How to Prepare for Professional Painters: A Complete Homeowner Checklist

You've hired a professional painting contractor, the start date is approaching, and you're wondering what you need to do before the crew arrives. Should you move all your furniture? Take down pictures? Remove everything from closets? Clear the yard?

The right preparation makes painting projects go more smoothly, protects your belongings, and helps contractors work more efficiently (which can save you money if you're paying by the hour). But you also don't want to do unnecessary work—professional painters expect to handle certain setup tasks themselves.

This guide walks you through exactly how to prepare for professional painters, room by room and project by project, so you know what to handle yourself and what your contractor will take care of.

Why Proper Preparation Matters

Preparing your home before painters arrive delivers several benefits:

Protects your belongings: Moving fragile or valuable items prevents accidental damage from paint splatters, ladder bumps, or other mishaps.

Speeds up the project: Contractors can start working immediately rather than spending billable hours moving furniture or clearing spaces.

Reduces costs: Less contractor time on setup means more time on actual painting, potentially shortening the overall timeline.

Prevents disruption: Preparing in advance means you're not scrambling to move things or clear spaces while painters are trying to work.

Ensures quality: Clear work areas allow painters to access all surfaces properly and set up equipment where needed.

That said, professional painting contractors expect to do some setup work themselves—moving furniture to room centers, protecting floors, and masking surfaces. The key is understanding where the line falls between your responsibilities and theirs.

General Preparation for All Projects

These steps apply whether you're having interior or exterior painting done:

1. Communicate Special Considerations

Before the crew arrives, inform your contractor about:

Pets: How many, what kind, where they'll be during work hours. Some homeowners prefer to board pets or keep them in specific rooms away from work areas.

Security systems: How to disable/enable, entry codes, whether painters need to avoid certain sensors.

Children's schedules: Nap times, school pickup times, or other considerations that might affect work hours or noise levels.

Parking: Where the crew should park, especially important in neighborhoods with limited street parking or HOA restrictions.

Access instructions: Lockbox codes, hidden keys, garage door openers, or how to enter if you won't be home.

Home quirks: Sticky doors, tricky locks, circuit breakers that control specific outlets, etc.

2. Secure Valuables and Important Items

Move to a secure location:

• Jewelry and cash
• Important documents
• Electronics you're concerned about (laptops, tablets)
• Family heirlooms or irreplaceable items
• Collectibles or antiques

Even though professional contractors carry insurance, preventing damage is better than filing claims. If it's valuable or irreplaceable, move it out of work areas entirely.

3. Plan for Daily Life Disruption

For interior projects:

• Identify which rooms will be unusable each day
• Plan meals accordingly (kitchen painting means no cooking)
• Arrange alternate sleeping spaces if bedrooms are being painted
• Consider the smell and ventilation needs (low-VOC paints minimize this)
• Prepare for noise during work hours

For exterior projects:

• Expect limited access to certain areas (front door, side gates)
• Plan for noise from scraping, power washing, and equipment
• Be aware of parking disruptions (contractor vehicles and equipment)
• Notify neighbors about the project timeline and potential impacts

4. Arrange for Access

Decide how painters will enter if you won't be home:

• Provide house keys or garage door openers
• Set up lockbox with code
• Leave doors unlocked (if you're comfortable with this)
• Be home the first day to provide access and tour, then provide keys for subsequent days

Always get keys back at project completion or change codes afterward.

Preparing for Interior Painting

Interior preparation varies by room type and what's being painted (walls only vs. walls and trim vs. everything).

What Professional Painters Will Handle

Your contractor should take care of:

• Moving furniture away from walls to room centers
• Covering furniture with plastic sheeting
• Laying drop cloths over floors and carpets
• Taping off areas not being painted
• Removing switch plates and outlet covers (most contractors)
• Masking light fixtures and hardware
• Protecting countertops and cabinets

What You Should Do Before Painters Arrive

In all rooms:

1. Remove wall decorations:

   • Pictures and artwork
   • Mirrors
   • Shelving units
   • Clocks and wall-mounted decor
   • Curtain rods and curtains (or discuss with contractor)

2. Clear small items from surfaces:

   • Knick-knacks from shelves and mantels
   • Items from top of dressers and nightstands
   • Books from bookcases (if painting the bookcases)
   • Electronics that could be damaged (remove or discuss with contractor)

