1. How long have you been up and running?

It is important to select a reputable company who has been in business for at least 5 years. The more years they have been serving customers, the better. You can also ask how many years of experience each painter has in the industry.

2. Do you use sub-contractors?

Many not-so-reputable companies will use sub-contractors (unskilled labourers) instead of professional painters. If an estimate seems too good too be true, it probably is. Most companies who offer highly skilled professionals have to charge more.

3. Is my paint job covered by warranty or insurance?

It is crucial to ensure that the painting company you hire is fully licensed and insured so that you are never subject to liability. Any reputable painting company will also offer a paint guarantee or warranty to protect you from paint failure.

4. Can you provide me with a couple references?

Protect yourself by requesting to see at least three positive references. Most professional painting companies will also have testimonials visible on their website. You can also check out online reviews to see what other customers have said about them.

5. Do you have a portfolio?

Just as you would ask to see references, you can ask to see a portfolio of their completed projects to get a sense of the quality of work they produce. Don’t settle for low quality photos. You’ll want to see details like clean lines as well as photos of the staff working to make sure they aren’t just stock photos.

6. Do you keep a clean work place?

Any company worth hiring will handle the cleanup – before, after and in-between. No one wants to come home to a huge mess, so cleanliness is important.

7. How much wall preparation is included in the estimate?

Wall prep is a very important aspect of getting a great paint job that lasts. You will want to make sure that this is also a priority for the company you are hiring. Most reputable companies will include any necessary repairs in the quote.

8. Do you prep the rooms before you paint?

It is important to find to before the day of the paint job if you have to have each room prepared. Do they bring their own drop cloths, etc? Will they help you move heavy items? The more they are willing to help you with, the more convenient the job will be for you.

9. What brands of paint do you use?

The quality of the product is just as important, if not more, than the quality of the work. Even a great painter cannot produce good work if the products are low quality. Most reputable companies use professional quality paints from brands like Benjamin Moore, Dulux, General Paint or Sherwin-Williams. High quality products may be slightly more expensive, but they add years to your paint job.

10. Can you help me pick out a colour palette?

A great company will assist homeowners when it comes to choosing which colours will work best for their tastes as well as each individual room. Same goes with choosing a finish. A professional company will have the experience necessary to help you as well as the industry connections to recommend another home improvement professional.