Hiring professional interior painters is the best way to ensure a high-quality, long-lasting paint job. However, proper preparation on your end can help streamline the process, minimize disruptions, and achieve flawless results. This step-by-step interior painting prep checklist will help you get your home ready for painting day.
Table of Contents
Why Proper Preparation Matters
Step 1: Declutter & Move Furniture
Step 2: Confirm Responsibilities with Your Painting Company
Step 3: Finalize Paint Colors & Finishes
Step 4: Ensure Proper Ventilation & Accessibility
Step 5: Communicate with Your Painters
Step 6: Final Pre-Painting Walkthrough
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Bonus: Free Interior Painting Prep Checklist
Why Proper Preparation Matters
Failing to prepare for interior painting can lead to delays, extra costs, and subpar results. Proper prep ensures:
- A smoother, faster painting process
- Fewer risks of paint splatter on furniture and floors
- Better adhesion and longer-lasting results
- More efficient work from your painters
Let’s dive into what you need to do before the painters arrive.
Step 1: Declutter & Move Furniture
✔ Remove small items, fragile décor, and wall hangings – Take down artwork, mirrors, and shelves.
✔ Move furniture away from walls – If possible, relocate items to another room.
✔ Roll up rugs and remove floor coverings – Protect your carpets and floors from spills.
Pro Tip: Label removed items and store them in a designated area to easily return them post-painting.
Step 2: Confirm Responsibilities with Your Painting Company
Not all painting companies provide the same level of preparation services. Before your project begins, clarify with your painting contractor whether they will handle masking, floor protection, and wall preparation. If these tasks are not included, you may need to arrange for them separately.
✔ Confirm masking and protection details – Understand what areas will be covered and protected by the painters.
✔ Ask about wall preparation – Some painters handle patching and sanding, while others expect prepped surfaces.
✔ Clarify whether they move furniture – Some companies will assist with this, while others require items to be moved in advance.
✔ Verify cleanup procedures – Ensure you know what level of cleanup to expect once the project is complete.
✔ Check company credentials – Verify licensing, insurance, and references to ensure you are hiring a professional and reputable team.
Pro Tip: Always request a written contract detailing the services included to avoid unexpected costs.
Step 3: Finalize Paint Colors & Finishes
✔ Confirm color selection in advance – Avoid last-minute changes that can delay the project.
✔ Test paint samples on walls – Observe colors in different lighting conditions.
✔ Choose the right paint finish:
- Flat/matte – Hides imperfections, ideal for ceilings.
- Satin/eggshell – Great for living rooms and bedrooms.
- Semi-gloss/gloss – Durable and easy to clean, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
✔ Consider low-VOC paint options – Reduce indoor air pollution and ensure a healthier environment for your home.
Pro Tip: Take photos of tested paint samples at different times of the day to see how the color appears under various lighting conditions.
Step 4: Ensure Proper Ventilation & Accessibility
✔ Keep windows open – This helps with drying and reduces paint fumes.
✔ Ensure easy access to painting areas – Move large furniture and clear hallways.
✔ Secure pets and kids – Keep them away from the painting area for safety.
✔ Disable security alarms – If painters will be accessing different rooms.
✔ Discuss temperature control – Ideal painting conditions ensure the best finish and drying times.
Pro Tip: If painting a high-traffic area, consider scheduling the project in sections to keep some areas usable.
Step 5: Communicate with Your Interior Painters
✔ Discuss project timelines and expectations – Ensure you’re aligned with your painting crew.
✔ Clarify special requests – Mention any specific concerns, such as stains or problem areas.
✔ Confirm arrival times – Be available to let painters in and answer any last-minute questions.
✔ Ask about post-painting care – Understand how to maintain newly painted walls for long-lasting results.
Pro Tip: Exchange contact information with the crew lead in case of last-minute updates or emergencies.
Step 6: Final Pre-Painting Walkthrough
✔ Double-check that all valuables are covered or moved
✔ Confirm prep work responsibilities with the painters
✔ Approve final color choices with your painters
✔ Review project timeline and estimated completion date
✔ Inspect any repairs or patching done prior to painting
Pro Tip: Take “before” photos of your walls for reference and ensure any agreed-upon fixes are completed before painting starts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to prep a house for painting the interior?
Declutter rooms, move furniture, confirm prep responsibilities with your painters, and finalize paint colors.
What needs to be done before painting a house?
Clarify preparation expectations, ensure accessibility, and discuss ventilation needs with your painters.
What do you need to do before painters come?
Secure pets, clear pathways, remove decorations, and discuss project expectations.
What do I need to know before painting interior walls?
Understanding paint types, finishes, proper surface prep, and drying times.
Do professional painters wash walls before painting?
Some do, but it’s best to confirm this service with your contractor.
How long does it take to paint a 1500 sq ft house interior?
It typically takes 3-7 days, depending on prep work and drying times.
How much does a handyman charge to paint a room?
Handymen may charge $200 – $500 per room, depending on size and complexity.
Interior painting job – Final walk-through checklist?
Inspect for touch-ups, check color consistency, ensure clean edges, and confirm cleanup.
Download Your Free Interior Painting Prep Checklist [PDF]
Get a printable version of this checklist to keep track of your prep process!
Call us at 206.899.5154 or 📩 Fill out our online form to book your interior painting project!
