Painter & Decorator

Tax guide for New Zealand self-employed painters and decorators

Allowable Expenses

• Tools & equipment — Brushes, rollers, spray equipment, ladders, scaffolding
• Vehicle expenses — Van or ute for equipment and material transport
• Safety equipment — PPE, respirators, safety harnesses, high-vis clothing
• Consumable materials — Masking tape, drop sheets, primer, cleaning materials
• Professional memberships — Master Painters NZ or MPIA membership

Tax Tips

• Master Painters NZ membership fees are a deductible professional expense
• Ladders and scaffolding costing over NZ$1,000 must be depreciated
• Masking tape, drop sheets, and cleaning materials are consumables — track and claim monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Can NZ painters claim paint and materials as business expenses?

Paint and materials purchased for client jobs are a cost of goods sold and are fully deductible in the year they are purchased. Keep all supplier invoices with job references.