
Based on looking at the website 1stcoat.com.au, it appears to be a legitimate local painting service operating in the Sydney area. The site provides ample information about their services, experience, and customer feedback, which is a good sign for transparency. However, a deeper dive reveals some areas that could be improved for a more robust online presence and consumer trust.
Overall Review Summary:
- Website Presence: Professional, easy to navigate, with clear service offerings.
- Contact Information: Readily available phone number and email address.
- Proof of Legitimacy: ABN/ACN not explicitly visible on the homepage, but a licence number (32780C) is provided. This is a crucial piece of information often sought by consumers for verification.
- Customer Testimonials: Numerous positive reviews are featured, including specific names and dates, which adds credibility.
- Service Guarantee: A 5-year warranty is prominently displayed, which is a strong positive.
- Transparency: Good overall transparency regarding services and contact methods, but could benefit from a clearer display of business registration details.
- Ethical Standing: As a painting service, it aligns with ethical business practices. There are no indications of forbidden or questionable services.
While 1stcoat.com.au seems like a decent local business, always proceed with due diligence for any service provider. For those looking to ensure they’re engaging with the most transparent and verified businesses, especially in the home services sector, there are many robust alternatives to consider.
Best Alternatives for Home Improvement & Professional Services:
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- Key Features: Connects customers with local tradespeople for various services, including painting. Allows for competitive quotes and reviews.
- Average Price: Varies significantly based on the project and service provider.
- Pros: Wide range of service categories, competitive bidding, customer reviews for transparency.
- Cons: Quality can vary between individual service providers; requires vetting on the customer’s part.
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- Key Features: A leading online marketplace for tradespeople in Australia. Users post jobs, and up to three verified tradies respond with quotes. Includes tradie profiles with reviews and ratings.
- Average Price: Project-dependent; no fixed pricing.
- Pros: Vetted tradies, multiple quotes for comparison, user reviews for informed decisions, secure payment options.
- Cons: Can be overwhelming with too many options; some tradies might be slow to respond.
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- Key Features: While Amazon Australia’s direct local services offering isn’t as prominent as in the US, searching for “local services” on Amazon can sometimes yield links to related home service categories or products that facilitate DIY or professional hiring. For instance, finding tools and then seeking local professionals.
- Average Price: N/A for a direct service; pricing varies for tools/materials.
- Pros: Integrates with a trusted retail platform; potential for bundles with products.
- Cons: Not a direct service booking platform in Australia; more geared towards product sales.
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- Key Features: Dulux, a well-known paint brand, offers a program to accredit painters who meet specific quality standards and uphold professional practices. This provides an added layer of assurance for consumers.
- Average Price: Typically higher than non-accredited painters due to quality assurance and professionalism.
- Pros: Guaranteed quality and professionalism, backed by a major brand, adherence to industry best practices.
- Cons: Limited to painters who specifically use Dulux products or are part of their network; potentially higher cost.
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- Key Features: This is an industry association for professional painters. They often have a “Find a Painter” directory that lists members who adhere to industry standards and codes of conduct.
- Average Price: Varies by project and location.
- Pros: Connects you with reputable, often experienced painters, adherence to industry standards, recourse through the association if issues arise.
- Cons: Membership doesn’t guarantee every project will be flawless, still requires individual assessment.
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- Key Features: Similar to Hipages and ServiceSeeking, Oneflare allows users to post jobs and receive quotes from local service providers. It covers a broad spectrum of services, including painting.
- Average Price: Depends on the specific job.
- Pros: User-friendly interface, multiple quotes, verified professionals, customer reviews and ratings.
- Cons: Competition among service providers can lead to varying quality of responses; requires time to review quotes.
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- Key Features: A broader platform for various tasks, including painting. Users post tasks, and “taskers” bid to complete them. Pricing is often negotiable.
- Average Price: Highly variable, as it’s a bidding system.
- Pros: Flexibility in task definition, potential for cost savings through bidding, wide range of available taskers.
- Cons: Quality can be inconsistent as it’s a peer-to-peer platform; less specialisation in specific trades compared to dedicated platforms.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
A Deep Dive into 1stcoat.com.au: An Australian Painting Service
When you’re looking for a reliable service, especially something as critical as painting your home or business, the online presence often forms your first impression. 1stcoat.com.au, a painting service based in Sydney, aims to provide that initial trust factor through its website. We’re going to break down their digital storefront, examining what works well and where they might sharpen their brushstrokes for an even better customer experience.
