10-Point Contractor Interview Checklist

Essential questions for homeowners in Sammamish, Redmond, and Woodinville.

1. Who exactly will be performing the labor?

Ask if they use subcontractors or temporary "day labor." At Elegant Painting®, we use only our own background-checked employees to ensure consistent quality and safety.

2. Is your $30,000 bond current for 2026?

Washington State recently increased bond requirements. Ensure your contractor is compliant with the new 2026 regulations to protect your property.

3. What is your dust-containment and air-scrubbing process?

Sanding creates fine particles. Ask if they use HEPA-filtered vacuum systems and air scrubbers to keep your family safe and your home clean.

Visual proof: A crisp, professional finish requires the right tools and a dedicated crew.

4. Are all workers covered by L&I (Workers' Comp)?

If a worker is injured on your property and the contractor hasn't paid their L&I premiums, you could be held liable. Always ask for a current certificate.

5. Which specific brand and line of paint will be used?

Don't settle for "contractor grade." Ask for premium lines like Sherwin-Williams Emerald or Benjamin Moore Scuff-X for longevity.

6. Is the estimate a fixed price or a "time and materials" range?

Vague estimates often lead to "surprise" costs. Insist on a fixed-price contract that includes all materials and labor.

7. How many coats of primer and paint are included?

For cabinets especially, the primer is the most important step. Ensure they are using at least one coat of high-adhesion primer and two topcoats.

8. Do you have a written warranty against peeling?

A verbal "we'll fix it" is not a warranty. Look for a written guarantee that covers both labor and materials.

9. Who is my on-site point of contact?

You should have direct access to a crew leader who is on-site every day, not just a salesperson who disappears after the deposit is paid.

10. Can you provide local references in the Eastside?

A reputable contractor should be able to provide recent references from Sammamish, Redmond, or Kirkland homeowners.

We Check All 10 Boxes

Elegant Painting® was built on transparency. We don't use subcontractors, we use the best materials, and we are fully compliant with all 2026 WA regulations.