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5 Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Painter

Hiring the wrong painter is expensive and stressful. This short, no-nonsense guide gives you the five questions that instantly tell a true professional from a risky one — so you can hire with confidence. Written by Drumcondra Decorators, 25+ years on the tools in north Dublin.

• 1
  Are they fully insured — and will they prove it?

  A real pro carries public liability cover and is happy to show it. (We are fully insured.)

• 2
  Is the quote fixed and in writing, with prep included?

  Vague verbal numbers balloon. Insist on a written, itemised price that spells out preparation, not just paint.

• 3
  What prep will they actually do?

  The finish lives or dies on prep — filling, sanding, caulking, priming. Ask exactly what's included before the brush comes out.

• 4
  Will they protect your home and clean up properly?

  Good painters mask floors and furniture, contain the dust, and leave each room tidy at the end of the day - so ask how they will look after your home while they work.

• 5
  Can they show recent local work and real reviews?

  Ask for before/after photos of nearby jobs and genuine Google reviews — not stock images or '5 stars' with no detail.