What to Expect When Getting a Painting Estimate

Starting a project like a home painting can be intimidating and intrusive. Bringing strangers into your home is stressful, especially to cause uproar in your place of respite. The first step is an estimate appointment. Educate yourself on what to expect when getting a painting estimate and you’ll feel confident moving forward.

Each company will have their own guidelines and standards for estimates. Within their requirements, there are a few standards you should look for.

As you go through the appointment process, keep notes of how you are feeling. Were your questions answered? Did the estimator breeze through your home? Was the estimate experience thorough? Here are more standards to look for.

Booking an Estimate Appointment

Estimates are the first step in a home painting job. Once you have started your research online, choose several companies that seem to reach your needs. You’ll want to have at least 3 appointments set with companies. Choices are important!

Typically, appointments should be readily available within the next few days of when you book. Once you send in an initial appointment request, expect to hear back from a representative of the company shortly after. They will go over preliminary questions about your job.

Once your needs are understood, the estimator will probably want to do a walkthrough of your space. This allows them to see any necessary repairs, take measurements and discuss additional work that your property could benefit from.

On the day of the appointment

Your estimator should be on time. This is important to set the tone and professionalism you can expect working with the company. Look for the estimator to arrive in professional attire, often wearing the logo of the company.

Make sure the estimator arrives with their tools of the trade. The person should not be asking to borrow your ladder or measuring tape. These are common necessities to provide an estimate. Without them, the company seems unprepared. Is this a trait that will continue on?

Understanding your Painting Project

When your estimator arrives, they should be courteous and pleasant. Some may offer to wear boot covers to protect your floors. Others may remove their shoes inside. As you talk to the estimator, feel free to discuss your wants for the outcome of the work. This includes talking about concerns or deficiencies that need to be addressed before paint can be applied.

Be sure to bring up all of your questions at the estimate appointment. This is your chance to get all of the answers you may need to make a decision on the provider. Request information like references, portfolio images or other further information at the appointment. Most company trucks are stocked with this in addition to pamphlets, business cards and other promotional information.

After the Estimate

At the end of the estimate appointment, you should receive a written copy of the estimate. This could be a handwritten copy that the estimator just wrote or an email after they return to the office. It should include prices for labor and materials, separated out for your review. There will also be information on how to move forward with this company, should you choose to book with them.

Schedule Painting

If the estimate prices are within your budget and the representatives of the company have been responsive and helpful, book your painting job. Look to receive a formal contract, schedule and payment plan. Remember, the experience should make you feel relaxed and comfortable.

Call Us!

CertaPro Painters is happy to help with your painting needs. We have expert crews for interior and exterior painting jobs. Schedule a free, no-obligation estimate appointment today.