5 Tips to Hire the Best Commercial Painting Contractors
Posted on April 21, 2020
Running a business requires attention to so many details that when cosmetic things like painting come up, it’s hard to feel inspired. Hiring painters to come into your business and cause a ruckus is probably not high on your priority list. Alas, it has to be done sometimes. Getting informed about what to expect and ask can allow you to feel confident in the process.
Here are 5 tips to hire the best commercial painting contractors.
Hire Professionals Commercial Contractors
Prices can be tempting when you are hiring painters. Lower prices are offered by handymen or college kids to complete the work. Remember, the walls of your business set the tone for employees and patrons alike. Messy walls can read to a customer as a careless company. Your less than stellar walls could cost you work. Hiring a professional painter for your job means that you will get not only a finished project but the crews will carry required licensing, bonding and insurance.
Compare a minimum of three commercial painting contractors.
After initial research, you will have hopefully found several options you’re happy with. Schedule estimates with each of them and make it a point to meet with each. You will want several options to choose from. Each should provide you with full information on their processes and policies. This includes warranties, deposits, repairs, and timelines. You should also inquire what happens should there be inclement weather or work happening during the project.
Interview potential commercial painting contractors.
During your estimate appointment, make sure you get answers to any questions you have about working with that company. It’s the job of the estimator to set your expectations for the job and the crew. While you’re setting up the appointments and going through the job, take into account the way you are approached and treated. How did the company treat you? Were you taken care of in a timely and professional manner? Are your questions answered? This should all be taken as an example of the way you’ll be taken care of through the project.
Beyond talking about specific details of your job, here are some more general questions you should consider asking:
- How long has your company been in business?
- What type of paint and how many coats do you use?
- What protective equipment do your employees use?
- How do you handle paint spills?
- Do you utilize any subcontractors?
All of these should be easily answered by your estimator. If they hesitate or don’t know, move on to the next contractor on your list.
Ask for references and contact them.
References are a good way to understand what it’s like to work with a company. When getting references, remember that a company will not provide you the contact information of customers that were unhappy. Use their references in conjunction with online reviews. The online option will provide you with a more realistic and unbiased view of the company.
Always get it in writing.
An estimator can provide you with general ideas of what work you need and the costs for it. Either after your appointment or via email later, you should get a full listing of the work and costs to do it. Avoid a scrawled number on a business card or notepad. Your estimate needs to include at least:
- Expected start and end dates
- Times for each workday
- Preparation and clean-up details
- Any applicable warranties
- Payment expectations including schedule
We’d love to be considered to be your commercial painting contractors. Schedule a free estimate to meet with us today.