HOW TO CHOOSE A PAINTING CONTRACTOR

Write a description of your project. Be as specific as possible, and note your paint colors, gloss levels, and target project completion date.

Talk to people you trust and get recommendations. Your local Dunn-Edwards store is a great place to start!

Contact painters and request at least three references from each, with photos if possible. When you evaluate references, consider the following:
 

• Was the job completed on time?
• Were they satisfied with the results?
• Did the final cost match the quote?
• Was the painter’s work unnecessarily disruptive?
• Would they hire the painter again?

Invite your top three contenders to visit and provide a quote. Give them your list of goals, and ask them to include these details on the quote:
 

• Painter’s contact information
• Your contact information
• Description of the project, including all areas to be prepped and painted
• Coatings (including brand names), colors and sheens to be used in each area
• Completion date
• Breakdown of materials and labor costs
• Total project cost
• Painter’s signature and quote date
• Certificate of insurance

Pay attention to each painter’s presentation. Are they polite, professional, and dressed appropriately? Did they send a quote in a reasonable time frame?

Painting can be hazardous work. To make sure you are not held responsible for job-related injuries or damage to your property, review the painters’ certificates of insurance carefully to be sure their coverage is current.

Some cities and states require painters to prove competency and safety knowledge. Ask candidates for proof of licensing if it is required in your area.

Once you’ve selected a painting contractor, make sure you both sign a contract. It should include all of the details from the quote plus payment terms.

To protect yourself and ensure that the project is done to your satisfaction, follow these payment tips:
 

• Never pay cash
• Never pay the entire cost of the project upfront
• Keep all payment records
• Only make your final payment once you are completely satisfied with the work done

If you’re happy with the painter you chose, give them a shout-out on Google reviews, Yelp, social media, the painter’s website, or old-fashioned word of mouth.