4 Tips for Hiring an Interior Painting Contractor

While DIY is still a huge trend in home improvement, many still choose to hire a professional to ensure the job is done right the first time. 

Hiring an interior painting contractor is worth the investment, but it is exactly that – an investment. You want to be sure that you are working with someone who is trustworthy and will do an excellent job. 

But how do you weed through all the options?

Here are some tips for finding the best interior painting contractor for you.

Shop Around

First, you need to find out what is available to you. 

Do you have a friend or neighbor who has had painting done recently? Ask them who they used and whether they would recommend that contractor. If you can, check out the work they had done to see if it is up to your own standards.

Don’t forget to check review sites, such as Google, Houzz, and Facebook.  You’ll find many useful reviews from clients who have had a variety of jobs done. 

Another place you may not think to ask for recommendations is your local paint store. They probably have a working relationship with many of the local painting contractors and can give you a place to start your research.

Be sure to call for at least three estimates so that you can compare.

Specify the Work to be Done

During the consult, walk through and be clear about what areas are and are not being painted. Be clear about paint colors and finishes that you would like to be used. 

It’s also important to specify the time frame that you would like the job to be finished within, so that the contractor can decide whether that will fit into their schedule.

If there is any prep work you would like the contractor to take care of (holes filled, unevenness fixed) you should mention those as well. 

Be aware that not every contractor will do these things and, if they do, it may come at an additional cost.

Ask Questions

Be sure to ask questions! You want to be 100% clear on what to expect as far as work, time-frame, materials, and cost. 

You want to ask several questions, including:

• How long will the job take?
• What dates will work be started and finished?
• What is the cost?
• What services are included in the quote? What services are extra?
• What prep work do I (the homeowner) need to do? What prep work will the contractor do?
• Should tenants vacate the premises during the work?
• How will assets be protected during the painting process?
• What licensing and insurance do you have? Ask for proof!
• Is there a warranty on the work to be done? If so, for how long and what does it cover?
• Can you provide a list of references?

Be sure to contact the references provided to you! Word of mouth is the best form of recommendation.

Get It in Writing

Once you’ve made your decision, it’s time to draw up a painting contract.

A painting contract should include business information such as licensing and insurance as well as your contact information. 

It will include the scope of work including:

• Areas to be painted/not painted
• Any materials to be used
• Paint colors and finishes
• Prep work to be done
• Warranties offered

The contract will also include who is responsible for what parts of the job (contractor or homeowner). 

Lastly you will have a detailed cost estimate based on the work agreed on. 

It should be pretty close to your initial estimate, plus or minus any extra details while finalizing. 

Be aware that anything you ask to add after the fact may increase the price. Timeframe of the job should also be included in the contract.

Do not sign until you have read thoroughly and are satisfied that everything talked about has been included!

Enjoy the process and your newly painted space, knowing you made an informed decision.

Quality Interior Painting Contractors Serving Metro Detroit & Beyond

At Armor Tough Coatings, we pride ourselves on a job well done. We are not your ordinary painting contractor. Our thorough interior painting process ensures that your job is completed to your satisfaction. We take care of much of the prep work and minor repairs before painting, and complete a final walkthrough with you to make sure you are happy with the finished product. 

Your home is your sanctuary. Let us help you make it a great one. Schedule your estimate today!