8 Questions to Ask Painters & Drywall Before Hiring

Questions to Ask Painters & Drywall

Updated November 6, 2026

What Should You Ask Painting, Drywall and Plaster Contractors?

Ask for the license number, insurance certificates and a written contract, then ask who runs the job, who pulls permits and what the warranty covers. For this trade, also ask: Which paint and how many coats are included? Typical lead time is days to a few weeks.

Updated November 6, 2026 · Source: construction.broker planning guide (our own assumptions, not survey data); always compare written bids.

The Questions

What is your license number, and which state or city issued it?
Can you send a current certificate of liability insurance and proof of workers’ compensation?
Will the contract list the scope, materials, price, start and finish dates and payment schedule?
Who pulls the permits, and are they included in the price?
Who will run the job day to day, and will you use subcontractors?
What warranty do you give on labor, in writing?
Which paint and how many coats are included?
How will you prepare surfaces? For a pre-1978 home, are you lead-safe certified?

Good to Know

In homes built before 1978, federal rules require lead-safe certified renovators for most paint disturbance.
Preparation drives results; have it written into the quote.

Cost and Timing

As a planning figure, expect often about $2–$6 per square foot of painted surface. Typical lead time is days to a few weeks. These are our own assumptions, so compare written bids.

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