Home Remodeling Association of Connecticut

Choosing a Painting Contractor

Published by: Cynthia Freeney, Elizabeth Gormley
Published on: 2010-01-10 15:26:13

Choosing a Connecticut painting contractor can be overwhelming. You can find contractors searching the web, or the Yellow Pages, you can ask for referrals from friends, family and neighbors, but what can you do to make sure that the contractors you hired is actually able to deliver the kind of quality work you expect?

First,  you should chose always a credible contractor referral source, like the Home Remodeling Association of Connecticut. All our licensed painting contractors a abide by the HRAC Code of Ethics and will deliver professional, quality work.   

Our painting contractors offer simple steps to follow that will lead you to find the right person for the job.

Experience
How long has the company been in business? What are their credentials? Most reputable painting contractors have a website with an extensive portfolio.  They will be proud of their accomplishments.  You can always call a recent commercial client of a painting contractor and ask questions.  Was the job satisfactory?  Exemplary?  Was it accomplished in a timely and reasonable fashion?

License
Do not hire a company that operates without a contractor’s license.  The boards that issue licenses are industry regulators. They create policies that promote better and more reliable services from all contractors.  Authentic, reputable companies will be licensed, and also insured and bonded. Make sure your Connecticut painting contractor  is able to provide all the State required paperwork, including Workman's Compensation.

Price and Availability
It’s tempting to choose a company that is the least expensive or most readily available, but realize that it may fall short on quality. That’s not to say you shouldn’t recognize a bargain.  Don’t always assume the priciest is the best.  Do your homework.  Your budget is important, but so is getting optimal work.  Never go with a company that has not provided you with a written quote that lists all of the details.

Professional Appearance and Demeanor
Reputable companies usually have a physical business address, and listed land line telephone number. They will have marked vehicles in good conditions and fully equipped with their tools,  and sometimes uniforms for the crew. Beware of fly-by contractors, and contractors whose business card brings only a cell phone.

Taste
Show a potential contractor your home and inquire what he would recommend in the case of future jobs.  Get a feel for his style as well as his level of communication.  Bring all of your questions, and he’ll have the chance to shine and gain your respect.  Who knows?  He might give you some great new ideas.  The best workers exude credibility, professionalism and accountability. You’ll have a greater sense of well being in entrusting the aesthetic of your home to this company/individual.  Word-of-mouth is important in any industry.  A good painting contractor wants your business, and he wants your recommendation.  He will execute the task meticulously and timely, so hopefully you will tell all of your friends and neighbors.

There are a myriad of criteria from which to choose when deciding on a painting company—not unlike the palette of colors you’ll be scrupulously examining.  Keep in mind the steps, technical or otherwise, and you will soon have a brand new look in your home. 

With luck, you’ll also have a great new contractor for future projects and maintenance.




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