Are you planning to have your home repainted? Your time is precious – leave the job to the professionals! That stress is not going to help you. However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that any painter will do. Here are some tips to guide you to the right contractor:
- Ask around!
By far, your best way in finding a good commercial painter (or any other service professional, in fact) is asking for referrals from people you actually know and trust – friends, relatives, neighbors, etc. Read more about this in the site at http://videos.huffingtonpost.com/exterior-house-painting-tips-61997144. Or your local hardware could also be a good source of information.
- Get estimates from 2-3 contractors.
It doesn’t matter if you ask two or two hundred contractors for an estimate – the total amounts should roughly be in the same price range. If you find a considerable difference between two quotes, be suspicious – someone’s planning to cut some corners.
- Call and interview each and every prospect.
During this conversation, there are a few questions you must certainly ask. First off, how long has it been since they started in business? Second, do they have the right licenses? In some states, licensing is not required so you do have to check. Third, do they have insurance and are they bonded? This can be crucial in the event that a worker gets injured or accidentally damages your property while doing the job. Fourth, do they take membership to any local or national industry association? Other practical concerns to look into include the products they use, and whether or not they provide references, offer a written work guarantee, and subcontract. Added references about this are described in the given link.
- Be particular about project details.
It’s wise to show each of your prospects all the areas to be painted in relation to your needs and any aspects that may impact the project’s price. You need to be very detailed about which surfaces you want painted, like moldings, trims, walls, etc., all the paint colors you want used and the finishes as well.
- Observe your prospect’s behavior.
When you meet your prospective painter for the first time, check for behavioral cues. Do they deal with you professionally? Do they sound experienced? Do they show courtesy to you as a potential client? Do you sense that they’re always busy (good ones often are)? Are they prompt in returning your calls or giving estimates? Do they come on time when you have an appointment?
- Check with references.
Make sure you have a minimum of three references for each of your prospects, and do call them. When possible, give the homeowners a visit so you can actually check the contractor’s job and how it held up.
- Review the contract.
As soon as you’ve decided to hire a particular contractor, request for a written contract and check it thoroughly. You as a consumer have the right to ask for details or clarification on any part of the document which may be confusing or unclear to you. Finally, pay most attention to certain points such as which parts of the house are to be painted exactly and with which colors, what preparations and cleanups will be made, how plants, furniture, etc. will be protected, the duration of the project and the payment terms and mode. If you want to read more, click here to get started.
Commercial Painting Guide 