Decide which rooms need to stay usable.
If you live in the home, explain which bedroom, doorway or workspace you need to access each day. Discuss whether work can be staged room by room and what that means for the schedule.
For move-in or move-out painting, share the key-access date and handover deadline. Avoid scheduling furniture delivery against an unconfirmed completion time.
Clear small belongings; discuss heavy items.
Remove pictures, fragile items and personal belongings from the agreed work area. Ask what to do with curtains, blinds and wall-mounted items instead of assuming everything is included.
Confirm who moves large furniture and appliances. Keep a clear route to the work area. Floors and remaining furnishings need suitable protection; the hallway photo in our portfolio shows a prepared work area.
Review the walls and your color choices.
Point out damage, stains and old repairs during the estimate. Report any active water problem before painting is planned. Preparation and primer should suit the actual surface and selected paint.
Look at your chosen color in the room’s own light before approving it. Confirm the color and finish for each surface in writing, especially where walls and trim differ.
Plan access and drying time.
For condos, check allowed work hours, service elevator booking, parking and required building paperwork. Tell the painter about pets and arrange for them to stay out of the work area.
Ventilation, drying and return-to-use instructions depend on the product and conditions. Follow the product guidance and the agreed work plan; dry to the touch does not necessarily mean ready for cleaning or normal wear. Ask before moving items back against freshly painted walls.
Before the work starts
- Confirm rooms, colors, finishes and included repairs.
- Clear personal items and agree on furniture handling.
- Arrange keys, building access and a safe place for pets.
- Confirm the work sequence and when rooms can be used again.
More on wall preparation: Sherwin-Williams.