This blog post was copied from the Wallcovering Installer Association homepage, which we are members of. Formerly the NGPP, we are now WIA. Go to their website for other great content on wallcovering information.
First, you’ll want to hire an installer with a reputation for excellent work. There are a number of ways to check for this information:
- Use recommendations from friends or neighbors – get references and check them. If possible, go look at finished work.
- Check the Better Business Bureau ratings for wallcovering installers in your area.
- Look for a member of the Wallcovering Installers Association. Members of this association must be craftsmen and women who professionally install wallcoverings.
Second, solicit two or three bids for the work you need doing. Do not blindly accept the lowest bid. Ask why a bid is as low or high as it is. A higher fee may be worth the extra services or better quality product provided. Make sure you understand precisely what the installer will do and what materials are necessary to complete your project successfully. In comparing prices, be sure you are comparing the same services to be provided.
What Needs to Be in Writing
A professional paperhanger will carefully prepare a comprehensive plan that estimates projects costs based on material, labor and experience specifications. A reputable wallcovering installer will not give you a sketchy, hastily prepared proposal.
You should detail exactly what you want from the installer. This can include protection of your household goods, office equipment and areas surrounding the job site. Specify daily cleanup or cleanup requirements upon completion of the project.
Be certain that you or your decorator specify all the materials to be used. Your installer will do the same so that these details (measurements, pattern names, brand names, quantity, and product information) will be part of the contract.
Make sure both parties understand the financial terms which should be spelled out in the contract. The total price, payment schedule and a cancellation penalty (if there is one) should be clear to both parties.
Any warranties should be in writing. Make sure warranties offered are written into the contract. A warranty must be identified as either “Full” or “Limited”.
A Full Warranty indicates that all faulty products will be repaired or replaced or your money will be refunded. A Limited Warranty indicates that the repair or replacement of damaged goods is limited in some way.
The name and address of the person or company offering the warranty must be identified. Time frames for all warranties should be clearly specified.
All changes to the original contract must be made in writing. Any amendments should be agreed upon by both parties before work is begun or continued.
If the contract upon which you and the installer agree is not complete to your exact specifications, do not sign it. Make sure you understand fully all terms and conditions. Affirm that you are getting exactly what you want, that you know the cost of each item/service and that you’re paying a fair price.
Finally, don’t hesitate to ask your professional paperhanger to provide certification of insurance covering worker’s compensation, property damage, and personal liability. Career wallcovering installers are insured for the kind of work they do. This request should be easily met.
Members of the Association are recognized as quality wallcoverings installers. Many are considered artisans and craftsman and women. For a referral to an Association member in your area, you may search via our Find a Paperhanger Feature.
Where can consumers find more information?
The EPA’s website is the best source of information for consumers about the new Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule requirements. Visit www.epa.gov/lead/ for complete details on current regulations. They provide valuable resources including several PDF pamphlets on lead, lead-based paint, lead poisoning and steps to perform renovations in pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities.
The National Lead Information Center (NLIC) can also be a valuable resource about lead. They can be reached at 1(800) 424-LEAD (5323) Monday through Friday from 8am to 6pm. Consumers may also submit an inquiry online to NLIC here.
Consumers can find a WIA member company in their area with Find a Professional directory. Learn more about WIA by calling (800) 254-WIA or emailing us at info@wallcoveringinstallers.org.
Hire D’franco Painting & Wallpaper to install your wallcoverings!
