What to know before you take the plunge and employ a painter

After spending a lot of time in your house over the past year, you’ve probably noticed things you’d like to change about the interior. One of those things might be the colors of your walls. Whether your current paint job needs to be refreshed or you want to choose new colors for your home, you may want to hire a painter.

Painting is not a small job. Painting contractors not only paint the surfaces, but they also cover areas that won’t be painted, protecting your surfaces. It’s important you hire someone you trust to protect your home and your pocketbook. Hiring a painter is a great way to save time and money while enhancing your home.

Better Business Bureau offers these tips for hiring a painter:

Ask friends and family for recommendations. Also, check online reviews.

Get references from the business and call them. See pictures of the painters work if possible.

Clearly communicate your expectations, including your end goal and expected completion date.

Get three different estimates that include breakdown of labor, material costs, number of coats of primer and paint and description of the surface preparation. They should also include the paint you want, listing the manufacturer name along with the grade, color, gloss and base.

Ask if he or she is a member of a professional association, which shows a level of commitment and reliability.

Ask who will handle cleanup when the job is done and what happens if paint gets on the carpet or other items.

Be sure the painter is properly insured and licensed. This will help you feel secure about hiring the company.

Be wary if your home has lead paint. Lead paint may have been used in homes built before 1978. Painters may need to take extra measures that could affect pricing and project length.

Be wary of anyone who guesses how much your project will cost instead of measuring and walking through your home first.

Ask about extra costs, such as moving furniture or painting taller walls.

Get a contract, which includes what is and isn’t included.

Take a walk around the house and make a note of all cracked glass panes, torn screens and old paint spills before your contractor starts to paint. If you know where the existing damage is, there won’t be any argument at the end of the job when you point out new problems.

For more information about hiring a painter, visit BBB.org or call 937222-5825 or 800-776-5301. BBB can provide a list of BBB Accredited painters and Business Profiles on ones you may be considering.