feedback on HOUSE PAINTING

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I've just finished reading "House Painting" by Joel Ellis and "Painting Hints" by Donald W. Geary in MOTHER NO. 28 and found that they made a lot of sense. Both authors, though, failed to stress some points I think are essential.

I worked for ton years as a carpenter and have been in business myself for five years as a general contractor and builder . . . and although I don't like to insist on signed contracts, pay exorbitant insurance rates, etc., that's the way it has to be or I'd find myself on the short end of the stick. Here are some suggestions that MOTHER's readers might think about before grabbing a brush and going to work.

[1] Get the customer to sign an agreement, and be very specific in that contract about what you are and aren't to do. Otherwise, you may find yourself stuck with jobs you never expected because the homeowner thought you were supposed to do them. After all, until you've got all the money in your hand (in cash), the other fellow has you by the seat of the pants . . . and he knows it. Believe me, I've been there.

[2] Don't fall for the "extras" deal . . . the one where the owner says, "As long as you're on the spot you might as well do so-and-so and I'll pay you extra." It's fine to pick up odd jobs—in fact, they'll help you break even if you find you've underestimated the original work—but make out an "additional work order" and have the customer sign it. If he's not out to screw you, he'll understand that this protects him as well as you.

[3] When you write up an agreement, specify how and when you are to be paid for your work. Got at least a third of the money-preferably half—down before you paint, or at any rate on the day you start the job. This advance will cover a cost of materials and some wages. If you hire an assistant it's an absolute must, for he has to be paid whether you are or not.

Remember, no matter what kind of nice guy you think your customer is, the down payment will sometimes be all you'll ever get. You may even be surprised to find out that people you thought of as friends will stick it to you for a couple of bucks . . . so at least make an effort to protect yourself.

[4] Try to deal with the person who pays the bill. Otherwise you may find yourself in the middle of a domestic quarrel and not getting any money for a job the head of the household didn't OK.

If the lady of the house asks you to do something extra and it's her husband who handles the checkbook, bring the request to his attention in a casual way. For instance, next time you see him you might mention the day when you'll be able to do that additional work. If he doesn't know what you're talking about, watch out!

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