5 Mistakes Homeowners Make When Hiring a Painter (and How to Avoid Them)
Introduction
A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home. It brightens up a living room, boosts curb appeal, and can even increase resale value. But achieving a flawless, long-lasting finish isn’t just about the colour you choose — it’s about hiring the right professional to do the job.
Unfortunately, many homeowners rush into the process of hiring a painter and pay the price later. Sloppy finishes, surprise costs, unreliable contractors, or even unsafe job sites are all too common when the wrong painter is hired.
To help you avoid frustration (and wasted money), we’ve outlined the five most common mistakes homeowners make when hiring a painter — and what you should do instead.
Mistake 1: Choosing the Cheapest Quote
When comparing quotes, it’s natural to look for the lowest number. After all, painting seems simple: just apply colour to a wall, right? The reality is that a cheap quote often means shortcuts.
Here’s what might be hiding behind that low number:
Watered-down paint or bargain-basement brands that don’t last.
Minimal prep work, which leads to peeling, cracking, or uneven coverage.
Uninsured labourers, which puts you at risk if someone gets hurt.
No warranty or follow-up, leaving you stuck when the paint fails prematurely.
Think of painting like any skilled trade: you’re paying for more than just labour. A good painter invests in training, proper tools, high-quality materials, and time to do the job right.
What to Do Instead:
Get at least 3 quotes and compare details, not just numbers.
Ask what prep work is included. (Are they sanding, caulking, patching?)
Request the exact brand and line of paint (Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, etc.) to ensure durability.
Pro Tip: The lowest quote often ends up being the most expensive if you need to repaint in just a year or two. Paying a bit more upfront usually saves money in the long run.
Mistake 2: Not Checking Reviews or References
A painter can tell you anything in person, but their track record tells the real story. Skipping this step can leave you with a contractor who disappears mid-project or leaves behind a mess.
Red Flags to Watch For:
No online presence or reviews.
Reviews that look fake (short, repetitive, or generic).
Hesitation to provide references.
What to Do Instead:
Check Google reviews, Facebook pages, or Houzz profiles for patterns of good service.
Ask for at least 2–3 local references and call them.
Look for before-and-after photos of their work to confirm quality.
A reputable painting company should proudly share customer feedback. At Painters Near Me, for example, we encourage clients to read our reviews and speak directly to past customers. Transparency builds trust.
Mistake 3: Skipping the Written Contract
Painting might not feel like a “big construction project,” but it’s still a professional service with money and your home on the line. Too many homeowners rely on a verbal agreement or a text message and regret it when things go sideways.
Without a written contract, you risk:
Misunderstandings about colours, finishes, or areas being painted.
Surprise charges (“Oh, trim wasn’t included, that’s extra.”).
Disputes over timelines or final payment.
What a Good Painting Contract Should Include:
Scope of work (what rooms, surfaces, and prep will be done).
Products and colours (brand, line, finish).
Number of coats included.
Start and finish dates.
Warranty details.
Payment terms (deposit, progress payments, final balance).
What to Do Instead:
Never hand over a deposit without a contract. A written agreement protects both you and the contractor.
Mistake 4: Ignoring Prep Work
Many homeowners think painting is just about applying colour. But professionals know: prep is 70% of the job. If a painter rushes this stage, the results won’t last.
Proper Prep Work Includes:
Patching holes and cracks in drywall.
Sanding rough surfaces for smooth finishes.
Caulking gaps in trim and baseboards.
Cleaning walls to remove dust, grease, or mildew.
Applying primer where needed.
Skipping prep leads to bubbling, peeling, or visible flaws under the paint. It might look fine for a month, but by the next season, you’ll see the difference.
What to Do Instead:
Ask your painter what prep steps are included in the estimate.
Be wary of contractors who promise “one coat, no prep.”
Remember: good painters often spend more time prepping than painting.
Mistake 5: Not Asking About Insurance & Licensing
This mistake can cost homeowners thousands of dollars if something goes wrong. Many “side-hustle painters” or fly-by-night contractors operate without proper insurance. If they get injured on your property, you could be held liable.
Types of Protection to Look For:
Liability Insurance: Covers accidental damage to your home (spilled paint, broken window, etc.).
Workers’ Compensation: Protects you from liability if a worker is injured on-site.
Business License: Shows legitimacy and compliance with local regulations.
What to Do Instead:
Ask for proof of insurance and licensing before signing a contract.
Make sure coverage is current (not expired).
If they hesitate, move on — it’s not worth the risk.
Additional Tips to Hire the Right Painter
Beyond avoiding these five big mistakes, here are a few more tips that will help you choose a contractor you can trust:
Ask About Warranties: A professional painter should guarantee their work for at least 1–2 years.
Get a Clear Timeline: Know how long the project will take and if weather delays are likely (especially for exteriors).
Clarify Cleanup: Confirm who is responsible for removing paint chips, tape, and equipment after the job.
Meet the Crew: If it’s not a one-person business, ask who will actually be on-site — employees or subcontractors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many quotes should I get before hiring a painter?
Three is usually a good number. It gives you a range of pricing and approaches without overwhelming you.
Q: Should I buy the paint myself?
Usually, no. Professional painters can get better pricing from suppliers and know which products perform best. If you want a specific brand or colour, request it in the contract.
Q: How much should I expect to pay?
In Ontario, interior painting typically ranges from $2.50–$4.50 per sq. ft. Exteriors vary widely based on materials and height. Always ask for a detailed breakdown.
Q: What happens if I’m not happy with the results?
A good contract should include a warranty or touch-up policy. Always walk through the project with your painter before final payment.
Conclusion
Hiring a painter doesn’t have to be stressful — but it does require careful decision-making. By avoiding the five biggest mistakes (choosing the cheapest quote, skipping reviews, ignoring contracts, overlooking prep work, and not checking insurance), you can save yourself from costly headaches.
A professional painter is more than just someone with a brush — they’re a partner in protecting your home’s value, appearance, and comfort.
👉 At Painters Near Me, we pride ourselves on transparent contracts, professional prep work, high-quality products, and fully insured crews. If you’re ready to transform your home with confidence, contact us today for a free consultation.