If you have just purchased a new place or decided your home needs painting, then you’re ready to find a painting company. However, how you go about hiring a company can make a huge difference in your satisfaction with the completed work. Hiring a painting company involves research and asking important questions to find competitive pricing and professional services. These questions may help you to get started and learn the types of things that need to be asked before hiring.
Painting Companies
Where can I find painting companies?
The best people to ask for painting referrals may be your neighbors, friends, relatives or co-workers. Since you already have an established relationship with these people, you are more than likely to get honest and helpful information. A neighbor who just had their home painted can supply you with details about their experience and if they were pleased with the job.
You can also find advertisements in your local paper or visit nearby paint stores and home improvement centers for paint company recommendations.
Services
Do your painting services also include sanding, drywall work or minor repairs?
If some of your interior or exterior surfaces have dry rot, weather damage or need repair, you’ll want to know if the company can provide this type of work before painting begins.
Company/Credentials
How many years have you been in the painting business?
Look for companies that have been in operation for at least two years or more. Companies that have long work histories may be more dependable, professional, organized and deliver what they promise. It is also smart to check out the Better Business Bureau for any complaints or excellent ratings.
Are you a member of any contractor associations for painters?
Professional painting companies are usually members of at least one contractor association. This helps you to verify the standard of services they have provided to customers in the past.
Do you guarantee the work?
The paint and products used on the project should come with their own warranty, but contractors should also have written guarantees for workmanship.
How many employees will be working my painting job?
The number of employees can determine how quickly the job may be completed, which means less time that your household routines are disrupted.
References
Do you have references for jobs you have completed recently?
Always ask for three or more references from previous customers. Ask them if they were satisfied with the work. Try to clarify if the final cost was reasonably close to the estimate and if the painting job was completed on time according to the terms stated in the contract.
Costs
Can you come over to see the project and submit an estimate or bid?
Each company should physically view the painting project at your home to determine how much preparation work is needed and how large of a job is involved.
What is included in your bid?
The bid should spell out the brands of paint to be used, repair work, painting preparation work and all associated costs.
Legal Requirements
Do you carry insurance and have a contractor’s license?
According to Klappenberger and Son, “The paint company that you hire should carry liability insurance in case of accidents. If they provide employees to paint, they should be covered under workers’ compensation. If the company uses sub-contractors, they should be able to supply their own proof of insurance for liability coverage.”
Paint contractors should be licensed with the State licensing board.
Before hiring a painting company, make sure they have the qualifications for the project, insurance and licenses, and a good work history. In addition, decide if you feel comfortable with the people that will be performing the work in your home.
