Verify the non-negotiables first
Before anything else, confirm the painter is properly licensed where your state or city requires it, carries general liability insurance, and (if they have employees) workers' compensation. Insurance protects you if someone is injured or your property is damaged. Ask for certificates — a legitimate pro provides them without hesitation.
This is the exact bar painters must clear to join the FindThePainter network, so matched painters arrive pre-verified — but you should know how to check on your own too.
- Active license (where required) — verify the number with your state board.
- General liability insurance — request a current certificate.
- Workers' compensation if they have a crew.
- A real business address, not just a cell number.
Ask these questions
- Who will actually be on site — employees or subcontractors?
- How do you prep surfaces, and what's included vs. extra?
- How many coats, and what specific products will you use?
- What's your written warranty on workmanship?
- Can you share references from jobs 1–2 years old? (Older references reveal durability.)
Pro tip: References from older jobs tell you more than fresh ones — anyone's work looks good the week it's finished.
How to read an estimate
A trustworthy estimate is itemized: surfaces included, prep steps, number of coats, products by name, who's doing the work, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty. A one-line price with no detail is a red flag — it leaves everything open to interpretation and 'change orders.'
Get at least three quotes. The lowest is rarely the best value; look at what each includes. A higher bid with thorough prep often costs less over ten years than a cheap one you redo in two.
Red flags to walk away from
- Large upfront deposits (over ~30%) or cash-only demands.
- No written contract or vague scope.
- High-pressure 'today only' pricing.
- No proof of insurance or a license they 'can get later.'
- No references, or only reviews they can't substantiate.
Frequently asked
Often 10–30% to schedule and cover materials, with the balance on completion. Be wary of anyone demanding most of the cost upfront.
No. Compare what's included. A low bid that skips prep, coats, or insurance usually costs more in redo work.
We confirm background checks, licensing, and insurance, and review work history before a painter can be matched with homeowners. See our verification standard page for the full checklist.