There are several factors in ensuring you get an accurate quote from painting contractors. Before you flip through the local directory or do an online search ask around to find out who your friends and family have used. Ask about their experiences and if they would feel comfortable referring them to you. Check out online reviews and visit a few websites to get a feel for a company.
Once you have whittled it down to three companies, decide which days would be best for appointments. Painters should not be scheduled to appear at the same time. You want an hour or so for a bigger project to go through everything to be included in the quote. Prior to them arriving, make a list of the areas to be covered and try not to deviate away from this. You want each contractor to be working off the same list so as not to add confusion to the quoting.
Here are a few questions to ask during the quote
Are you insured (you are free to ask them to email or fax their certificate)
Do they hire sub contractors or employees?
What is covered in the quote?
Do I get a choice on what paint is used?
Do you have referrals (if it is exterior ask if you can see them)?
Am I covered by a contract and how are changes dealt with?
Do you provide a workmanship warranty?
Once the quoting process is complete and you have them in hand compare them for any discrepancies. If something doesn't add up don't hesitate to call them up and clarify. If needs be get any changes in writing. Remember the price shouldn't be the deciding factor. Would you feel comfortable having them in your home? Did they turn up to the quote looking respectable? Were they flexible to your needs? All of these things should be taken into consideration before you make your final decision.
One of the most common problems we see would be a paint job gone bad a couple of years after it was completed. Most of these jobs were the lowest quote. Subpar products were used, improper preparation was performed or the painters simply didn't apply the paint under the right conditions.
So in short the best way to get an honest and accurate quote is to start off on the right foot. Have a list that you don't deviate away from. Ask any questions that come to mind and don't be afraid to keep asking questions if and when they arise throughout the rest of your painting project.
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