Choosing the right painter and decorator for your project can be the difference between a job that transforms your space and one that causes endless frustration. It doesn’t matter whether you need industrial vs commercial painting, or interior vs exterior painting. Asking the right questions upfront saves time, money, and disappointment later.
At Halls Decorators, we’ve spent decades in the painting and decorating industry. During this time, we’ve seen what happens when clients don’t inquire enough before hiring a professional painter. The wrong choice often leads to poor workmanship, unexpected costs, and projects that drag on far longer than expected.
These are the five essential questions we recommend every client should ask before signing any painting contract.
1. What Experience and Qualifications Do You Have?
Experience plays a big role in painting and decorating. Skilled painters build their expertise over years of working with different surfaces, paint types, and tricky situations. When hiring a painter, ask about their background. Find out how long they’ve been in business and the type of projects they handle most often. Some specialise in exterior work, others in interiors, and some focus on areas like wallpapering or ceiling painting.
It’s also worth checking their training and qualifications. Many professional painters complete apprenticeships or earn certifications that show their dedication to quality. The best painters keep up with new products and application techniques through ongoing training. Asking about these details will give you confidence that you’re choosing someone who takes their craft seriously.
Key Questions About Experience:
- How many years have you been painting professionally?
- Do you specialise in any particular type of painting job?
- What training or certifications do you hold?
- Have you worked on projects similar to mine before?
2. Can You Provide References and Show Me Previous Work?
A reliable painter should be able to share references without hesitation. Speaking to past customers gives you an honest picture of their workmanship. Ask clear questions such as whether the painter arrived on time, finished within the agreed schedule, and dealt with any issues professionally. Most importantly, would that client hire them again?
You should also look at examples of their past projects. Many painters keep photos that showcase their skills. However, don’t stop at the references they provide – check online reviews too. Independent feedback, positive and negative, often reveals consistent patterns about the quality of their work.
What to Look For:
- Recent references from similar projects
- Clear photos showing finished work quality
- Positive reviews mentioning reliability and craftsmanship
- Evidence of attention to detail in their portfolio
3. What Does Your Quote Include and How Much Does It Cost?
A clear quote helps you avoid unexpected costs. It should list everything included in the job, so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Check whether it covers prep work, as this step is crucial for a long-lasting finish. Preparation can involve cleaning surfaces, filling cracks, sanding, and priming – and often takes longer than the painting itself.
You should also ask about the paint type they plan to use and whether you can choose the paint brand. Some painters cut costs with cheaper products, but this usually means weaker coverage and finishes that don’t last. Finally, find out how they handle extra work if hidden problems crop up. A professional painter will explain the process and be upfront about additional painting costs.
Cost Considerations to Discuss:
- Detailed breakdown of labour and material costs
- What preparation work is included
- Whether paint and materials are included in the price
- How they handle unexpected additional work
- Payment terms and schedule
4. How Do You Handle Preparation Work and Material Selection?
As we’ve mentioned, good prep is the key to a lasting paint job. If a painter cuts corners, you’ll soon see problems like peeling or cracking. Ask your painter what preparation they’ll carry out for your project. The steps will vary depending on the surface and the paint type. For example, exterior work usually needs more thorough prep, especially if there’s weather damage.
It’s also important to discuss materials. Different surfaces require different paints, and a professional should explain why they recommend certain products. Some painters even give you options at different price points, so you can weigh up cost against durability. Understanding these choices helps you make a decision that balances budget with long-term results.
Preparation and Materials Questions:
- What specific preparation work will you do?
- How do you protect furniture and flooring during interior work?
- What type of paint do you recommend and why?
- Do you offer different quality options for materials?
- How do you handle surface repairs if needed?
5. What Insurance and Guarantees Do You Offer?
Professional painters should carry proper insurance. Public liability and employer’s liability cover protect you if there’s an accident or damage to your property during the job. Don’t just take their word for it – ask to see up-to-date certificates.
It’s also important to ask about guarantees. Many painters back up their work with a warranty that covers defects in workmanship, often lasting one to several years. Make sure you understand exactly what’s included. Guarantees usually cover problems like peeling or cracking caused by poor application, but they won’t apply to issues from structural movement or extreme weather. Clear terms give you peace of mind before the work begins.
Insurance and Guarantee Essentials:
- Current public liability insurance (minimum £1 million coverage)
- Employer’s liability insurance if they have staff
- Written guarantee explaining what’s covered
- Clear timeline for the guarantee period
- Contact information for reporting any issues
Making Your Final Decision
Hiring a painter isn’t a mission to get the lowest price. A cheap quote often hides extra costs or compromises that leave you paying more in the long run. Instead, focus on painters who show genuine expertise, communicate clearly, and take pride in delivering quality results. They should answer your questions openly and provide the paperwork you need to feel confident in your decision.
Take time to check their credentials, review references, and understand exactly what’s included in the quote. Putting in this effort upfront saves you from stress and disappointment later. At Halls Decorators, we know a painting project is a real investment. That’s why we use quality materials, prompt communication, and careful attention to detail on every job.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Choose Halls Decorators for expert decorating and painting services that transform your space with lasting results. Get in touch with our friendly team today to talk through your ideas and next steps.