Guide

How to choose a painter in Ottawa

Jul 2, 2026 · Ottawa Home Services Directory · 5 min read

Prep is what separates a paint job that lasts from one that peels in two winters. Here is what to ask before you hire an Ottawa painter.

A good paint job is mostly preparation. The finish you see is the last ten percent; the sanding, patching, priming, and masking underneath it are what decide whether the work still looks right in five years.

Ask about prep, specifically

Any painter can roll a wall. Ask how they handle the parts you will not see: filling cracks, sanding glossy trim, spot-priming bare patches, and protecting floors and fixtures. A vague answer is a red flag.

Confirm insurance and a written quote

A reputable Ottawa painter carries liability insurance and gives you an itemized written quote before starting, not a number over the phone. The quote should name the products, the number of coats, and what surfaces are included.

Questions worth asking

  • How many coats, and which paint line and sheen?
  • Is prep (sanding, patching, priming) included in the price?
  • Who does the work, employees or subcontractors?
  • What is the workmanship warranty, and how long?

Get the answers in writing. The businesses listed here are a starting point; always confirm licensing and insurance directly with the company before you hire.

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