It’s crucial that you select a painting company wisely considering that hiring one requires an often significant cash outlay and if the job is subpar you’ll either have to live with it for several years or pay more to have it redone. Although many painting service providers are legitimate, there are also companies that fly at night. To avoid being scammed, watch out for the following warning signs. Some of these signs, while not necessarily fraudulent in nature, still indicate potential problems, so be careful when you encounter them.

Doesn’t own a brick and mortar place of business

Some painting contractors have no formal training and run their business out of their trucks or residences. Although some of them may provide good quality work, there is no guarantee that they are here to stay. If you want the assurance of quality and longevity, use a contractor that has a permanent business address and has been in business for several years. A reputable contractor would have your phone number in the local phone book. However, keep in mind that some deceptive contractors buy local cell phone plans to appear to be a local business. A little investigation will expose that they do not have a physical address.

request door to door

Be skeptical of street painters who offer their services at a reduced rate by saying they were simply in the neighborhood for a previous job. Reliable painters rarely, if ever, sell their services door-to-door. Beware of roaming contractors driving vehicles without identification or out-of-state license plates.

It does not meet local requirements.

License, bond, and insurance requirements differ from location to location, so know what is required in your location. If they are expected, but the painting contractor doesn’t have them, go with a different company. But even if they’re not needed, it’s best to hire a contractor who is properly bonded and carries liability and workers’ compensation insurance.

Pressure you to make an immediate decision

Reputable painters provide a complete, written estimate after viewing your property. This quote must be valid for a certain period of time, which can be from several days to a week or so. If the contractor forces him to decide quickly, he chooses another contractor.

Offers that seem too good to be true

If the price quoted seems so affordable, the quality of the work is likely to be compromised. There is also the possibility that you will pay hidden fees after the project is finished.