Why Hiring a Licensed & Insured Painting Contractor Matters

Scott Jaeger • June 19, 2025
A white background with a few lines on it

Protect Your Property, Your Wallet, and Your Peace of Mind with a Professional You Can Trust

Painting your home might seem like a simple job, but hiring the wrong person can lead to costly mistakes, subpar results, or even legal trouble. While a handyman or a friend-of-a-friend might offer a lower price, that discount often comes with serious risks.


At Thrift Painting, we believe that peace of mind should come standard with every brushstroke. That’s why we’re fully licensed and insured—and why we think every Madison homeowner should know what that actually means.


What Does “Licensed and Insured” Really Mean?

A licensed contractor has met the state’s requirements to legally perform residential or commercial work. This often includes demonstrating knowledge of proper practices, safety regulations, and business conduct. In Wisconsin, painting contractors may hold Dwelling Contractor Credentials to legally work on homes and comply with Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) standards.


Being insured means we carry both liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage. This protects you as the homeowner from being financially responsible if something goes wrong—whether it’s damage to your home or an injury on the job.


The Risks of Hiring an Unlicensed or Uninsured Painter

When you hire someone who lacks proper credentials, you're taking on more than you might realize. Here are a few things that can (and often do) go wrong:

  • Property damage without coverage – If paint spills, ladders fall, or equipment scratches surfaces, you could be stuck paying for the repair.
  • Injury liability – If a painter is injured on your property and isn’t covered by worker’s comp, you may be legally responsible for medical costs.
  • No legal recourse – Without a licensed agreement, it’s harder to enforce timelines, warranties, or quality standards if the work is subpar.
  • Insurance issues – Your homeowners insurance may not cover damage caused by unlicensed labor.


What looks like savings upfront can quickly become one of the most expensive decisions you make as a homeowner.


Why Homeowners in Madison Trust Thrift Painting

We’re not just professional painters—we’re accountable, transparent contractors who take pride in doing the job right. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • State-recognized licensing and compliance with all legal standards
  • Full liability and worker’s compensation coverage for your protection
  • Clear estimates, timelines, and contracts—no surprises
  • Experienced crews with real training—not seasonal labor or gig workers


Whether we’re painting a kitchen wall, a full home exterior, or a new commercial space, we bring the same level of care and responsibility to every project.



Choose Smart. Choose Safe. Choose Licensed.

If you’re planning to paint your home or business, don’t settle for risk disguised as a discount. Work with a painting company that’s qualified, insured, and trusted across the Madison area.


Contact Thrift Painting today for a quote and experience the peace of mind that comes from hiring professionals who stand behind their work—legally, financially, and ethically.

newly painted two-tone wall
By Scott Jaeger May 14, 2025
Interior Paint Finishes Explained: Flat, Eggshell, Satin, and More
newly painted Madison home
By Scott Jaeger April 8, 2025
Eco-Friendly Paint Options for a Healthier Madison Home
paint brush painting a home exterior
By Scott Jaeger March 7, 2025
How Often Should You Repaint Your Home’s Exterior?
Show More