3. Remove fragile or valuable items entirely:

   • Antiques
   • Expensive electronics
   • Collections (figurines, pottery, etc.)
   • Anything you'd be upset about if damaged

4. Create clear pathways:

   • Ensure contractors can easily move through the house
   • Clear hallways and entry areas
   • Move toys, shoes, and clutter from walkways

In specific rooms:

Bedrooms:

• Strip bedding and pillows (or discuss with contractor about protecting beds)
• Clear nightstands completely
• Remove items from top of dressers
• Empty any shelving units being painted
• Consider moving mattress/box spring if painting behind the bed

Bathrooms:

• Remove toiletries, towels, and bath mats
• Clear countertops completely
• Remove shower curtains and bath accessories
• Empty medicine cabinets if they're being painted
• Take rugs and mats out entirely

Kitchens:

• Clear countertops of all appliances, dishes, and items
• Remove items from top of refrigerator
• Empty open shelving if it's being painted
• Remove or secure any hanging items (pot racks, pendant lights if removable)
• Clear refrigerator front (magnets, photos, notes)
• Consider emptying upper cabinets if ceiling is being painted (risk of drips)

Living/Dining Rooms:

• Remove all wall art and mirrors
• Clear mantels and built-in shelving
• Move delicate items (lamps, vases, decorative objects)
• Roll up area rugs (or discuss with contractor about protection)

Home Offices:

• Back up all computer data before painters arrive
• Disconnect and move computers and printers if concerned about dust
• Clear all wall-mounted items
• Protect important papers and files

Closets (if being painted):

• Remove all clothing and items
• Take down hanging rods if needed for painting
• Clear shelves completely

What to Do About Large Furniture

Small to medium furniture (chairs, nightstands, small dressers):

• Move out of the room entirely if possible, or
• Stack in room center (contractors will cover)

Large furniture (beds, dressers, sofas, entertainment centers):

• Discuss with contractor before moving—most contractors prefer to move these themselves
• If you do move furniture, be careful not to damage floors
• Contractors will move pieces to room center and protect with plastic

Built-ins and immovable items:

• Clear them completely
• Contractor will protect and work around them

Preparing for Exterior Painting

Exterior preparation is mostly about clearing areas around the house so contractors can access all surfaces and set up equipment safely.

What Professional Painters Will Handle

Exterior contractors should:

• Cover shrubs and landscaping near the house
• Lay ground protection (tarps or plastic)
• Move small lightweight items (potted plants, decorations)
• Set up ladders, scaffolding, and equipment
• Protect windows, doors, and outdoor fixtures

What You Should Do Before Painters Arrive

Around the house perimeter:

1. Clear at least 3-4 feet from the house foundation:

   • Move patio furniture, grills, and fire pits
   • Relocate potted plants and planters
   • Move garden decorations and yard art
   • Remove doormats and welcome signs
   • Move bikes, toys, and sports equipment

2. Trim back vegetation:

   • Cut shrubs and bushes back from house walls (leave 2-3 feet clearance)
   • Trim tree branches touching or near the house
   • Clear vines from siding (ivy, climbing roses, etc.)
   • Remove or tie back hanging plants near work areas

3. Secure outdoor items:

   • Store cushions and outdoor fabrics
   • Put away wind chimes and hanging decorations
   • Remove flags and banners
   • Secure gates so they don't blow open during work

4. Clear pathways:

   • Ensure contractors can walk around entire house perimeter
   • Remove obstacles from side yards and tight spaces
   • Clear pathways for equipment (sprayers, ladders, scaffolding)

5. Address utilities and systems:

   • Mark sprinkler heads near the house so contractors avoid them
   • Ensure contractors can access outdoor electrical outlets (for power tools)
   • Provide access to exterior water spigots (for cleanup)
   • Point out gas meters, AC units, and other mechanicals to avoid

Specific areas:

Porches and decks:

• Remove all furniture
• Take down hanging plants and lights
• Roll up outdoor rugs
• Remove decorative items (planters, statues, etc.)

