4 Things to Look for When Hiring a Painter

by Kevin Smith Author

Need a Painter?

Have you finally had it with the peach colored living room? With the kids in the house, have you washed around the doors so often that the paint is gone? Trim around windows and doors takes a beating in any well used home. Maybe the exterior of home needs attention. The siding is possibly faded, chipping or peeling and needs painting. When searching for a home painting company near Gilbert, there are a few things you, the consumer, need to pay attention to.

Get Multiple Bids

Regardless of how smooth the sales pitch, always seek multiple estimates for the job you would like done. Make sure the bids are for the same services, as some contractors may offer more than others. If a contractor is offended that you are seeking other bids, then that contractor was not the right fit for your work. Never pay any money for an estimate. Estimates should always be free.

How Do They Present Themselves?

Did a dirty painter show up at your door smelling of smoke, or did a well groomed professional show up at your door ready to work for you? Look for enthusiasm and a willingness to offer information. Be on guard for fast talk and a pushy sales person who requires a signature or offers any deal that is about to expire. There is a difference between a painter and a company representative. A painter you want to hire can still show up in well maintained company vehicle, cleaned up and presentable.

Get References

Word of mouth is the best way to find a painter. Ask neighbors, friends and family who they hired and look at their work. If you chose a painter out of the phonebook or any other random posting, ask for examples of their work and references or reviews from former customers. If you are at the local paint store picking your colors, ask if they have ever heard of the painter you are thinking of hiring. Often, these folks will have inside information. The store might be the best place to start your search for painter.

The Details

While searching for, and speaking with any home painting company near Gilbert, pay attention to the little things. Watch out for defensiveness, or a person that is avoiding answering your questions. Did the estimator forget to bring a pen? Did they spend the appropriate amount of time, or did they rush the estimate? If it doesn't feel like a good fit, move on to the next applicant.