(1) Some painters request a large upfront payment to cover initial costs. There is no need to provide upfront money on jobs that will take less than a week to complete. This type of request or practice may indicate a lack of available credit from suppliers. Never pay more than 10% of the total contract as a down payment.
(2) Use a company that has a good reputation. Check to see how many years they have been in business, if they perform free estimates, and have competitive pricing. Low pricing that seems too good to be true, probably is.
(3) Make sure the contractor has a valid C-33 license from the California State License Board. Ask the contractor for their license number and verify with the CSLB.
(4) Insist that the contractor use only top of the line materials and, top quality caulking. You may want to verify the quality of materials with the paint manufacturer.
(5) Make sure the proper ‘prep work’ is done to surfaces to be painted. Good ‘prep work’ will result in a longer lasting paint job.
(6) Watch out for estimates stating ‘number of coats as needed.’ You may pay too much, or not get what you paid for.
(7) Make sure that all wood repairs are done with rotresistant materials, such as Marley, Azek, etc.
(8) Make sure you have a written contract and don’t sign it until you fully understand the specifications and terms, i.e. type and quality of coating (brand, grade, and sheen), number of coats, detailed description of preparation, job schedule, and payment terms.
(9) Make sure if you are changing the exterior colors of your home, that you have the second coat price, prior to starting the job.
(10) Always verify Liability insurance before contracting with a Painting company whose workers will be working at dangerous heights and positions on your home.
(11) Do not help contractors or their workers and do not lend them your tools. If a worker is hurt while you are assisting (e.g., holding a ladder) or is hurt using one of your tools, you may be liable via a ‘tort claim’ by the worker or contractor.