Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Painting Contractor

Hiring the right painting contractor protects your investment. A few pointed questions during the estimate tell you a lot about how a crew will actually work on your property.

Ask about preparation specifically: Will they wash, scrape, sand, caulk, and prime—or just apply topcoat over a dirty surface? Preparation is where a lasting finish is won or lost.

Confirm insurance and any relevant certifications. For log homes, Sashco certification matters; for pre-1978 homes, lead-safe certification matters. Ask for proof rather than promises.

Finally, ask for a written estimate that documents the surfaces, prep steps, materials, and labor included. A clear scope lets you compare bids honestly and avoids surprises mid-project.