1. Surfaces
Name each room or elevation. Separate walls, ceilings, trim, doors, cabinet fronts and cabinet interiors. Mark exclusions.
Project planning / Val Painting LLC
Compare Painting Estimates on the Same Scope
A lower total can include less preparation, fewer surfaces or different materials. Use this checklist to compare what each painter proposes for your Vancouver or Southwest Washington project.
Start with one project description
Give each contractor the same photos, room or surface list and priorities. Ask for unclear items to be added to the written estimate before comparing prices. A blank item is a question to resolve, rather than proof that work is included.
Download the comparison worksheet to record up to three estimates. It contains no contact form and does not send your notes anywhere.
2. Preparation
Identify cleaning, scraping, sanding, filling, caulking and priming. Note damaged areas that need separate repair work.
3. Coatings
Record the proposed product, sheen and colors. Ask what coverage and coat requirements are included for the existing surface.
4. Protection
Confirm who moves furniture, protects floors and landscaping, and removes or masks hardware.
5. Access and timing
Record how the crew will access the work, which rooms remain usable, and how weather or drying time can change the schedule.
6. Cleanup and completion
Agree on cleanup, disposal, touch-ups and a final walkthrough. Ask what care instructions or leftover paint will be provided.
7. Price and changes
Record the total, payment schedule and exclusions. Ask how additional repairs or scope changes will be priced and approved.
8. Credentials and written terms
Check current registration and insurance for the state where the work takes place. Read any warranty terms and exclusions in the estimate.
Adjust the checklist for your project
- Interior painting: separate walls from ceilings, doors and trim; identify repairs and occupied rooms.
- Exterior painting: list each elevation, siding and trim; identify peeling areas, access restrictions and weather contingencies.
- Cabinet painting: count doors and drawers; specify boxes, backs, interiors, hardware and drying or curing instructions.
- Commercial painting: identify work zones, customer or tenant access, operating hours and the person who approves changes.
Use evidence as well as the estimate
Look at completed projects similar to yours, read customer feedback and check our Washington contractor record. Project photos show an example of the work; the written estimate defines what is included in your own job.
Bring your questions to Val Painting
Send your city, surfaces, photos and preferred timing. We review the preparation, access and finish requirements before confirming the scope and final price. You can use this worksheet with our estimate or any other estimate you receive.
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More advice for your painting project
Browse all painting guides for help with colors, preparation, materials and maintenance.