Choosing the right painter for a commercial business can be challenging. Regardless of the type and the size of the property all commercial projects have to be well planned and executed by skilled painters with excellent leadership and supervisors. For painters who tend to only do residential jobs, the logistics can be a little overwhelming. When you use a painter who specialises in commercial projects, however, you will be surprised by just how smoothly your project can run.
The important decision for you is to find a commercial painter who matches up with your requirements, timelines and budget. Here are five key things you need to consider.
1. Experience
Number one on your list should be identifying the commercial painting experience the companies you are considering have. Do they have proficiency in a similar type of property as yours? Some companies only deal with large warehouses while others may do a range of projects from small office blocks to very large multi-storey buildings. A good place to start is with the Master Builders Association. You can be assured their members are all registered and committed to the association’s code of ethics.
2. References
Most company websites provide customer testimonials and reviews, so check out their websites. Online references are great but you also may want to communicate directly with some of the clients of the commercial painter you are considering. Long-standing and well-respected painters will always be proud and willing to put you in touch with their previous clients.
3. Licensed and insured
Is the company you are considering licensed and insured? Without this you have no recourse if something goes wrong. Make sure you do your due diligence and check the registration details here.
4. Quotes and Contracts
A fixed-price contract is a must. Go online and check the industry standards in your state. There is an old saying ‘knowledge is power’. No one wants surprises that cost time and money they were not prepared for, so be extra careful, examine the quote carefully, and ensure it covers, at a minimum, the following points:
- The scope of works
- Agreed completion date
- Cost of materials and labour
- The contract price
- Brand and type of paint to be used (will it be zero VOC for the interior use?)
- How and when payment is to occur (deposit required)
- What happens if there are delays
- How to manage variations
- If necessary, how will the painters work around standard office hours
- Any other matters that could lead to misunderstandings and disputes.
- Will the painting be carried out in accordance with AS/NZS 2311:2009 or the paint manufacturers’ specifications and to good trade practices?
If you still don’t feel confident on signing off on the deal, get a second opinion from someone who has experience with these types of contracts.
5. Flexible work schedules
Disruption to staff in commercial establishments and offices need to be kept to a minimum. So it is understandable a painting contractor needs to have staff that will be flexible, especially when they are painting the interior of a building. You need to discuss the possibility of their staff working after office hours and weekends. At the same time, you need your project will be completed within the agreed time frame.
