How to prepare your home for painters

A short checklist to make the job faster and smoother.

A painter smiling while rolling paint onto a wall

September 15, 2026 · 2 min read · By Pulkit Homes

Quick answerBefore painters arrive, clear the walls, move small items and furniture, empty closets that will be painted, plan for pets and parking, and decide your colours.

A little preparation before the crew arrives saves time and helps the job go smoothly. Here is a simple checklist.

Key takeaways
  • Clear the walls
  • Move small items and furniture
  • Empty closets that will be painted
  • Plan for pets and people
  • Parking and access
  • Decide colours early

Clear the walls

Take down pictures, mirrors and shelves, and remove nails if you can. Keep small hardware together in a bag.

Move small items and furniture

Clear surfaces and move small furniture out of the room. Pull larger pieces toward the middle of the room, away from the walls.

Empty closets that will be painted

If closet interiors are part of the job, empty them so the walls are reachable.

Plan for pets and people

Keep pets in a safe room and let everyone in the home know when the work is happening. Open windows when weather allows to help the paint dry and the smell clear.

Parking and access

Make sure the crew can park close by and get in easily. Let them know about gate codes or building rules ahead of time.

Decide colours early

Have your colours chosen before the first day. Changing your mind once work has started can add time and cost.

Quick questions

Do I need to move all my furniture?

No. Clear small items and pull larger pieces toward the middle of the room. We will tell you what else to prepare.

Can I stay home while the work is done?

Usually yes. Keep pets in a safe room and open windows when weather allows.

We will tell you exactly what to prepare when we confirm your estimate.

Keep reading

More articles

More articles

Get your painting estimate today

Choose your rooms, add trim and doors, and see your price in minutes.

Call (780) 604-3162
Call