Before you decide to "do it yourself" or hire the least expensive painter you can find, here are some points to consider that suggest the lowest price may not be the best value.
Choose the Right Contractor for Your Project:
Once you have decided to contract with someone to do a particular painting and decorating project, how do you go about selecting the right person or firm? Do you make your selection on price, size of company, years in business, or other criteria?
Locating the names of reputable contractors:
There are many sources of information. Some of these sources would be friends, relatives, architects, decorators, yellow pages, trade associations, local "quality- oriented" paint supply stores, and newspaper advertisements. However, these sources can only give you limited general information. In order to make an educated decision, you need some specific information about any person or firm you are considering hiring.
What determines the cost of a job?:
Job cost is usually determined by the level of thoroughness, attention to detail, and quality desired. For example, it costs more to properly prepare a surface for painting than to give it the "quick once over." We would be happy to review, in detail, our calculations for your project so you can make a fair comparison with other bids.
Knowing Paints and How to Apply Them:
The choices today are more complicated than just oil or latex, and professional contractors will know what works, how to use it, and will have the right tools for the job.
Cleanup and Disposal:
Hiring a professional contractor means you don't have to worry about dealing with paint residues and other leftovers. Professionals will know how to handle hazardous wastes that may be part of the job.
Ask for references:
Yes, our references are available upon request. In addition to our customer references, we are careful to check all references of new hires. Waterside Painting is proud to be a drug-free business. Our reputation means everything to us, which is why we have a thorough new-hire screening process, including a careful background check.
Always ask if the contractor is licensed and insured:
While most contractors carry general liability insurance we go the extra mile by providing $2 million in general liability as well as an umbrella policy and WORKMAN'S COMPENSATION INSURANCE on every employee INCLUDING THE OWNER. If a contractor does not carry workman's comp insurance and is injured on your property you may be personally liable for injuries. ALWAYS ASK FOR A CURRENT COPY OF YOUR CONTRACTORS INSURANCE DOCUMENTS PRIOR TO STARTING WORK ON YOUR PROPERTY. Waterside Painting is a registered contractor in the State of South Carolina.