How to start a painting business and land your first job

Starting a painting business is a rewarding venture that combines a keen eye for detail and practical skills with business savvy. With the market valued in the tens of billions, there is steady demand for professional painting services across residential homes, commercial buildings, and renovation projects.

This guide will take you through the practical steps of obtaining necessary licenses, securing funding, acquiring equipment, and building supplier relationships to help you launch a successful painting business in the U.S.

Step 1: Plan your business and validate your idea

First, get a feel for your local market. Visit new housing developments and talk to builders. You can also check your city’s public records for building permits to see where work is happening and what types of projects are common.

Next, analyze your competition. Use platforms like Angi and Yelp to find local painters. Note their pricing, services offered, and customer reviews. This research often reveals service gaps, like specializing in historic homes or eco-friendly paints, that you can fill.

Estimate your startup costs

Initial investment can vary, but a solid budget is key. Many new owners miscalculate by forgetting smaller expenses or overspending on equipment they don't need yet. You might want to rent specialized tools like high-end sprayers before you buy.

• Licensing & Insurance: $500 - $2,000
• Tools & Equipment: $1,500 - $3,000
• Used Work Van/Truck: $5,000 - $15,000
• Initial Marketing: $300 - $1,000

Your total startup fund will likely be between $7,300 and $21,000. Securing this capital before you start prevents cash flow problems down the road.

Here are 3 immediate steps to take:

• Research three local competitors on Angi or Yelp to identify their main services.
• Create a simple spreadsheet to budget for your initial equipment and licensing fees.
• Scout two local neighborhoods to assess the demand for residential or commercial painting.

Step 2: Set up your legal structure and get licensed

Choose your business structure

Most new painters register as a Limited Liability Company (LLC). This structure separates your personal assets from business debts. You can file the paperwork yourself through your Secretary of State's website for about $50 to $500, depending on your state.

A common misstep is to operate as a sole proprietor. While simpler, it leaves your personal finances exposed if something goes wrong on a job. An LLC provides a layer of protection that is well worth the initial setup cost.

Secure your licenses and permits

If you plan to have employees, get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. It is free and you can apply online. Next, check with your state’s contractor licensing board. Many states require a specific painting contractor license, which can cost $300-$500 and take 4-8 weeks to process.

For work on homes built before 1978, federal law requires EPA Lead-Safe Certification under the RRP Rule. The required 8-hour course costs around $200-$400. Do not skip this, as fines for non-compliance are steep.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• File for an LLC with your Secretary of State.
• Apply for a free Employer Identification Number (EIN) on the IRS website.
• Find your state’s contractor board to review painting license requirements.
• Research local EPA-certified trainers for the RRP course if you plan to work on older homes.

Step 3: Insure your business and manage risk

Secure your insurance policies

Your next move is to protect your new company. General liability insurance is non-negotiable, as it covers accidental property damage or client injuries. Aim for at least $1 million in coverage, which typically costs between $600 and $1,200 annually.

Many new owners make the mistake of underinsuring. A single accident on a job site could otherwise wipe out your business before it even starts. This is a manageable cost that provides significant peace of mind.

You will also need workers' compensation if you hire help, and a commercial auto policy for your work vehicle. Consider inland marine insurance to protect expensive equipment while in transit or on a job site. These policies are distinct from general liability.

With this in mind, look for providers who specialize in the trades. Companies like Hiscox, Next Insurance, and The Hartford understand the specific risks painters face, from overspray damage to ladder falls. A general agent might not secure the best policy for your needs.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Request a general liability quote for at least $1 million in coverage.
• Check your state’s requirements for workers' compensation insurance.
• Contact a specialized provider like Hiscox or Next Insurance for a quote.
• Ask about bundling commercial auto and general liability policies to lower your premium.

Step 4: Set up your workspace and buy equipment

Find your home base

You do not need a retail storefront. A secure, climate-controlled storage unit of 100-200 square feet is perfect for your supplies. Before you sign a lease, check local zoning laws. Some areas have restrictions on storing commercial materials in residential garages or certain storage facilities.

When you look at units, ask about short-term lease options or introductory discounts. This gives you flexibility as your business grows. A common mistake is signing a long-term lease for a space you quickly outgrow or find is not suitable.

