What Should Be Included in Painting Contracts?

If you’re spending up to $6,000 or more to refresh your space with new paint, you want the job done right. That means your commercial or house painting contract needs to itemize everything from supplies to the timeline.

Read on to learn what should be included in painting contracts!

What Is the Project’s Scope?

In other words, how long will the project take, and over what period of time? Simple jobs, like painting interior rooms, may only take a few hours or a day.

But for exterior commercial painting services, the project could take weeks. Ask how weather delays will impact the timetable.

Of course, the contract should indicate the names and contact information for both parties. And it should stipulate that the terms of the contract are only for this one project.

Indicate Labor Costs

A house painting contract needs to include labor costs. Will two painters be handling the job? And if so, do they charge by the hour or use a flat fee?

Painters using a paint-primer combo may not need as much time as those who need to prep the wall before painting. Ask that a house painting contract include an estimate on how many hours the project will take.

Painting Contracts Should Include Supplies

The type of paint will impact the total costs of commercial painting services or residential ones. For example, oil-based paints tend to be pricier than latex paints. But they could be more appropriate on metal surfaces.

Ask your painting contractor to justify what paints they recommend.

Painters also will need rollers, brushes, tarps, and potentially scaffolding. The contract should itemize these supplies.

Identify Logistical Details

The contract should identify the painter as an independent contractor and state cancellation policies. Further, the contract should indicate that the painter will comply with permits and local codes. And it should state that the company has proper insurance coverage.

Also, map out any parameters regarding hours or use of the property. Are painters permitted inside your home if they’re doing an exterior paint job? And how late may they work?

Outline Unique Techniques and Requests

The contract should specify any techniques that depart from the norm. Or if you have special requests — like not painting original window frames — ensure that the language says so. 

For instance, interior painting services might offer fake finishes to mimic marble. Or you can ask that they use sponging techniques to create texture. A fresco technique adds texture, too, but in a chalkier way.

Map Out the Payment Structure

Must you pay for half of the total cost upfront? Make sure that the contract details the payment structure and deadlines. For instance, you want to make sure that your budget can afford monthly payments for residential painting services.

And get a receipt. You want confirmation that you’ve paid!

Sign a Detailed Painting Contract

When it comes to painting contracts, details matter. Review a contract to confirm that it outlines labor costs, materials, and techniques. And be sure you know when the payments are due.

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