Giving your home a much-needed facelift may sound like a pipe dream especially if you are living on a tight budget. Instead of banishing this idea entirely, start by making small incremental changes.  Repainting is an inexpensive way of adding value and transforming your home. In case you are listing, it will make your home more appealing to potential buyers. However, you will need to hire a seasoned professional to guide you through the process for the best results. The following are things you must consider before hiring residential painting services:

1.    Insurance and licenses

Residential painting services come with a certain level of risk.  Therefore, a paint contractor must have a workmen compensation plan and business liability insurance. The former protects the crew in case of accidents while the latter protects your residence from damage initiated by the contractor. The contractor must also be licensed to trade, and you can verify this with the relevant authorities.   

2.    Credibility

Request for at least three references and do background checks. Focus on work ethic, performance and overall attitude of the staff. If you need to, ask to see some of the completed projects so you can evaluate in person. When in doubt, let go and find another candidate.

3.    The Crew

Most painting contractors hire subcontractors on a routine basis rather than maintaining their own employees. While using subcontractors keeps operational costs low, you may end up with substandard painters who do a shoddy job. Also, the contractor may not be well acquainted with these hires and therefore cannot vouch for their behaviour. This arrangement increases the risk of theft within your property.

4.    Materials

The quality of paint used is a vital determinant of the overall outcome of the paint job. A great blend of ingredients like binders and resins does not come cheap, but it guarantees better and more durable paintwork. Contractors need to have essential components and other materials to deliver a great job.

5.    Project cost

Transparency between you and the contractor is fundamental to getting costing right. Request for an itemised quotation with the price per items and double check this with local stores. You also need a written contract indicating project scope, expected results, timelines, warranties, and a return policy.

Evaluate the above factors carefully and do not skimp on questions. Take your time and gather information. If this is your first experience, hang around your residence and tactfully give feedback. This way, you will have control over the process and there will be no bad surprises.

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