5 Questions to Ask Interior Painting Pros

Big or small, your project is a significant investment. That’s why we recommend interviewing at least three qualified professionals before making a hiring decision. Ask the following questions to determine whether a pro is the right fit for your project.

1. What’s included in your estimate?

Having your pro explain your estimate will help you understand each part of your job and ensure your contractor isn’t skipping any important steps like prep. Avoid working with pros who aren’t willing to explain their estimate or who don’t include things like prep, cleanup or multiple coats.

2. Are you insured?

Insurance offers protection in the event of an accident. Never hire a pro who is uninsured or refuses to show proof of coverage. This can leave you responsible for any injuries that may occur.

3. Do you prep?

Prepping is a crucial part of any painting job. Never hire a painting contractor who isn’t able to provide clear preparation details. Skipping this step will result in chipping, bubbling and peeling paint — all of which will require extensive re-painting.

4. How will you protect my home’s interior?

Interior painting projects can be messy. Hire a pro with a plan to keep other parts of your home safe and free of stains. Overlooking protection can result in ruined flooring and furniture.

5. What kind of paint do you use?

Most reputable pros will use a name-brand paint like Behr, Benjamin Moore, MAB or Sherwin-Williams. Working with a contractor who uses cut-rate paint can result in premature bubbling, dulling and chipping.

Questions to Ask All Pros

There are certain questions that you should ask your contractor no matter the type of project:

How Long Have You Been in Business?
Experienced pros will keep your project on track and provide an ideal finished product.

How Will You Ensure My Project Stays Within Budget?
It’s important that your pro has a strategy for keeping your project from going over budget.

Are You Licensed?
Licensing ensures pros have the skills and knowledge to carry out the job.

Will You Sign a Contract?
A contract will define the scope of your job and outline details like completion dates, materials and pricing.

What’s Your Timeline for Completion?
Pinpointing your job’s beginning and ending dates will help you plan around your remodel.

How Do You Prefer to Communicate?
Clear communication will help you stay up to date with your remodel.

Do You Have References?
References will provide insight into your pro’s working habits, customer relations and quality of work.

Do You Have Examples of Past Work?
Examples of similar past work will prove your pro has the experience necessary for a successful project.