When selecting a painting contractor for your home there a few points to consider before getting started and hiring the contractor.
1. Are they licensed, insured and a bonded contractor?
Contractors with proof of all three of these have previous experience painting and have the capacity to protect themselves from on the job accidents and protect your home if they make a mistake.
2. Are you a member of any trade organizations?
A great resource when finding a paint contractor is the PDCA (Painting and Decorating Contractors of America). Contractors who are members go the extra mile by following strict guidelines with their services.
3. Can you show me examples of your work?
Every reliable contractor will provide you with several references of previous work, such as pictures of the quality work they have done in the past. Also try learning about their work crews.
4. My house is old and it may have lead paint, do you work with lead?
If your house contains lead make sure your hire a contractor who has an EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) lead certified firm. By being certified they are obligated to protect yourhome and neighbors from the harmful effects of lead poisoning.
5. Do you give free estimates?
If the contractor tells you that an estimate costs money that is a definite no. Good contractors want your business and should be willing to work with you, in hopes of a good referral.
Remember, by asking these questions you will find a great contractor. Sometimes this means that the one you choose is the highest bid, but these contractors know what they are doing and will save you money in the long run.
Check out our Scioto Knowledge Center for these and other important home and safety tips.
Great article. A lot of residential customers in particular just need to know the right questions to ask and you have provided them. I would maybe take it a step further and check references, in particular because follow-up after the job is as important.
Keep up the great blogging; we are hoping to start one on our own site soon and are looking to sites like yours for inspiration.