Questions to Ask When Hiring Professional Painters

You have decided to attack your latest home improvement project. You know what you want, or at least have an idea of how you want your finished product to look. Or maybe, you have some colors picked out but need a little more direction. That’s no problem at all. When hiring professional painters, you need professionals that can answer all your questions and provide you with the confidence to start your amazing renovation project. 

Prior to meeting with your professional exterior or interior painters, it is a good idea to do some research and gather all your ideas together to share at your estimate. Also, it is a good idea to write down all the questions you have so you have a point of reference and won’t forget them at your meeting. 

Going into the project comfortable and understanding the scope of work will help to get both the crew and you on the same page. 

At your estimate appointment, expect to do a complete walk through of the job area. Your pro may take measurements or ask questions about the intended outcome you are trying to achieve.  Also, your contractor will be able to point  out any potential repairs or issues with the job. These issues should be discussed before your estimator leaves.

To help you, here are some questions to ask the professional painters. 

• What exactly does the estimate cover?
• Will they prep the area prior to painting?
• What kind of paint will be used?
• How will any repair issues be addressed?
• What is the time frame for completion?
• Do they provide a warranty on their work?
• What types of payment do they accept & when is payment due?

Those are just a few basic questions to begin your meeting but there are more in depth issues that you should cover during your estimate meeting.

Here are just a few issues you should discuss at your estimate meeting:

Paint selection

Ask your estimator how the paint will be chosen. Who picks the brand? Do you get to provide colors and finishes? Is there a color consultant to work with? Some painters prefer particular manufacturers when it comes to paint. They usually have brands they work with regularly and know the warranties, so they feel comfortable standing behind them.

Preparation

Ask about what preparation will be done before the paint is opened. It’s important to know who is providing repairs. Will you be expected to contract it out prior to painting or can the crew provide light carpentry work? Beyond that, ask who is responsible for items like clearing out furniture, taking fixtures down or taping off items. 

Crews and Timing

There should be a discussion at your appointment or shortly after when the project will commence. A schedule is normally provided at least with the estimate or contract. This will give you an idea not only when, but who is leading your painting job. If there are days or times you are unavailable, make sure they are clear with your project coordinator.

Insurance and Licensing

Question every provider about licensing and insurance. Do not proceed with any painter that cannot provide this information to you, no matter how great their price is. You could be on the hook if anything goes wrong on the job. Repairs and potential injuries are costly prospects.

Payment

A full schedule of payment should be discussed. If it’s not brought up to you, make sure you ask. Be wary of a company that needs any more than 50% upfront. This down payment will be used to secure a crew, reserve dates and gather materials for your project. Final payment should not be paid until the work is complete and a final walk through done. Once you are satisfied with the work, the final payment can be submitted.

After the appointment, you should expect to receive a copy of the estimate in writing. This should include a breakdown of material and labor costs. Also, an itemized list of work to be done is normally included. 

Estimates usually have an expiration date. So make sure you know how long your estimate is good for if you do not schedule your project immediately. 

This is in no way a full list of things to cover prior to hiring professional painters, but it is a good starting point for your professional painting project. 

Ready to get started? Schedule a free, no obligation estimate with our CertaPro Painters today!!