Go to Check a License and be sure that the contractor has proper licenses and liability insurance
Check with friends and family as to who they know
Ask a tradesman you have been happy with. For example: a good painter will know who the good plumbers are!
Make sure to meet with your prospective contractor face to face…you can tell a lot about a person by
Are they neat, clean and orderly
Do they show up on time.
Do they give you a written quote that is clear and specifies what they will be doing, how they will do it along with specifics on materials (brand and product) being used
Painters should specify number of coats and, if spraying, will they be back-rolling?
Get a written warranty that covers labor….not just materials.
Get referrals and check with these previous clients.