How to verify a painting contractor's insurance in Houston

Texas does not issue a statewide painting-contractor license. A painter who says they are "licensed by the state" for painting is mistaken or misleading you. What protects you is insurance: general liability pays for damage the crew causes to your home, and workers' compensation covers a worker who is hurt on your property.

Workers' comp is a particular Texas issue. The Texas Department of Insurance says private employers can choose to carry it, but it is not required. A painting company without it may still be a legitimate business, but you should know before a crew climbs a ladder at your house.

1. Ask for it before you sign — request a current certificate of insurance (COI). Many insurers issue it on a standard one-page form. A legitimate company sends it without hesitation.
2. Match the name — the named insured should be the same business named on your estimate and contract, not a different company or an individual you have never heard of.
3. Check the dates — every policy has an effective and an expiration date. Make sure the policy covers the dates your job will run.
4. Read the coverage lines — look for commercial general liability and its limits, and check whether workers' compensation is listed. If it is not, ask why.
5. Call the agent — the certificate lists the agent or insurer who issued it. Call that number (look it up yourself, not from an email) and confirm the policy is active.
6. Ask about subcontractors — if any part of the job will be done by another company, ask for that company's certificate too.

• HOAs and townhome associations often require a certificate before a crew can work on common walls, fences or roofs.
• Condos and managed buildings may require the building or association to be named as certificate holder or additional insured.
• Commercial property managers usually set minimum coverage amounts in their vendor requirements. Ask for those requirements early.

• The painter cannot or will not send a certificate.
• The certificate is in a different business name than the estimate.
• The policy has expired or ends before your job is finished.
• Only a photo of an old certificate is offered, and the agent cannot be reached.
• A large deposit is requested before you have a written estimate or proof of insurance.

Houston Superior Painting maintains insurance coverage for its painting operations, including $2Mgeneral liability and workers' comp. Proof of insurance is available upon request, and customers who approve a project receive a copy of our current insurance documentation before work begins. We do not post the certificate publicly because it can contain confidential policy details. See how to request proof of insurance.

This guide is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Coverage terms vary by policy; read the actual certificate and policy documents, and ask your own insurance agent if you need advice about your situation.

• Texas Department of Insurance: Workers' compensation for employers
• Texas Department of Insurance: Workers' compensation coverage verification