The "Professional House Painter"

by Justin B.
(Cape May, NJ)

We hired a friend of a friend who gave us his business card that said that he was a "Professional House Painter". He was the worst painter ever.

He started by painting our ceilings. He didn't use any drop cloths because he didn't own any. There were little specks of white ceiling paint covering our floors, furniture and rugs. He only painted one coat in all of the rooms and didn't use a work light because, again, he didn't own one. The paint did not cover the walls; you could still see the previous paint underneath.

He asked for money to purchase paint on several occasions - he said that he lost his debit card. At the end of the job, he provided me with a bunch of receipts from Lowe's. He charged me for every tool that he used, including paintbrushes and a steam machine to remove wallpaper. Apparently, he didn't even own a paintbrush. Also, some of the receipts were for painting items that were purchased before I even met him!

One day, he mentioned that he was dizzy and didn't feel well. He asked me to drive him to the ER or to "front" him $50 for urgent care. I took him to the ER and asked him not to come back because I was afraid that he was going to "fall" off the ladder and try to sue me.

I made the mistake of trusting a "friend of a friend." My friend had not used his painting services and was appalled when he found out about our experience.

Never trust what you read on a business card. Anyone can have a set of business cards printed saying that they are a "professional." Only use painting contractors that came recommended from trustworthy individuals who have firsthand knowledge of the contractor's work. Always work with painters and contractors who are fully bonded and insured. Ask the painter/contractor upfront what charges will be passed through to you. Be wary of contractors who can't pay for supplies upfront.

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