Selecting a painting contractor
Know what you're actually paying for.
The lowest bid is rarely the lowest cost. Before you hire, ask every contractor these questions — and compare the answers.
| What to ask | Typical handyman | National franchise | Villa Portofino |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family owned and operated? | One person, here today | Corporate owned, local licensee | Yes — a family business since 1983 |
| Licensed, bonded & insured contractor? | Often not | Varies by crew | Yes — multi-county specialty license |
| Master Painter involved on every job? | No | Rarely | Master Painter-led, 40+ years experience |
| Every elevation inspected before the quote? | Drive-by estimate | Sometimes | Always — elevation analysis |
| Paint never watered down — delivered and labeled as such? | Unknown | Varies | Guaranteed |
| Written warranty on labor and materials? | No warranty | Very limited warranty | 6-year written warranty* |
| Hundreds of local homes to drive by? | No | Some | Yes, since 1983 |
| Prep sequence spelled out — wash, scrape, caulk, patch, prime? | Paint over it | Basic wash and go | Full sequence, in writing |
| Hidden rot or stucco damage handled by written change order? | Painted over | Billed as an add-on | Documented and priced before we proceed |
| HOA or ARC color approval package handled? | Your problem | Sometimes | We can assist and advise |
* Specifics of the warranty — covered surfaces, term and exclusions — are set out in your personalized written agreement.
Ask us the same questions
Put us to the test.
The estimate is free and every elevation is walked before we quote. Ask about anything in the table above — we will answer it in writing.