So, you’ve decided to check off some things from your to-do list and painting the interior or exterior of your house is one of them. When starting your search for a residential painting company, there are a few things to keep in mind before you speak with a contractor or get painting estimates.

I have spoken with many clients and have heard many horror stories over the years about how folks have been burned by would-be home painters here in the Cleveland area. You yourself may have had a terrible experience in the past. I can tell you that a substantial percentage of the work that we perform at Cleveland Artisans is correcting poorly done work from previous contractors or even homeowners themselves.

But don’t fret! There is a foolproof way to find a painting company who will do a good job at a fair price and all you need to do is follow this simple checklist:

1. Check References – Most companies provide references whether it be in their literature, on their website or verbally. You need to follow-up and speak with these people to see if they were truly happy with the work/company as a whole with regards to the work performed. If it’s an exterior job, ask for the address and drive by the site to have a look yourself.
2. Proof of Protection – Ask to see the company’s licensing, insurance, workers-compensation and Tax I.D. Usually a company will have copies of these important documents right in or along with their portfolio. So, when you sit down with the contractor, ask.
3. Online Reviews/Ratings – These days, there are online resources that provide contractor reviews and ratings for just about any local contracting service you need. Currently, web sites such as Angie’s List or Home Advisor are the two biggies.
4. Better Business Bureau – Even if a company is not an Accredited BBB member, they may still have ratings which can be accessed right through your local BBB website. Any complaint filed on the company over the past 3 years will show here. It will provide the type of complaint too: Advertising, Billing, Delivery, Guarantee/Warranty, Problems with Service.
5. Service / Labor Warranties – Reputable painting companies can extend the manufacturers warranties on materials. They will also guarantee the labor. But, it does not exist if it’s not in writing!
6. Price – Get three quotes and don’t go with the lowest price. As with most things, you get what you pay for.
7. Professional Associations/Memberships – An established and civic-minded local painting contractor will have roots in the local community.

If a residential painting company passes this checklist, you can feel confident that they will provide professional service at a fair price. Good luck and happy renovating!