How to Start a Painting Business and Succeed

Are you interested in starting a painting business? If so, read on as this website contains a number of articles and resources that will be helpful to entrepreneurs looking to get into this potentially lucrative industry.

A painting business is easy to set up and startup costs are minimal compared to other industries.

Almost anyone can paint basic interiors and it doesn't take long to learn how to do building exteriors and other common painting jobs. However, the quality of the job makes all the difference when your business reputation is on the line. If you want to have your own painting company you must be able to carry out painting jobs neatly and professionally.

Painting is a multi billion dollar industry in the US. Painting can be divided into two obvious areas of specialization, exterior and interior painting. Each requires its own set of skills and equipment.

To find out why this business could be a perfect match for you check out our article Ten Reasons to Start a Painting Business

Painting Business Startup Requirements

You will have to choose a name for your business and make sure that it isn’t too similar to other local businesses. See our article on Painting Business Names for more details.

Next, you will have to file for a business license and a tax identification number with the appropriate authorities in your city or county. Requirements vary from state to state so be sure that you do your research at the local level and have all the documentation you need before you apply.

There are some states that require painting contractors to get a specific license proving that they have a certain level of competence. If you will be working on buildings that were built before 1978 then you should check out the Environmental Protection Agency's requirements for painting contractors dealing with lead based paint.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance is a must so shop around and compare rates and coverage. You need liability insurance in case something is damaged on a client’s property. You may also consider an insurance policy to cover your business assets, especially your vehicle.

Business Financing

After you get your license, tax ID number and insurance you should apply for a line of credit at your bank or credit union. The line of credit will allow you to purchase the basic equipment needed to complete your first few jobs and possibly hire an employee or two as your business grows. Starting a painting company will not be that expensive so ideally you will be able to fund your startup costs out of your personal savings.

Painting Equipment and Suppliers

Your relationship with your suppliers can be almost as important as the relationships with your clients. You may find it more beneficial to do business with a distributor or local home improvement store rather than a larger retailer. If price differences are minimal then you might as well benefit from having a good relationship with a smaller supplier rather than dealing with a large faceless store like Home Depot. Speak to local suppliers and find out how far they are willing to go to help you get started and understand the market.

Find a paint supplier, introduce yourself and establish a good business relationship with them. They will probably want payment up front when you buy your paint the first couple of times and after that they may extend you credit. As well as paint you will need drop cloths, rollers, brushes, painters tape, ladders and  possibly scaffolding among other items. Get the proper tools so that you can maximize productivity and get the job done right.

Good suppliers can also give you a sample book of paint colors, shades and tints to help you sell your services to a customer.

Advertising and Marketing

You need to advertise of course as it takes a lot of time to start getting referral business as your reputation slowly grows. You also need other marketing strategies for branding, promotion, estimating and sales.

Flyers are one method that is inexpensive and effective. Pass out flyers at home shows or tack them onto public notice boards. Invest in good quality business cards and don’t be stingy about handing them out to anyone you meet. Join your local Chamber of Commerce and other organizations that allow business people to network together.

Take photos of your previous work for when you meet with prospective clients. Before and after photos are a great way to prove the quality of your work. This helps people to visualize what their home or office will look like if they hire your business to do the job. Give written estimates and if a job is too big for you, be honest about it and refer the client to a company that can handle the workload. People are always impressed with a contractor who is honest and has the client’s best interests at heart. For more ideas see the following articles.

Painting Business Advertising
Painting Business Marketing Strategies
How to Price a Painting Job

Hiring Employees

You will at some point want to hire employees and this is where things can get a little dicey. Be sure to do a thorough background check on anyone that you consider for the job. Check out an applicants references and consider doing a check to confirm that an applicant doesn't have a criminal record. You not only have to ensure that an employee will be a good worker but you also have to know that you can trust them. For more information see our article on Hiring and Managing Painting Business Employees

Although it looks like there are a lot of steps involved with starting a painting business it doesn’t necessarily take that long and it’s not a difficult process. Is painting something that you enjoy doing? Do you enjoy meeting new people and feeling the satisfaction of a job well done? Are you interested in the unlimited income potential that having your own business can offer? Why not become a painting contractor?

For more information on how to start a painting business take a look at our complete list of Painting Business Articles.