Updated 19 October 2026. On a new client and a job over $500, take a deposit before you start. A $2,400 repaint takes $1,200 before the first day and $1,200 when the work is finished. The $1,200 is refundable for 14 days after signing, then kept. Write both amounts on the estimate, and write the date that price is good until.
Yes, on a new client and a job over $500. On a $2,400 repaint, $1,200 before the first day is a normal 50% deposit. Repeat clients with a clean payment history are the usual exception.
Yes, in most jurisdictions, as long as the non-refundable nature is clearly disclosed in the signed contract or quote. The $2,400 repaint example uses a 14-day refund instead.
On the $2,400 repaint, the $1,200 deposit is refundable for 14 days after signing and kept after that. That rule has to be on the estimate before they pay.
Show the full $2,400, then a line for the $1,200 already paid, then the $1,200 balance.
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