Interior Painting Prep Checklist: 28 Things to Do Before You Start

Move all furniture to the middle and cover with plastic sheeting. This keeps pieces dust-free and gives painters unobstructed wall access.

Use canvas drop cloths (more professional than plastic) to protect hardwood, tile, or carpet. Secure edges with tape to prevent tripping hazards.

Turn off power at the breaker before removing electrical plates. Leave fixtures in place if the painter prefers to work around them.

Use painter's tape (blue, not masking tape) for clean lines. Apply firmly and remove within 24 hours of painting completion.

Seal doorways with plastic sheeting if painting multiple adjacent rooms. Open a window slightly in the paint room only for ventilation.

Paint dust settles everywhere. Either empty closets or cover shelves with plastic to protect stored items.

Arrange for kids or pets to be elsewhere during application and drying. Paint fumes are strongest during the first 24 hours.

Walk through with a good light source. Mark any imperfections with a pencil. This assessment determines prep time and material costs.

Use lightweight spackling for holes. Sand smooth after drying. Let the painter handle larger cracks or structural damage.

Use 120-150 grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge. Focus on problem areas. Don't over-sand; you're just breaking the surface.

Kitchen and bathroom walls need this step. Use a damp (not wet) cloth. Allow walls to dry completely before painting.

Use paintable caulk along baseboards, door frames, and crown molding. Smooth with a caulk tool for a professional finish.

Use a stain-blocking primer (Kilz or Zinsser brand). This prevents stains from bleeding through new paint.

Paint 12-inch squares of your top 2-3 color choices. Check them in natural light (morning and afternoon) and artificial light (evening).

If you spot soft drywall, active leaks, or mold, stop. Fix the source first. Painting over moisture traps problems inside the wall.

Choose from a paint brand's full palette (Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, etc.). Write down the exact color name and code.

Eggshell or satin is typical for living spaces. Semi-gloss for kitchens and bathrooms (easier to clean). Matte hides imperfections.

Ask your contractor what brand and grade they use. Premium paint (Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams) costs more but lasts longer.

Primer + paint (2 coats) is standard for best results. Primer-in-one is faster but may require 3 coats. Discuss with your contractor.

Each estimate should break down: prep work, primer, paint, labor hours, and total cost. Compare apples to apples, not just the total.

Ask for proof of current business license and liability insurance. KC Painting has 19 years serving Kansas City and Olathe—a sign of stability.

Request photos from homes in your area (Kansas City or Olathe). This shows quality level and that they work in your neighborhood.

Ask for 2-3 homeowner references from the past 6 months. Call and ask: 'Would you hire them again?' and 'Was there any damage or mess?'

Get a start date and expected completion date. Confirm hours (typically 8 AM–5 PM). Include this in your contract.

Ask: 'Will you fill all holes? Sand glossy surfaces? Prime water stains?' This clarifies what the estimate covers.

Some contractors offer color consultation. If you're torn between shades, ask if the painter will guide you (especially helpful in Greater Kansas City homes with varied lighting).

Ask: 'Will you clean drips? Remove tape? Vacuum? What's final cleanup included in the price?' Clarify expectations.

Contract should include: scope, colors, price, start/end dates, prep work, cleanup, payment terms, and warranty. Never pay in full upfront.

Photograph walls, corners, baseboards, and lighting. These become proof of the transformation and help the contractor document their work.

Remove obstacles, toys, boxes, or clutter. Painters carry equipment and ladders. A clear path speeds the job and prevents damage.

Let painters know where the restroom is and if they can refill water bottles. This small courtesy improves morale and prevents mid-day breaks.

Ask if the painter is buying the paint or if you're supplying it. Clarify who handles delivery and storage.

Interior latex paint is typically dry to touch in 1-2 hours but needs 24 hours before furniture is moved back. Plan accordingly.

Post the painter's contact info and daily hours on your fridge. This prevents confusion if you need to reach them.