Painting your home or business is one of the most visible investments you can make in the value of your property. Yet it can be difficult to know how to choose an expert painter, if your own experience is limited. Make certain that your investment provides the return you expect by making the best choice of painter for your next project.
When considering a painter, ask the following questions:
What are their qualifications and experience? We recommend choosing a member of the Master Painter’s Association for best results. Ask for references, details of their training, and any awards they’ve received.
Will they be able to provide expert technical and aesthetic advice for each stage of the project? Having to work with a number of different firms will lengthen the project and increase costs. Be certain that the firm you choose can handle all the elements of your project, including mold removal, wallpapering, special decorative finishes, and other special tasks you need completed.
How long have they been in business, and will they be around in the future? A long-term relationship allows you to have complete confidence in your painter. Be sure to choose a firm that has stood the test of time.
Do they have the systems, processes and expertise necessary to execute the project to your desired standard? There have been many changes in technology and procedures in this field. Be certain that your painter is up to date.
Are they a fully compliant operation? Are they OH&S compliant? Do they have work method statements? Are they committed to environmentally responsible practices?
When you can answer these questions with confidence, you can place your home or business in the firm’s hands with confidence.
About the Author:
Courtney and Wise, master house painters and decorators for Sydney’s North Shore and Northern Beaches since 1954.
3 Responses
I was big on the “give references” to a potential customer when I first started in business 20 years ago. However, I feel I am imposing on a past customer to use them as a reference for my company. Every company I am sure has a few satisfied customers and a few dissatisfied customers. Lets face it, Contractors are not going to use a dissatisfied customer for a references. So what credibility does that actually give a reference after all?
I feel that if my sales presentation isn?t enough to convince a potential customer that they should hire my company, than I am not interested in their business.
A licensed, bonded and insured company, doesn’t guarantee quality. However, it does guarantee a higher estimate.
I did work for a NJ Superior court judge that hired plenty of unlicensed, bonded and insured retired people to do work around his house.
Most homeowners do carry homeowners insurance which protects them against damages, (both property and bodily injuries).
I would like to give one bit of advice pertaining to “Choosing a Painting Contractor”. If I overlooked this please forgive me. I do feel it is essential, especially in today’s society, that the contractor be a licensed, bonded and insured company. If the state does not require then OK. It is very important that any customer can trust a reputable contractor.