Use recommendations from friends or neighbors; get references and check them.

If possible, view finished projects. 

Check with the Better Business Bureau in your area for any complaints against the painter.

Second, solicit two or three bids for the work you need done. Do not blindly accept the lowest bid without asking why a bid is as low or as high as it is. A higher fee may be worth the extra services or better quality product provided. Make sure you understand precisely what the painter will do and what materials are necessary to complete your project successfully.

Get it in Writing
A professional  carefully prepares a comprehensive plan, estimating costs based on material, labor and experience .

You should detail exactly what you want from the painter. This can include protection of your household goods, office equipment and areas surrounding the job site as well as daily clean-up or clean-up upon completion of the project.

Be certain that you or your painter specify all the materials to be used. These details will be part of the contract.

Make sure both parties understand the financial terms which should be spelled out in the contract. The total price, payment schedule and a cancellation penalty (if there is one) should be clear to both parties.

Warranties and Guarantees
Any warranties should be in writing.

All changes to the original contract must be made in writing. Any amendments should be agreed upon by both parties before work is begun or continued.

If the contract upon which you and the installer agree is not complete in every meaningful area, do not sign it. Make sure you understand fully all terms and conditions. Affirm that you are getting exactly what you want, that you know the cost of each service, that you’re paying a fair price. If an item you want is not in the contract, you probably won’t receive it.

Know all the facts before you sign on the dotted line, and before you spend your money.

Finally, don’t hesitate to ask your professional painter to provide certification of insurance covering worker’s compensation, property damage and personal liability. Career painters should be insured for the work they do. This request should be easily met.