• Personally meet each contractor. Come prepared with questions. Most importantly, ask about the materials they plan to use. Who will specify the paint - you or the contractor? If the contractor selects the paint, does he or she recommend top quality paint? Top quality acrylic latex exterior paint can last up to 10 years or more, compared to only three or four years for ordinary paint. Better paint may cost more initially, but it will save you money in the long run because you will not need to have your house painted as frequently.


• Ask for - and check -- references. A quality contractor should be able to provide you with a few names of previous customers. These customers are an excellent source of information. Ask if they were pleased with the work, and how the paint job is performing. You may even want to take a look at their homes to see the results for yourself.


• Get estimates. Shop around for the best deal. Request bids from at least three contractors and let them know that others are bidding on the work. Ask for a breakdown showing the cost of materials and labor. To make a fair comparison, make sure that the contractors submit bids based on the same materials and same quality of workmanship, such as the type of surface preparation they will do and the number of coats of primer and paint they will apply. Ask for how each type surface (exterior wood trim, and stucco, for example) will be prepared, and if a primer will be used, and what type and brand of finish coat will be used for each type of surface.


• Check credentials. Before making your choice, call the Better Business Bureau to make sure the contractor is reputable. You might also check to see if the contractor is a member of the local painting contractors or business associations, which is some indication of reliability.


• Verify insurance coverage. When you have selected a contractor, ask to see a certification of insurance. Be wary of hiring a painter who does not carry insurance coverage. You could be held responsible if a painter is injured while working on your property.


• Ask for a guarantee. Reliable contractors will back up their work. At the minimum, a quality contractor will certify that the paint will not peel, chip, blister or chalk excessively for some period of time. Have the contractor agree that if any of these conditions occur, the problems will be corrected at no cost to you.


• Get it in writing. Insist that you and your contractor both sign a written contract that spells out important details. It should include specifics on surface preparation, how shrubs and other plantings near the house will be protected, the exact paints to be applied, and payment terms.

To learn more about quality paints and the proper steps to a good paint job, visit The Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute's web site at www.paintquality.com..