This is the most critical first step. A reputable contractor must carry two key types of insurance:

• General Liability Insurance: This protects your property from accidental damage caused by the painter or their crew.
• Workers' Compensation Insurance: This protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property. Without it, you could be held financially responsible for medical bills and lost wages.

Always ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and don't hesitate to verify it with the insurance provider. While Michigan does not have a state-level license for painters, being a registered business and carrying the proper insurance are non-negotiable signs of professionalism.

Never accept a verbal quote. A professional painting contractor will provide a detailed, written proposal that clearly outlines every aspect of the project. A vague estimate is a major red flag. The contract should include:

• Scope of Work: A precise description of all surfaces to be painted (walls, trim, ceilings, doors, etc.)
• Surface Preparation: Details on prep work, such as patching holes, sanding, caulking, and priming
• Materials Specified: The exact brand, type, and finish of paint and primer to be used
• Timeline: A clear start and estimated completion date
• Cost Breakdown: A transparent breakdown of labor and material costs, along with the payment schedule

Getting at least three detailed estimates from different contractors is a best practice to ensure you are receiving a fair price for comparable work.

A painter's past work is the best indicator of their future performance. A reputable contractor will be proud to share their portfolio and connect you with recent clients.

• Ask for Photos: Request to see before-and-after photos of projects similar to yours
• Call References: Speak with at least two or three past customers. Ask about their experience with the crew's punctuality, communication, cleanliness, and the overall quality of the finished product
• Read Online Reviews: Look at reviews on trusted third-party sites. A consistent pattern of positive feedback is a strong indicator of reliability

The quality of a paint job is determined long before the first finish coat is applied. A thorough preparation process is the foundation of a durable, beautiful result. Ask potential contractors to detail their prep process, which should include protecting furniture and floors, cleaning walls, and making necessary repairs. Equally important is the cleanup process. The contract should specify that the crew will clean the site daily and perform a final, thorough cleanup upon completion.

A professional painter should stand behind their work. Ask if they offer a warranty or guarantee against defects in workmanship, such as peeling, bubbling, or cracking. A typical warranty lasts for at least two years. The warranty terms should be in writing and clearly define what is covered and for how long. A contractor who is hesitant to guarantee their work should be avoided.