Garage areas:

• Clear items stored against garage walls
• Move cars out of garage if garage interior or doors are being painted
• Remove items hanging on garage exterior walls

Yard and landscaping:

• Inform contractors about any concerns (prize rosebushes, new plantings, etc.)
• Consider watering lawn areas where ladders will sit (prevents browning)
• Point out any irrigation systems or hidden obstacles

What to Do About Outdoor Structures

Sheds, playsets, trampolines near the house:

• Can't be moved—just point them out to contractors
• Ensure there's access to work around them

Outdoor lighting:

• Fixtures will be masked by contractors
• You may want to remove delicate or expensive fixtures entirely

Security cameras and doorbells:

• Inform contractors of their locations
• Discuss whether they need to be temporarily removed

Preparing for Cabinet Painting

Cabinet projects require specific preparation since the kitchen will be out of commission for several days.

What Professional Painters Will Handle

Cabinet painters typically:

• Remove all cabinet doors and drawer fronts
• Remove hardware (hinges, knobs, pulls)
• Protect countertops, appliances, and flooring
• Set up ventilation and work areas

What You Should Do

1. Empty all cabinets and drawers completely:

   • Dishes, cookware, and utensils
   • Pantry items
   • Everything from upper and lower cabinets
   • Store in another room or in boxes

2. Clear countertops entirely:

   • Small appliances (toaster, coffee maker, mixer, etc.)
   • Decorative items
   • Dish drainer and soap dispensers
   • Everything off the counters

3. Plan for kitchen downtime:

   • Cabinet painting typically takes 5-10 days
   • Plan meals that don't require full kitchen access
   • Set up temporary kitchen area if possible (coffee maker, microwave in another room)
   • Stock up on paper plates and disposable utensils

4. Protect adjacent areas:

   • Remove items from nearby rooms if there's overspray risk
   • Clear dining table if it's adjacent to kitchen
   • Take down wall art in connected spaces

Special Situations

Some projects or homes require extra preparation:

Homes with Young Children

• Plan activities outside the home during work hours when possible
• Set up alternative play areas away from work zones
• Explain to children which areas are off-limits
• Remove toys from work areas
• Consider boarding young children with grandparents/friends during painting if feasible

Homes with Pets

• Secure pets in rooms away from work areas, or
• Board pets during work days, or
• Use pet gates to keep pets contained
• Inform contractor about any pets that will be home
• Ensure pets can't escape through doors contractors are using
• Provide written instructions about pet care if contractors will be accessing pet areas

Occupied vs. Vacant Homes

Occupied homes:

• More challenging for contractors to work around furniture and daily life
• Requires daily setup and teardown
• May extend project timeline slightly
• Need to coordinate around homeowner schedules

Vacant homes:

• Much easier and faster for contractors
• Can leave setup in place overnight
• No coordination needed around occupants
• Often results in faster project completion

Homes with Lead Paint (Pre-1978)

If your home was built before 1978 and contains lead paint, contractors will implement additional containment measures:

• Extra plastic sheeting and barriers
• HEPA vacuuming equipment
• Restricted access to work areas
• Thorough cleanup protocols

Your preparation is the same, but you should:

• Keep children and pregnant women away from work areas entirely
• Plan to stay elsewhere during the project if possible
• Follow contractor's instructions about re-entry after work

HOA or Historic District Requirements

Some communities have specific requirements:

• Certain work hours (often no weekends or early starts)
• Color approval processes (complete before project starts)
• Neighbor notification requirements
• Specific contractor parking locations

Handle any HOA approvals before your contractor's start date to avoid delays.

Final Preparations the Day Before

The day before painters arrive:

1. Complete your preparation:

   • Finish moving items as planned
   • Double-check all rooms for overlooked items
   • Confirm valuables are secured

2. Confirm with contractor:

   • Verify start time
   • Confirm they have access information
   • Review any last-minute questions or concerns

3. Prepare your household:

   • Inform family members about timeline
   • Set up alternative spaces as needed
   • Review pet plans with everyone

4. Do final checks:

   • Turn off security systems if needed
   • Unlock gates or doors for access
   • Ensure parking spaces are available
   • Put away anything you forgot earlier

Day 1: When Painters Arrive

On the first day:

1. Be available for walkthrough:

   • Tour the space with the contractor
   • Point out any areas of concern
   • Clarify any scope questions
   • Show utility locations (circuit breakers, water shutoffs)

2. Discuss logistics:

   • Confirm work hours and schedule
   • Review which rooms will be worked on when
   • Establish communication preferences (text, call, in-person)
   • Provide emergency contact information

3. Answer questions:

   • Contractors may have questions about specific areas
   • Point out any delicate surfaces or special concerns
   • Clarify any uncertainties about scope

