First, ask each contractor to price the same work.
List the walls, ceilings, trim, doors and exterior surfaces you want included. Describe visible repairs and access restrictions. Without matching boundaries, two prices can describe very different projects.
Then compare the written preparation.
Look for cleaning, scraping, sanding, repairs, caulking and primer where applicable. Ask who protects furniture or landscaping, who supervises the work and how cleanup and the final walkthrough are handled. Confirm the relevant insurance and local requirements directly before hiring.
Finally, compare the commitments.
Review exact products, sheen, coat or system requirements, payment milestones, exclusions and separate material and labor terms. A useful follow-up question is: ‘What would have to change for this price or schedule to change?’
Use these questions before approving a proposal.
- 01Is the preparation written and measurable?
- 02Are exact products, sheen and surfaces identified?
- 03Are repairs, exclusions and cleanup defined?
- 04Can you verify insurance, local requirements and customer experience?
- 05Does the warranty identify both coverage and exclusions?
Compare complete scopes line by line. A lower total may simply omit repairs, primer, protection or coat requirements.
Turn the guide into a project-specific answer.
A free consultation applies these questions to your surfaces, condition, access, priorities and timing. You receive a written scope that is easier to compare and approve.