1stcoat.com.au Review & First Look
Upon landing on 1stcoat.com.au, you’re greeted with a straightforward, clean design. The immediate impression is that of a professional local business. They highlight key selling points right at the top: a 5% discount for social media follows, free quotes, and a quick response time of 40 minutes or less. This sets a positive tone, indicating a service that values responsiveness and customer engagement.
- Initial Trust Signals:
- Prominent contact details: Phone number and email are easy to find.
- Clear service offerings: Residential, commercial, strata painting are all listed.
- Experience highlighted: “Over 20 years of painting experience” is a strong claim.
- Warranty: A “5 Years Warranty on Every Job” is a significant trust builder.
- Licensing: “Fully Licenced (332780C) and Insured” is a critical piece of information for any trade service in Australia. This licence number (32780C) refers to a contractor licence in NSW. For consumers, it’s always advisable to verify this licence number through the NSW Fair Trading website to ensure it’s current and valid.
- Website Layout and Navigation:
- The website employs a modern, single-page scroll design, which keeps all essential information accessible without numerous clicks.
- Sections like “Why Choose Us,” “Our Service,” “Reviews,” and “Our Projects” are clearly delineated.
- A sticky header with quick links for Home, Services, Reviews, Projects, About Us, and Contact ensures easy navigation regardless of where you are on the page.
However, a critical omission for any Australian business’s online presence is the lack of an easily identifiable Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN) on the homepage or in the footer. While a licence number is provided, an ABN is crucial for business verification through the Australian Business Register (ABR) and is a standard expectation for legitimate operations. This minor but significant detail could enhance their perceived transparency.
1stcoat.com.au Features
The website details a comprehensive array of features designed to instil confidence and inform potential clients about their service capabilities.
- Comprehensive Service Range:
- Exterior Painting: Focusing on beautification, protection from weather, and extending property lifetime.
- Includes Residential Painting, Commercial Painting, Deck Painting, Driveway Painting, Doors & Window Frame Painting, Railings & Fences Painting, and Brick Painting.
- Interior Painting: Experts in colour consultation and handling various project complexities.
- Includes House & Apartment Painting, Office Painting, Kitchen Cabinets & Cupboards Painting, Bathroom Tile & Tubes Painting, Ceiling Painting, and Garage Painting.
- Industrial & Strata Painting: Catering to larger-scale projects with a focus on customer satisfaction from inspection to completion.
- Exterior Painting: Focusing on beautification, protection from weather, and extending property lifetime.
- Customer-Centric Promises:
- “We always confirm”: Emphasises constant communication.
- “We respect everyone’s property”: Highlights care for client’s assets.
- “We check-in”: Promises regular updates throughout the project.
- “We arrive on time”: Underscores punctuality and respect for client’s schedule.
- Strong Testimonial Section: The “Google Reviews EXCELLENT Based on 15 reviews” section with specific customer names and detailed feedback (e.g., Cedrick Burling, Zhuang Shi, Janis Malone) is a significant plus. Testimonials are powerful, and seeing real names and descriptive comments builds trust. For instance, Janis Malone’s comment, “Brought all the equipment needed and even bought the paint for me to reimburse!” speaks to going the extra mile.
- Data Point: Roughly 70% of their work comes from referrals, according to their site, which is a strong indicator of client satisfaction and repeat business. This kind of organic growth is often more reliable than extensive marketing.
- Project Portfolio: While the “Our Project” section shows images, the specific details for each project are limited on the homepage itself. It lists service areas like “North Sydney Painting” and “Eastern Suburbs Painting,” implying local expertise. A more detailed case study approach for each project, perhaps with before-and-after photos and client testimonials linked directly to them, could further enhance this section.
1stcoat.com.au Pros & Cons
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of an online presence is key to making an informed decision.
- Pros:
- Clear Value Proposition: Free quotes, fast response, 5-year warranty, and over 20 years of experience are clearly communicated upfront.
- Transparent Testimonials: Real customer names and detailed reviews add significant credibility. The mention of Google Reviews provides an external verification point.
- Comprehensive Service List: They clearly outline the types of painting services offered (interior, exterior, residential, commercial, strata) and specific areas within those categories.
- Licensed and Insured: The explicit mention of being “Fully Licenced (332780C) and Insured” is vital for consumer protection and peace of mind.
- Strong Customer Service Focus: Promises regarding communication, property respect, punctuality, and consistent check-ins demonstrate a client-first approach.