Purchase your gear and supplies

Your equipment is a direct investment in your quality of work. You can start with a solid mid-range setup and upgrade later. Many new owners buy expensive sprayers they do not need for their first jobs. Consider renting a high-end sprayer for specific projects instead.

• Ladders: A 24-foot extension ladder ($200-$400) and a 6-foot stepladder ($50-$100) cover most jobs.
• Paint Sprayer: A reliable airless sprayer like a Graco Magnum X5 costs around $300-$400.
• Brushes & Rollers: Budget $200-$300 for a quality initial set of brushes, roller frames, and covers.

Once you have your gear list, open a contractor account with a major supplier like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore. This gives you access to discounts of 20-40% on paints and supplies, with no minimum order requirements. These relationships are valuable for advice and support.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Research local storage units and compare monthly rates for a 100-200 sq. ft. space.
• Open a contractor account at a local Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore store.
• Create a shopping list for your initial equipment, comparing rental vs. purchase costs for a sprayer.
• Check your city’s zoning regulations for storing business equipment at home.

Step 5: Set up your payment processing

Establish clear payment terms from the start. A common structure is a 30-50% deposit to cover materials, with the remaining balance due upon project completion. Include these terms in your client contract to prevent misunderstandings about payment schedules.

Many new painters only accept checks, which can delay cash flow. To avoid this, you should accept credit cards and digital payments from day one. This makes it easier for clients to pay you promptly, especially for final balances after a job walkthrough.

For painters who need to accept payments on-site, JIM offers a streamlined solution. With JIM, you can accept debit, credit, and digital wallets directly through your smartphone. Just tap and the payment is done. This is perfect to collect deposits on the spot.

At just 1.99% per transaction with no hidden costs or extra hardware, its rate is very competitive. Other providers often charge 2.5% or more, plus monthly fees. This difference adds up and leaves more money in your pocket after each job.

Here is how it works:

• Get Started: Download the JIM app for iOS.
• Make a Sale: Type the sales amount, hit sell, and ask your customer to tap their card or device on your phone.
• Access Funds: Your money is available on your JIM card as soon as the sale is done. There is no wait for bank transfers.

Here are 3 immediate steps to take:

• Add your payment terms (e.g., 50% deposit) to your client contract template.
• Download the JIM app to explore its features for on-site payments.
• Compare JIM’s 1.99% rate with another mobile payment provider.

Step 6: Secure funding and manage your finances

You have a few solid options to fund your business. The SBA Microloan program offers up to $50,000, with interest rates often between 8% and 13%. These are great for initial equipment purchases. Another route is equipment financing, which lets you pay for a work van or sprayer over time.

Also, consider a business line of credit. This gives you flexible access to cash for buying paint and supplies between jobs. It is a good way to manage your cash flow without taking out a large lump-sum loan.

Plan your working capital

You will need a cash buffer for the first three to six months. A reserve of $5,000 to $10,000 is a safe target. This covers fuel, insurance, and marketing before your first client payments arrive. Many new owners underestimate this and face cash shortages early on.

To avoid issues, open a separate business checking account immediately. Mixing personal and business funds complicates taxes and puts your personal assets at risk. A dedicated account keeps your finances clean and professional from day one.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Research the SBA Microloan program on the official SBA website.
• Contact your bank to ask about a business line of credit.
• Open a dedicated business checking account for your LLC.
• Calculate your estimated operating costs for the first three months to refine your working capital goal.

Step 7: Hire your team and set up operations

Build your painting crew

When you are ready to hire, start with a Painter’s Apprentice. This role handles prep work and cleanup for about $15-$20 per hour. As you grow, you can add a Journeyman Painter at $25-$35 per hour to lead jobs. This frees you up for estimates and client meetings.

A mistake some new owners make is misclassifying workers as 1099 contractors to avoid payroll taxes. If you control their schedule and tasks, the IRS considers them W-2 employees. It is best to consult an accountant to get this right from the start.

Streamline your daily operations

For scheduling, you can begin with Google Calendar. Once you have a few jobs booked, you might want to look at field service software like Jobber or Housecall Pro. These platforms help manage quotes, schedules, and invoices in one place, which saves a lot of administrative time.

