Tips on Hiring a Professional Paint Contractor

Some painting projects require more skill than a D-I-Y painter, such as the painting of a home or a larger scale commercial paint job. When you need a paint job done by a professional, you may want to hire a paint contractor.

Depending on their level of skill, these contractors can specialize in the painting of specific buildings and structures, certain painting styles, and even staining, wallpapering, and/or drywall repair. When you are hiring the contractor, here are some tips on what to look for, avoid, and check into prior to signing the contract with them.

Meet Your Paint Contractor in Person

When hiring a paint contractor, you will want to meet them in person before the project is agreed upon. First impressions can make the difference for you in which contractor you choose, so you will want to take this time to gauge their professionalism, respect, and knowledge about the specific project that you are needing completed. A reputable contractor will always put their best foot forward in meeting potential clients, so if they do not, then you can take them off your list. 

Look for Professional Credentials

In the state of Louisiana, contractors require a license upon the passing of a written examination given by the State Licensing Board for Contractors.

They must also go through an extensive review by this board with regards to their financial stability and skill level, so you will want to make sure that your chosen paint contractor has this licensing. Also, they are required to have general liability insurance, so be sure to request a copy of that insurance policy prior to the work beginning. 

State Your Specific Expectations

When you are communicating with your potential paint contractor, make sure that you communicate your needs specifically and in detail to the contractor. Once they know the exact project they are bidding on, they will be able to quote you appropriately and estimate the completion time with accuracy. Without specific details, you are risking the trajectory of the project to the judgement of someone else.

Check References and Past Work

The most important test of a contractor’s work is their references. Ask your potential contractor for a list of previously completed projects and make sure their work is up to the standards that you require for your project. Do not skip this step; you want to make sure their work can speak for itself.

Get Written Estimates

When you have narrowed your paint contactors down to a few, be sure to get any estimates in writing. A verbal estimate can be changed and debated, but a written estimate can be stuck to. Compare each written estimate with the others and decide which contractor has earned your business based on their credentials, quality of work, respectability, and ultimately, the price. 

Get Signed Written Contract with Details

Once you have chosen a painting contractor for your project, make sure the agreed upon contract is given to you in writing and signed by both parties. You want to make sure that you have written expectations with regards to the work being provided, the time frame, and the payment schedule for the work. If any of that information changes, likewise, get a change request in writing for your files.

Inquire About a Quality Guarantee

When the work contract is signed, inquire with your contractor about any quality guarantees that they provide, such as a money-back guarantee or work guarantee. In this manner, if the work is not up to par or if the work is damaged or fails after completion, you want to make sure that you have options for it to be corrected.

When you have a painting project that requires a little more professionalism that you can do yourself, consider hiring a contract painter to bring your vision to life. JMA Painters has developed a reputation for excellent work and communication. If you are looking for a paint contractor in Louisiana, contact JMA Painters.