practice
- SafeWork NSW: managing the risk of falls at workplaces
- Standards Australia: AS/NZS 4488, AS/NZS 5532 and AS/NZS 1891.4
- NSW licence check: verify any contractor's licence
Questions
Does a paint brand guarantee a good result?
No. Preparation, choosing the right system for the surface and applying it to the manufacturer's specification matter as much as the brand.
About the authorNaldo Neto leads Tactical Height Solutions. He is an IRATA Level 3 rope access technician and licensed painter with a background in rendering and remedial work on Sydney buildings. More about Naldo.