Having worked with many paint contractors, I picked up a tip or two along the way. I’d like to share my experiences with you to save you a little time and frustration.  Also the most important thing I’d like to stress is don’t necessarily go with the least expensive quote. Keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Come see what I mean.

LICENCES AND INSURANCE. “We don’t need it. We’re really careful.”
This is a big one. Please don’t EVER let a contractor in your home without knowing if they are licensed or insured. One small slip or accident and YOU’LL be responsible for it. This can lead to lengthy court battles and a whole lot of ugly. Research your professionals and don’t hire just because they are the cheapest quote – there’s a reason for that!

PAINT SWITCHING.  “This contractors paint is so much cheaper than Benjamin Moore. I’ll just put it in a big can and they’ll never know.” It happens! You pay for this and you get that  – and you don’t even know it! Make sure you look at the paint cans that your paint contractor has. Double check that the color matches the color you chose as they paint. There may be a slight variation until the paint dries but in an hour, you should have the right hue.

SHADY BACKGROUNDS. “We were only in jail for 6 months but that was just for stealing.” Painting is one of those careers that is very convenient for anyone to do. I personally knew a paint team that had some people with “shady backgrounds” and just didn’t feel comfortable having them in my clients home. I let them go because if they did something unprofessional in a clients home than it would make me look unprofessional as well and that’s a chance I’m not willing to take – ever.

I also had a neighbor who had left her charge cards on the dresser in her bedroom and they were stolen! This was by a company that hung blinds. Please keep in mind that a little common sense goes a long way here. I’m not saying it’s right but you would never hang a steak in front of a hungry dog right? Again, common sense really pays off. Also, stay home when your paint team is working. I know you may trust them and feel comfortable with them but don’t give them your key and free run of the house. They will just be painting for a few days, stay there with them incase they have questions or need help with somthing.
ACCIDENTS. “It was an accident. We’re not responsible for that spill.”
Oh yes you are! You break it you pay for it. You spill it you clean it. I worked with yet another paint team that happened to break a light bulb in a chandelier that was hanging in my dining room. Immediately they offered me $50 for the “accident.” Was the bulb worth $50? Of course not but it was their way of handling the situation professionally. 

There are so many paint contractors out there so how do you YOU know which one to choose? By word of mouth, BBB and Angie’s List. I know it’s scary to let anyone in your home for so many reasons but all you have to do it just use a little sense, make a few phone calls and just ask your neighbors and friends.