- Local Focus: The targeting of Sydney and its specific regions (North Sydney, Eastern Suburbs, etc.) makes them a suitable option for local residents.
- Ease of Contact: Multiple contact methods (phone, email, online form) are readily available.
- Cons:
- Missing ABN/ACN: The absence of an Australian Business Number or Australian Company Number on the homepage or footer is a significant oversight for a legitimate business in Australia. This makes it harder for potential customers to quickly verify the business’s registration status.
- Limited Project Details: While project images are shown, there isn’t a detailed breakdown or case study for each project, which could provide more insight into their capabilities and problem-solving skills.
- Reliance on Social Media for Discount: Offering a discount solely for social media follows might not appeal to all users and could be seen as a way to inflate social metrics rather than offer a universal benefit.
- Single-Page Design for Detailed Information: While good for quick browsing, a single-page design can sometimes make it harder to find specific, in-depth information if not structured perfectly. For example, detailed terms of the 5-year warranty aren’t immediately accessible.
- No Online Booking System: While they offer a fast quote, an integrated online booking or scheduling tool could streamline the process for some customers, especially in today’s digital age.
1stcoat.com.au Alternatives
When considering any service, exploring alternatives is a smart move. For painting services in Australia, you have several excellent options, ranging from large platforms to local accreditation bodies.
- ServiceSeeking.com.au: An Australian platform where you can post your painting job and receive competitive quotes from local painters. It’s great for comparing options and seeing reviews.
- Hipages.com.au: Another popular Australian marketplace connecting consumers with local tradies, including painters. They focus on verified professionals and offer a smooth quote process.
- Dulux Accredited Painters: If you’re looking for painters specifically endorsed by a major paint manufacturer, the Dulux accreditation program provides a list of painters who meet high standards of quality and professionalism.
- Master Painters Australia: This industry association often provides a directory of its members. Hiring a Master Painter typically means they adhere to a code of conduct and industry best practices, offering an added layer of assurance.
- Oneflare: Similar to ServiceSeeking, Oneflare is a platform that allows you to get multiple quotes from local businesses for various services, including painting.
- Local pros on Amazon Services: While Amazon Australia doesn’t have a direct “Home Services” section like its US counterpart, searching for “local services” or “painting services” might yield links to general categories or related tools and products, which could then lead to finding local professionals.
- Airtasker: For smaller painting jobs or tasks, Airtasker can be a flexible option where you post your job and “taskers” bid on it. It’s a broad platform, so due diligence on individual taskers is important.
How to Verify a Painting Service in Australia
Before hiring any trade service, especially for significant home improvement projects, proper verification is paramount. This ensures you’re dealing with a legitimate business and protected in case of issues.
- Check Business Registration:
- Australian Business Number (ABN): Always ask for the ABN. You can then use the Australian Business Register (ABR) website to search for the ABN and verify the business’s legal name, registration status, and entity type. This is the first step in ensuring they are a registered entity in Australia.
- Australian Company Number (ACN): If they are a registered company, they will have an ACN. This can be searched on the ASIC Register.
- Verify Licence and Insurance:
- State-Specific Licences: Painting is a regulated trade in some Australian states, particularly for larger jobs or specific types of work. For instance, in NSW, the licence number (like 332780C mentioned by 1stcoat.com.au) should be verifiable on the NSW Fair Trading website. Each state has its own licensing body (e.g., QBCC in Queensland, VBA in Victoria).
- Public Liability Insurance: Ensure the painter has current public liability insurance. This protects you in case of accidental damage to your property or injury to a third party caused by their work. Always ask for a certificate of currency from their insurer.
- References and Reviews:
- Beyond website testimonials, ask for independent references. Speak to past clients if possible.
- Check third-party review sites like Google My Business, Word of Mouth Online, or the platforms mentioned in the alternatives (ServiceSeeking, Hipages) for broader feedback. Be wary of businesses with exclusively 5-star reviews and no negative feedback, as this can sometimes be fabricated.
- Written Quotes and Contracts:
- Always obtain a detailed, written quote outlining the scope of work, materials, timeline, and total cost. Avoid verbal agreements.
- For larger jobs, a formal contract is essential. It should specify payment schedules, warranty terms, dispute resolution processes, and what happens if unforeseen issues arise.
