Let’s get one thing out of the way, finding a professional painter isn’t hard. You can simply go on google or search for one in your area.
Unfortunately, not all painters are created equal. Some specialize in larger, more complex projects while some only do residential work. Additionally, some are vastly experienced while others are still learning their trade.
While a painter’s experience and skill level are typically reflected in their price, some overcharge. This means you may be paying extra for someone, who may or may not have the experience you’re looking for.
To ensure you’re getting a great painter for your project without paying too much, here are 10 steps to follow highlighted on paintcentric.com:
Shop Around and Do Price Comparisons
The very first step is to shop around for a painter. Places like Craigslist, Google, HomeAdvisor and Yelp are great places to start your research. Look at their services and check how much they charge. Make sure to compare prices, so you can get the best deal for your budget.
Check References and Reviews
Once you have a few potential painters in mind, it’s time to get a second opinion. Do a quick google search for reviews or check with the Better Business Bureau to get an unbiased opinion.
Additionally, ask each painter for references of past jobs they’ve completed and see how satisfied their previous customers were. Asking for references does two things:
First, it shows the standard of work the painter has done in the past. Second, it provides a better glimpse on what kind of person you’re dealing with. For example, are they reliable and do they show up on time?
Check their Portfolio
A painter’s portfolio is the total sum of all the work they have done. In addition to seeing their handiwork when it comes to painting, you’ll also see what projects they do. Some prefer to work on residential homes, while others opt for commercial buildings.
By looking at painting portfolios, you’ll know if they’re the right person for the job. If you require a painter who can paint feature walls, make sure to check the portfolio and ensure they have the relevant experience.
Read the Contract Carefully
Before signing off on any contract, you’ll want a written breakdown of all project costs. These will include materials, labour, and any additional expenses related to the project. You should also be provided a timeline of when they expect to finish the project.
Once you have your contract, read it carefully and make sure there are no hidden fees in the fine print. If there are ambiguous fees, always ask for clarification. You’ll be surprised at how many simply glance over the contract and miss important details.
Look for Insurance
If something happens during a project, you don’t want to be on the hook for any damages or accidents. Most professional painters will have general liability insurance in addition to worker’s compensation coverage. So always ask, and more importantly, ensure they provide proof of insurance.
The same goes for licenses. While you can check online on government websites to see if a painter has the proper license for your area, always ask for proof of license. This ensures they’re fully qualified to complete the job.
Request an On-Site Estimate
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential painters, it’s time to get into the specifics. While service prices may be shown online, they can always fluctuate depending on the project.
Therefore, request an onsite estimate. Once your painter has fully evaluated the project, they can give you an accurate price. During the visit, ask any questions and don’t forget to mention any special requests you may have. For example, you may request a painter to only use low VOC paint as it releases less pollution than high VOC paint.
Discuss Payment Terms
Are you required to pay by the hour or a fixed price?
Payment terms typically vary on the project and the company you’re dealing with. Furthermore, a larger project may require a downpayment and further deposits, while a smaller job may require full payment right away.
Be sure to have your financial agreement in writing before work begins. You don’t want to be surprised with extra costs after the project is completed.
Ensure Cleanup is Included
Painting can be messy, so ensure your painter cleans up after themselves once the work is done. The clean-up process will typically include:
- Moving furniture back to its original place
- Disposing of used materials like paint cans, painter’s tape, etc.
- Removing all drop cloths, paint splatters and any other debris
While you can simply ask your painter if it’s included in the contract, always get it in writing. This way you’re guaranteed everything will be done to your satisfaction.
Ensure the Company has a Work Warranty
To the average person, painting simply involves splashing and brushing paint against a wall. However, this is far from the truth. First, a painter has to clean and repair any wall damage, sand the wall and prime it for future paint coats.
Without proper wall preparation, paint will not adhere to the wall correctly and will chip or peel within a few months. Unfortunately, this happens all too often with inexperienced painters and homeowners have to pick up the tab to repair it.
That’s why always ask your painter if they provide a written warranty. Most professional companies offer some sort of satisfaction guarantee that states they’ll return to repair any areas that have been painted incorrectly.
Get a Referral
We’ve discussed looking online for reviews, but nothing beats first-hand feedback. Ask your friends and family if they have any recommendations for a painter in the area. This ensures two things:
- You’ll receive a deeper understanding of the painter’s skill level and attitude. For example, if they showed up late and refused to clean up after, you’ll know right away.
- You’re more likely to receive better pricing since friend and family referrals will usually be rewarded with discounts. Remember, local painters often cater to the local community, so a referral from someone in your area will be greatly appreciated.
With these 10 steps, you’ll have no problem finding the right contractor for your painting project. Shop around and don’t be afraid to probe for information. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your home. Good luck!
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