4. Give them space:

   • After the initial walkthrough, let contractors work
   • Be available for questions but don't hover
   • Check in periodically if you're home

What to Expect During the Project

Daily routine:

• Contractors arrive at scheduled time (usually 8-9 AM)
• Work through the day (typically until 3-5 PM)
• Clean work area at end of each day
• Update you on progress
• Secure the site before leaving

Your role during the project:

• Stay out of active work areas
• Be available for questions
• Inspect progress and raise concerns promptly
• Maintain communication about schedule or changes

The Final Walkthrough

At project completion:

1. Inspect all work thoroughly:

   • Check coverage and color consistency
   • Look for missed spots or drips
   • Examine cut lines and detail work
   • Verify cleanup is complete

2. Create punch list:

   • Note any areas needing touch-ups
   • Identify any concerns
   • Contractor should address before final payment

3. Confirm completion:

   • All items addressed satisfactorily
   • Cleanup complete
   • Furniture returned to position
   • Any paint left for touch-ups labeled and stored

4. Make final payment:

   • Only after everything is complete and approved
   • Request lien releases if applicable
   • Get warranty documentation in writing

The Lamorinda Painting Approach

At Lamorinda Painting, we guide clients through preparation as part of our process:

Clear communication before start:

• We discuss what you should do and what we'll handle
• We provide a preparation checklist for your specific project
• We answer all questions about access and logistics

Flexible approach:

• We can handle more or less setup depending on your preference and physical ability
• We work with elderly clients who can't move furniture themselves
• We accommodate occupied homes and busy schedules

Respect for your home:

• We treat your home as carefully as we'd treat our own
• We protect all surfaces thoroughly
• We leave work areas clean at end of each day
• We take pride in spotless final cleanup

Professional setup:

• We arrive with all necessary protection materials
• We move furniture carefully to avoid floor damage
• We protect everything thoroughly before starting work
• We restore your home to normal condition when complete

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to move all my furniture?

No. Professional painters move large furniture to room centers and protect it. You should move small delicate items, valuables, and clear surfaces (shelves, mantels, etc.). Discuss specific concerns with your contractor—some prefer you don't move heavy furniture to avoid floor damage.

Should I remove switch plates and outlet covers?

Most professional painters handle this as part of their process. Ask your contractor their preference. Some prefer homeowners don't remove these to ensure they're reinstalled correctly.

How do I prepare if I can't physically move things?

Discuss this with your contractor during the estimate. Professional contractors can handle all setup for elderly clients or those with physical limitations. This may add slightly to project cost but ensures you don't strain yourself.

Can I stay in my home during interior painting?

Yes. Most homeowners stay home during painting projects. Work happens room by room, so you'll have space to retreat to. Communicate with your contractor about which areas will be worked on when so you can plan accordingly. Low-VOC paints minimize smell.

What about my pets during the project?

Options include: keeping pets in a separate room away from work areas, boarding them during work days, or using baby gates to contain them. Discuss with your contractor—some are comfortable working around pets, others prefer they be separated. Never let pets into fresh paint areas.

Do I need to cover my landscaping for exterior painting?

No, professional painters handle this. They'll cover shrubs and plants near the house with tarps or plastic. You should trim back overgrown vegetation touching the house and move any delicate or prized plants you're particularly concerned about.

What if I haven't finished preparing when painters arrive?

Communicate with your contractor ASAP. They may be able to start in areas that are ready while you finish other rooms, or you may need to reschedule. Most contractors are flexible but need notice rather than surprises on arrival day.

Should I be home when painters are working?

Not necessary, though being home the first day for the walkthrough is helpful. Many homeowners maintain normal work schedules during painting projects. Ensure contractors have access and your contact information for questions. Being home for the final walkthrough is important.

Making Your Project Go Smoothly

Proper preparation makes painting projects less stressful and more successful. Take time to prepare thoughtfully, communicate clearly with your contractor, and don't hesitate to ask questions.

At Lamorinda Painting, we serve homeowners throughout Lafayette, Lamorinda, and the East Bay with professional service that includes helping you understand exactly how to prepare. We provide preparation guidance, work flexibly around your situation, and protect your home carefully throughout the process.

If you're planning a painting project, contact us today for a free estimate. We'll explain exactly what preparation you need to do, what we'll handle, and how we'll protect your home during the work.

The right preparation sets the stage for excellent results. We're here to guide you through it.