- Payment Schedule:
- Be cautious of painters asking for large upfront deposits. A reasonable deposit is typically 10-20% for smaller jobs. For larger projects, progressive payments linked to milestones are standard practice. Avoid paying the full amount until the job is completed to your satisfaction.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of issues and ensure you hire a professional, reliable painting service that meets your expectations.
FAQ
What is 1stcoat.com.au?
1stcoat.com.au is the official website for 1st Coat Painting, a professional painting service based in Sydney, Australia, specialising in residential, commercial, and strata painting projects. Thewebdesigncorp.com.au Review
Is 1stcoat.com.au a legitimate business?
Based on the website’s information, including a listed licence number (332780C), physical address, and contact details, 1stcoat.com.au appears to be a legitimate local business. However, verifying the ABN/ACN and the licence through official government channels is always recommended for full assurance.
What services does 1stcoat.com.au offer?
1stcoat.com.au offers a comprehensive range of painting services, including interior painting (houses, apartments, offices, kitchens, bathrooms, ceilings, garages), exterior painting (residential, commercial, decks, driveways, doors, fences, bricks), and specialised industrial and strata painting.
How long has 1stcoat.com.au been in business?
The website states that the 1st Coat Painting team has “Over 20 years of painting experience,” indicating a long history in the industry.
Does 1stcoat.com.au offer a warranty on their painting jobs?
Yes, 1stcoat.com.au explicitly offers a “5 Years Warranty on Every Job,” which is a strong commitment to the quality and durability of their work.
How can I get a quote from 1stcoat.com.au?
You can get a free quote by clicking on the “Free Quote” buttons prominently displayed on their homepage or by contacting them via their provided phone number (0435 012 377) or email ([email protected]). They claim to respond in 40 minutes or less.
Where is 1stcoat.com.au located?
Their listed address is 124 Lawson St, Paddington NSW 2021, indicating their primary operational base in Sydney.
What areas does 1stcoat.com.au service?
1stcoat.com.au primarily services the Sydney area, including specific regions like North Sydney, Eastern Suburbs, Northern Beaches, and Southern Sydney.
Are there any discounts offered by 1stcoat.com.au?
Yes, 1stcoat.com.au offers a 5% discount on the painting service fee if you follow them on Facebook or Instagram.
Does 1stcoat.com.au have customer reviews?
Yes, the website features a “Quality Painters Google Reviews EXCELLENT Based on 15 reviews” section, displaying positive testimonials from various clients.
Is 1stcoat.com.au insured?
Yes, the website states they are “Fully Licenced (332780C) and Insured,” providing protection in case of any incidents during the painting process. Healthness.com.au Review
What is the typical response time for 1stcoat.com.au?
According to their website, they respond to inquiries for quotes in “40 minutes or less,” highlighting their commitment to quick communication.
Can I see examples of 1stcoat.com.au’s previous work?
Yes, the website includes an “Our Project” section with images showcasing some of their completed painting projects.
How do I contact 1stcoat.com.au?
You can contact them by phone at 0435 012 377 or by email at [email protected]. An online contact form is also available via their “Contact” page.
What are some alternatives to 1stcoat.com.au for painting services in Australia?
Some popular alternatives include online marketplaces like ServiceSeeking.com.au, Hipages.com.au, and Oneflare.com.au, as well as accredited programs like Dulux Accredited Painters and the Master Painters Australia directory.
How important is it to verify a painter’s licence number?
It is very important to verify a painter’s licence number, especially in states like NSW where licensing is required for certain building work. This ensures they are legally qualified and regulated by Fair Trading or similar state bodies, providing a layer of consumer protection.
What should I look for in a painter’s quote?
A comprehensive quote should detail the scope of work, types and brands of paint to be used, preparation steps, number of coats, timeline for completion, total cost (including GST), payment schedule, and warranty details.
What does “Fully Insured” mean for a painting service?
“Fully Insured” typically means the painting service carries public liability insurance, which covers damages to your property or injuries to third parties that may occur as a result of their work. It’s crucial for your protection.
How much does painting service typically cost in Sydney?
The cost of painting services in Sydney can vary significantly based on factors like the size of the area, type of paint, complexity of the job, required preparation, and the painter’s experience. It’s best to get multiple quotes for an accurate estimate.
What is an ABN and why is it important for an Australian business?
An ABN (Australian Business Number) is a unique 11-digit number that identifies a business to the government and community. It’s important because it allows businesses to register for GST, interact with the ATO, and generally signifies a registered, legitimate business entity in Australia. Its absence on a homepage can raise minor concerns regarding transparency.
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