Choosing the right painting and finishing company for a home remodel affects the final look, durability, timeline, and overall value of your project. Here’s a concise checklist of what to evaluate and questions to ask so you can make an informed decision.
Credentials and insurance
Proper licensing: Confirm the company is licensed for painting and any other trades they perform in your state or locality.
Insurance: Require proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance to protect you from damages or injuries on site.
Warranties and guarantees: Ask what warranty they provide on labor and materials and get it in writing.
Experience and specialization
Relevant experience: Look for companies with proven experience in home remodels, not just new construction. Remodels often require more careful protection of existing surfaces and patching/repair skills.
Fine finish expertise: If you want high-end finishes (veneer plaster, knockdown, custom glazing, color-matching, fine wood staining), confirm they specialize in or have a portfolio of those finishes.
Sheetrock and prep skills: Finish quality starts with proper drywall repair, sanding, and priming—verify they do their own prep work and have examples.
Portfolio and references
Portfolio: Review photos of completed projects similar in style and scope to yours. Pay attention to trim work, corners, wall texture consistency, and color transitions.
References: Ask for and call recent clients. Ask about communication, adherence to schedule, cleanliness, and whether touch-ups were needed later.
Site visits: If possible, visit a current job site to observe organization, protection of the home, and workmanship.
Communication and project management
Clear estimate: Get a written, itemized estimate that lists scope, materials, surface preparation, number of coats, paint brands, and finish levels.
Timeline and schedule: Request a start date, estimated completion date, and how they handle delays. Ask how they coordinate with other trades if it’s a larger remodel.
Point of contact: Know who will be your single point of contact and how you’ll receive updates.
Materials and techniques
Paint brands and products: Inquire about the brands and finishes they use and why. Quality materials often reduce maintenance and improve appearance.
Prep and protection: Ensure they detail how they’ll protect floors, cabinets, fixtures, and landscaping and how they’ll address lead paint if your home is older.
Environmental considerations: Ask about low-VOC options and proper disposal practices if that matters to you.
Pricing and payment
Value vs. lowest bid: Lowest price can mean shortcuts; prioritize clear scope and quality. Compare bids on equal scopes and materials.
Payment schedule: Avoid large up-front payments. A reasonable deposit followed by progress payments tied to milestones is standard.
Change orders: Clarify how changes are handled and priced once work begins.
Quality control and cleanup
Final walk-through: Ensure a formal walk-through and punch list procedure before final payment.
Touch-up policy: Ask how they handle touch-ups after completion and whether there’s a warranty period.
Site cleanliness: Confirm daily cleanup practices and final cleaning expectations.
Safety and professionalism
Trained crews: Ask about crew training, background checks if needed, and supervision.
Respect for your home: Professional companies protect belongings, remove shoes or use boot covers, and are conscientious about noise and dust control.
Red flags to avoid
No written contract or vague scope
Uninsured or unlicensed contractors
High-pressure sales tactics or demands for full payment up front
Poor or no references and no portfolio
Unwillingness to provide warranties or follow-up service
Final decision tips
Compare at least three bids with the same scope and materials.
Trust but verify: check online reviews, references, and any local trade association memberships.
Prioritize clear communication and proven fine-finish experience if your remodel demands high-end results.
