Licensed & Insured in New London

Common questions about licensed & insured

What does it cost to hire a licensed and insured painter in New London?

You'll typically pay more than an uninsured handyman crew, since the premium covers the contractor's liability and workers' comp costs. Exact pricing depends on square footage, surface prep, and whether it's interior or exterior work, but expect quotes to vary by a few hundred to over a thousand dollars between bids for the same job. Always get at least two or three itemized estimates before deciding.

How do I verify a painter's insurance is real and current?

Ask the contractor to have their insurance agent email you a certificate of insurance directly, or call the insurer listed on the certificate to confirm the policy is active. A photo of an old certificate or a verbal promise isn't proof. Also confirm the coverage dates haven't lapsed, since some contractors let policies expire between jobs.

How often does exterior or interior paint need to be redone in New London?

Exterior paint in this coastal climate, with humidity and salt air, generally needs repainting every 5 to 8 years depending on the siding material and sun exposure. Interior paint in normal living spaces can last 7 to 10 years, though kitchens, bathrooms, and kids' rooms often need touch-ups sooner.

What should I expect during a professional paint job?

A legitimate crew will start with surface prep, scraping, sanding, patching, and priming, before any topcoat goes on. That prep work is what actually determines how long the paint lasts, so a quote that skips straight to "two coats" with no prep detail is a red flag. Expect drop cloths, masked trim and fixtures, and a walkthrough at the end to check for missed spots.

How can I judge the quality of a painter's work before hiring?

Ask to see photos of past jobs similar to yours, request references you can actually call, and check how they answer questions about prep work and paint brand or grade. Insurance and licensing tell you the company is legitimate, but reviews and past project quality tell you whether the finished work will hold up.