This blog is not created to put a specific painter on blast. Rather, it is to help you avoid scammers or unqualified painters who will take your money and leave you with disappointing results or no work at all. At Halls Quality Painting, we like to see people get good value for their investment, and this applies whether they choose us or another qualified competitor. As you look for a reputable exterior painting company to work with, these are the important things to avoid.
Strange Payment Requirements
It is standard for a home painting company to request an upfront deposit. Normal deposit amounts may be small enough to cover supplies or up to 50% of the total cost of the project. Even most dishonest scammers or unqualified painters know this, so they may often request a 50% deposit as well. However, a red flag that you are working with a dishonest person is a cash-only deposit requirement. Reputable companies will accept a credit card, a check or another form of payment.
No Proof of Insurance
When a company has insurance, it gives you the peace of mind that you will not be the one picking up the tab if something goes wrong. Not all states require insurance, but painting companies that go without it are not putting customer needs as a high priority. All legitimate and reliable painting companies will have insurance and will be willing to show proof of it. Whenever a painter refuses to show it, keep looking for a different company.
Vague Estimate or Contract
An exterior painting contractor should provide a detailed estimate or contract to show scope of work. This includes what will be painted, the supplies used, the cost of labor and more. Contractors should offer to put any verbal terms into writing for customers. If a contractor refuses, this is a red flag. Also, beware of any written contracts that are not detailed.
Lack of Experience
Not every company or painter that has a short history is unreliable. Everyone must start somewhere, but it is natural for homeowners to be cautious of new companies or contractors. Sometimes, owners of new companies have years of personal experience. When this is the case, the owner’s knowledge is usually evident, and the company will be insured. If the company does not show any other red flags and has an experienced owner or team, it may still be a good choice. Beware of independent contractors with no verifiable experience, a lack of insurance and cash-only payment requirements.
No Reviews or References
A new company may not have many reviews yet. Beware of companies or contractors that have been in business for years and have poor reviews or no reviews. Some contractors or independent painters may not have a website. If this is the case, they should be able to provide verifiable references. It helps if they have worked for other individuals or businesses that you recognize and respect. Beware of anyone who cannot provide references.
Poor-Quality Paint
It always helps to ask house painters about the paint they use. If they reference an unknown brand, that can be a red flag. Reputable exterior painting contractors care about producing a high-quality result, and this is especially true if they back their work with a satisfaction guarantee. Remember that good painters always use professional, high-quality paint. They can explain why they choose their paint and are knowledgeable about its properties. Also, they will use the right type of paint for the substrate material. Avoid painters who want to use cheap products. Additionally, beware of painters who do not have a plan to properly prepare the exterior before painting it. The last thing you need is for your new paint to chip or peel prematurely.
Find Professional House Painters in Fernandina Beach FL
When customers are unhappy with the service they receive, they will surely tell the people they know and everyone online through reviews. This is why we strive to provide the highest quality of painting services and customer service. At Halls Quality Painting, we are committed to your complete satisfaction. We know that the investment of updating your home’s paint is important, and you do not want someone who will lazily slap on a new coat and take your money. Our company is licensed and insured, and our professional tradesmen finish jobs within the allotted time and on budget. They carefully prepare surfaces, use the right equipment and have a thorough understanding of paint properties, substrates and application methods. We also have years of proven experience and an excellent reputation for quality work. Let us help you turn your home renovation ideas into reality with our professional exterior painting services. Our team will be happy to consult with you on your scheduling needs, paint colors and more. Please contact us for a residential exterior painting quote in Fernandina Beach FL.