We're doing tenant improvements on a leased space in Burnaby. Who's responsible for painting?

In most commercial lease arrangements in Burnaby and across Metro Vancouver, painting as part of tenant improvements (TIs) is the tenant's responsibility — but the specifics depend entirely on your lease agreement. There are a few common scenarios.

If you have a tenant improvement allowance (TIA) from the landlord, painting costs can usually be claimed against that allowance. A typical TIA in the Burnaby market ranges from $20 to $60 per square foot for office space, depending on the building class and lease term. Painting is one of the most cost-effective TIs you can do, often transforming a space for a fraction of your allowance.

For a standard shell condition space — bare drywall with tape and mud but no paint — you will need to prime and apply two coats. For a previously occupied space, one to two coats over existing paint is usually sufficient unless you are making dramatic colour changes. Many landlords require that you return the space to a neutral colour at lease end, so keep that future cost in mind when choosing bold brand colours for feature walls.

Your lease may also specify approved contractors or require that all TI work, including painting, be done by licensed and insured tradespeople. Buildings in the Metrotown or Brentwood area often have strict building management rules about working hours, elevator booking for material delivery, and protection of common areas during your renovation.

Before hiring a painter, review your lease's TI clause with your landlord or property manager and confirm what approvals are needed. Getting alignment upfront avoids disputes later.

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Find a Painting Contractor

Vancouver Paint Contractors connects you with experienced contractors through the https://vancouverconstructionnetwork.com:

• Premier Grounds Contracting ✓
• SteelEdge Reinforcing Ltd. ✓
• Holloway Painting ✓