Hiring a Painter
Questions to Ask Before Accepting a Painting Estimate
Compare painting estimates by scope, preparation, exclusions, products, access, schedule, protection, cleanup, communication, and change handling.
What exactly is included?
Confirm rooms, elevations, surfaces, doors, closets, trim, ceilings, cabinet components, repairs, and number of colors. Ask what is specifically excluded so assumptions are visible.
How will surfaces be prepared?
Preparation should respond to actual condition. Discuss cleaning, scraping, sanding, caulking, patching, priming, and what happens if concealed damage appears.
Which products and finish levels are planned?
Ask about primer, finish product, sheen, color responsibilities, and whether substitutions require approval. Product choice should fit the substrate and use.
How will the property be protected and operated?
Clarify furniture, floors, landscaping, pets, access, ventilation, daily cleanup, waste, and occupied-space needs.
How are schedule and changes handled?
Understand start assumptions, weather dependencies, working hours, communication contacts, payment milestones, walkthrough, and written approval for added work. Avoid relying on verbal scope changes.