Find the house age and previous coating history
Look for the property’s construction date and any records of later additions or major changes. An older front room and a newer extension may have different materials and coating histories.
The age of a neighborhood does not establish the age or condition of every surface in your home. Tell the contractor what you know and mark the rest as uncertain. Photographs of retained trim or older patches can support the later assessment.
Before disturbing pre-1978 paint
For work that disturbs painted surfaces in pre-1978 homes, EPA’s renovation guidance for consumers is an important starting point. Discuss applicable lead-safe requirements with an appropriately certified firm before sanding, scraping or other disturbance.
Age alone does not prove lead paint is present. This website does not test coatings or provide abatement advice. Ask the professional how the actual surfaces and proposed work will be assessed.
Preserve trim and detail without hiding damage
List the doors, moldings, built-ins and other details you want to keep. A finish refresh can preserve their shape, but it should not conceal decay, loose material or another unresolved problem.
Agree what counts as cosmetic preparation and what requires repair or specialist restoration. If a particular texture or grain appearance matters, discuss a suitable sample before work proceeds across the room.
Compare a finish refresh with restoration work
A repaint changes the finish. Restoration can involve more extensive material repair, specialist techniques or historic-detail work. Ask the provider to define which service they are proposing and where their scope ends.
Record protection, preparation, expected appearance and care instructions in the quote. Keep any uncertain areas visible rather than accepting an all-purpose promise.
Request painting help with the rooms or exterior areas involved and any history you already know.