San Diego Union-Tribune (Sunday)
1. What kind of insurance do you have? 7 QUESTIONS TO ASK A PAINTING CONTRACTOR
There’s lots more to discuss besides what colors you want
Who will you hire to paint your home? You may have multiple contractors to choose from, which makes the decision harder. To find the most qualified, reliable pro, ask the following questions:
If the painting contractor doesn’t have workman’s compensation and liability insurance, the homeowner will be held responsible if someone is injured on the job. But don’t just take his word for it — ask to see the paperwork. “We provide a copy of it in all our bid packets,” said Jason Paris, owner of Paris Painting in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, and chair of the Painting Contractors Association, a nonprofit dedicated to the success of painting contractors through ethics, education and excellence. “Most professionals will provide it, too. But I’ve heard of some companies trying to pass
off their auto insurance as workman’s comp!”
2. How long have you been in business?
If a company has been in business for at least five years, it shows they’ve put roots down and are part of the community. Check their website to get a sense of their history and the kind of work they do. If there’s no website, ask to see photos of recent jobs.
3. Do you do a background check on your employees?
Since most people don’t empty their homes before the painters arrive, you must feel comfortable exposing your property to strangers. “Make sure the contractor is fully vetting whoever they’re sending out,” Paris said. If the contractor has done a background check on each employee, you can rest easy — or easier — that your house will be safe.
4. Who will be my project manager?
Depending on the size of the company, the person doing the estimate may not be the same one who oversees and manages the workers and the site. “Asking about a property manager gives you insight into how a company runs,” Paris said. “If the contractor can’t tell you who the property manager is, that’s