Besides the price, a smart consumer would consider other variables in the hiring of a painting contractor. To avoid costly mistakes, frustrations and delays, use this simple checklist to ask the correct questions of the painting contractors you are considering.

	Lang's Painting, Inc.	Company B	Company C
Is the contractor licensed and insured?	Yes
Does the contractor carry workmen's compensation? (This limits your legal liability)	Yes
Does the contractor perform criminal background checks and drug-testing on employees?	Yes
Is the contractor a member of his trade/s organization/s, for e.g. Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, National Guild of Professional Paperhangers, Homebuilders of Washtenaw County	Yes to all three
Are the painters of the company employees or sub-contractors?	Employees
Was the estimate scheduled and the bid presented in a timely manner, reflecting the company's professionalism, organization and courtesy?	Yes
Does the contractor appear professional, knowledgeable, clean and neat?	Yes
Is the proposal clear with detailed pricing for each area of your home?	Yes
Does the contractor specify the type of paint used?	Yes
Does the contractor give you a written warranty?	Yes
Are references available on request?	Yes
Length of time the company has been in business in Ann Arbor	18 years
How large is the customer list?	Over 300 customers. Most of the customers become repeat cutomers also.
Does the company provide ongoing safety and painting training?	Yes