10 Questions You Must Ask Before Hiring a House Painter

Hiring a house painter might seem like a simple task—call a few, get some quotes, pick the cheapest, and wait for the transformation. But for many homeowners and smart business owners, this approach leads to frustration, unexpected costs, or worse—repainting within a year.

Not all house painters are created equal. Some use premium products, perform extensive surface prep, and provide warranties. Others cut corners, outsource labor, or leave you chasing callbacks. The difference often comes down to what questions you ask before signing the contract.

This guide walks you through ten essential questions to ask when hiring a house painter. We’ll also explain what the answers should look like—and what red flags to watch for.

Question 1 – Are You Licensed and Insured?

Why It Matters

A licensed and insured house painter isn’t just legitimate—they’re accountable. Licensing ensures they meet your state’s requirements. Insurance protects you from liability if someone is injured or property is damaged during the job.

What to Look For

• Valid state contractor’s license—verify it online if needed.

• General liability insurance (covers property damage).

• Workers’ compensation insurance (covers injured workers).

• Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) directly from the provider.

A true professional won’t hesitate to show this paperwork.

Question 2 – What Is Included in the Surface Preparation?

Why It Matters

Most paint failures are due to poor surface prep. A beautiful finish can peel, bubble, or crack within months if surfaces weren’t properly cleaned, patched, and primed.

What to Look For

• Detailed mention of pressure washing, scraping, sanding, caulking, and patching.

• Repairs for damaged wood, stucco, or rusted metal.

• Priming requirements by surface type.

For example:

• Wood siding: should be sanded and spot-primed with bonding primer.

• Stucco: should be patched with elastomeric fillers before coating.

Red Flag

Quotes that just say “basic prep” with no specifics.

Question 3 – What Paint Products Do You Use and Why?

Why It Matters

Not all paints are created equal. Using the wrong product can mean faded colors, early chipping, or mold growth.

What to Look For

• Specific brand and product line (e.g., Sherwin-Williams Duration vs. Emerald).

• Sheen (flat, eggshell, satin, gloss).

• Low-VOC or zero-VOC options for indoor or sensitive environments.

Ask for a Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for the exact product—this shows its coverage rate, drying time, and performance specs.

Question 4 – How Many Coats Are Included in the Quote?

Why It Matters

The number of coats directly impacts coverage, durability, and how well the color holds up.

What to Look For

• Two coats plus primer is the standard for most repaints.

• More may be needed when changing from dark to light colors or painting over patchy surfaces.

Confirm what kind of primer they use, especially for:

• Metal (DTM primer)

• New drywall (PVA primer)

• Chalky exteriors (bonding primer)

Question 5 – Who Will Actually Be Doing the Work?

Why It Matters

Some companies subcontract their painting jobs. This can lead to inconsistent quality, poor communication, or lack of accountability.

What to Look For

• In-house crews vs. outsourced labor.

• Experience levels of team members.

• Presence of a site supervisor or foreman.

• Background checks and OSHA safety compliance.

A professional house painter knows their team—and supervises them closely.

Question 6 – Do You Offer a Written Warranty?

Why It Matters

Without a warranty, you could be stuck with the cost of fixing peeling or fading paint just months after the job ends.

What to Look For

• Written warranty for labor (1–5 years is typical).

• Paint product warranty backed by the manufacturer.

• Terms that cover blistering, peeling, or adhesion failure.

This should be part of the contract, not just a verbal promise.

Question 7 – How Will You Protect My Property During the Job?

Why It Matters

Paint can damage landscaping, fixtures, or surfaces if not contained properly.

What to Look For

• Drop cloths for hardscapes and flooring.

• Masking tape and plastic sheeting for windows and trim.

• Containment for overspray and paint dust.

• Clear instructions for managing pets, vehicles, or property access.

Professional house painters leave your space better than they found it.

Question 8 – Can You Provide References or a Portfolio of Similar Work?

Why It Matters

Photos and references prove they’ve handled similar jobs—and done them well.

What to Look For

• Before-and-after photos of homes or buildings with similar surfaces.

• Testimonials or contact info for past clients.

• Projects involving the same type of paint or environmental conditions.

This is especially critical for jobs involving complex surfaces like stucco, metal, or previously painted brick.

Question 9 – What Is the Payment Schedule?

Why It Matters

A fair and reasonable payment schedule protects both you and the contractor. Large upfront payments with no inspection milestones are risky.

What to Look For

• Typical structure: 10–30% deposit, progress payments, and final payment after inspection.

• Avoid: 50% or more upfront, cash-only, or “full payment before job begins.”

Ask for receipts and make sure all payment terms are in writing.

Question 10 – How Will You Handle Weather Delays or Change Orders?

Why It Matters

Rain, temperature shifts, or unexpected substrate damage can affect timelines and budgets. You need a plan—not surprises.

What to Look For

• Written policy for weather delays and rescheduling.

• A change order process that includes written approval for any added cost.

• Clear communication if products need to be substituted due to availability.

Bonus Questions for Commercial Property Owners

Do You Have Experience Working Around Tenants or During Off-Hours?

Multi-unit housing, healthcare, and retail spaces often require quiet hours or staged work.

Can You Provide Specialty Coatings or VOC-Compliant Products?

Especially important for:

• Hospitals or schools (zero-VOC paint)

• Graffiti-prone areas (anti-graffiti coatings)

• Humid climates (mold-resistant formulas)

• Exteriors (elastomeric coatings for stucco)

Red Flags That Should Make You Walk Away

• No written contract or quote.

• No license or insurance provided.

• Generic “we use quality paint” with no brand or sheen listed.

• Unwilling to provide references or product specs.

• Price much lower than competitors without explanation.

Sample Comparison Table of Two Painting Proposals

Conclusion

Hiring a house painter isn’t just a home improvement decision—it’s a financial investment in your property’s longevity, value, and appearance.

Asking these 10 questions separates qualified, professional house painters from fly-by-night operators. Whether you’re refreshing a personal home, preparing a rental unit, or repainting an office, being informed makes all the difference.

Don’t settle for vague promises or bottom-dollar bids. Look for house painters who are transparent, product-specific, safety-conscious, and contractually committed to results.

When the paint dries, you’ll want a job that lasts—both visually and structurally.

Call to Action

Need help vetting house painters for your next home or property repaint?

We specialize in honest, detailed, product-specific estimates with clear prep scope, materials, and labor timelines. Contact us for a no-pressure consultation and line-item quote—so you know exactly what you’re getting.