Start with a surface inspection
Walk the house and photograph peeling, bubbling, chalky residue, hairline cracks, staining, and exposed wood or metal. Note areas that stay damp or receive strong afternoon sun. A coating cannot resolve an active leak or unsound substrate.
Ask each painter to identify which conditions are cosmetic and which require repair before painting.
Get the preparation in writing
The scope should say how walls will be cleaned, how loose paint will be removed, which cracks will be patched or sealed, and what will be primed. Include doors, trim, soffits, railings, and garage doors explicitly if you expect them to be painted.
- How will landscaping, pavers, windows, and fixtures be protected?
- What happens if hidden damage appears after washing or scraping?
- Who supplies the paint, and are product names and finish levels listed?
Plan around weather and drying
Southwest Florida’s rainy season can bring frequent showers and higher humidity. A responsible schedule accounts for the condition of the surface, the forecast, and the manufacturer’s application and recoat instructions. Ask how the crew will handle a sudden rain delay rather than promising an exact day regardless of conditions.
Judge the finished work
Walk the property in daylight. Check coverage at edges and transitions, look at repaired areas, and confirm that fixtures, plants, and hardscape are clean. Keep the final product list and warranty terms with your project records.
For stucco cracks, water intrusion, or structural concerns, determine the cause and the appropriate repair before choosing a paint system.