As a benchmark, a full-time painter can typically generate between $50,000 and $70,000 in annual revenue. For safety, have your team complete OSHA 10-hour construction training. Remember, anyone working on pre-1978 homes needs that EPA Lead-Safe certification.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Draft a job description for a Painter’s Apprentice, including pay and duties.
• Consult an accountant about the difference between a 1099 contractor and a W-2 employee.
• Explore a free trial of a scheduling app like Jobber or Housecall Pro.
• Look up local OSHA 10-hour construction safety courses for future hires.

Step 8: Market your business and find customers

Establish your digital footprint

First, create a Google Business Profile. It is free and puts you on local search maps. After each job, ask your client for a review. These reviews are powerful social proof and directly influence future customers who find you online.

A simple website that showcases your work is also a strong asset. Use a platform like Squarespace to build a professional-looking portfolio. Include high-quality photos of your finished projects and clear contact information. This becomes your digital business card.

Use direct, local marketing

Focus on targeted, old-school methods that work. Door hangers in neighborhoods with older homes or new construction are very effective. You can get around 1,000 hangers printed for about $200. Many new owners waste money on broad online ads before they have a reputation.

A better use of your initial budget is to build relationships. Introduce yourself to local real estate agents, interior designers, and property managers. They consistently need reliable painters for client homes and rental turnovers and can become a steady source of referrals.

As you track your efforts, aim to convert about 1 in 4 qualified leads into a booked job. Your Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) should ideally stay under $250 per project when you start. This helps ensure each job is profitable from the beginning.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Create and complete your Google Business Profile with photos and service details.
• Design and order 500 door hangers for a specific target neighborhood.
• Identify and contact two local real estate agents to introduce your services.
• Set up a simple spreadsheet to track your leads and marketing costs.

Step 9: Price your services and create quotes

Your pricing strategy directly impacts your profitability. Most painters charge either by the hour or by the project. An hourly rate of $40-$60 is common for skilled labor, but project-based pricing is often better for clients and protects your earnings if a job takes longer than expected.

For example, a standard 12x12 room might take 6-8 hours. At $50 per hour for labor, plus the cost of paint and supplies, you can build a reliable project price. This clarity helps clients feel confident in what they are paying for.

Factor in your costs and profit

To set your final price, calculate your direct costs and add your profit margin. A standard practice is to mark up materials like paint and primer by 20-50%. For labor, aim for a net profit margin of 30-50% after you cover all business overhead.

A frequent misstep is to underbid just to win a job. This devalues your work and makes it difficult to stay profitable. Your price should reflect your skill, insurance, and the quality of your materials. Confident pricing attracts clients who value quality work.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Calculate your target hourly rate, including overhead and a 30-50% profit margin.
• Create a quote template that itemizes labor and materials separately.
• Price out a sample project, like a 12x12 room, using your new rates.
• Call two local competitors for a rough quote on a small job to gauge market rates.

Step 10: Scale your business and maintain quality

As you grow, consistent quality is what will protect your reputation. Create a final walkthrough checklist for every job. This should include items like confirming clean cut-in lines, no paint on hardware, and even coverage. Have the client sign it upon completion to ensure satisfaction.

Set your standards and growth triggers

For industry benchmarks, you can look to the Painting Contractors Association (PCA) standards. These provide clear guidelines on what defines a professional job. Adopting these standards helps you train new hires and justify your pricing to clients who value quality.

Once a single painter consistently generates over $70,000 in annual revenue, or your lead time for new jobs stretches past four weeks, it is time to hire. Many owners wait too long and burn out. Plan your next hire before you are overwhelmed.

When you add team members, field service software like Jobber or Housecall Pro becomes very helpful. These platforms manage scheduling, dispatching, and invoicing for multiple crews. This prevents the administrative chaos that can come with growth and lets you focus on sales.

Here are 4 immediate steps to take:

• Create a final walkthrough checklist for clients to sign off on.
• Review the standards on the Painting Contractors Association (PCA) website.
• Set a revenue or lead-time goal that will trigger your first or next hire.
• Schedule a demo with a field service software like Jobber to see how it handles multi-person crews.

You now have the steps to build a successful painting business. Remember that your reputation is your most valuable asset, built one clean job at a time. You have the roadmap, so go ahead and get started.

As you finish projects, getting paid quickly helps your cash flow. JIM turns your phone into a card reader, so you can accept payments on the spot without extra hardware for a flat 1.99% fee. Download JIM to get set up.