In light of the tragedy in Needham this past week, our practice of thoroughly researching the history of potential employees is farsighted.  Below is an older blog that speaks to the need for this due diligence on the part of all contractors.

"One of the challenges to establishing a brand is combating stereotypes that prevail in the marketplace.

In our industry, the image of the professional painter is almost derogatory. Technical merit aside, the customary perception involves poorly trained fellows clad in paint-spattered jeans and t-shirts, acting with a minimum of courtesy, prone to drinking, and often moonlighting from their ‘regular' jobs. Upon reflection, it is remarkable that we allow such workmen onto our property and into our homes. Have you ever opened your door to a professional service company only to be met with a ‘technician' who somehow doesn't fit the image the company presents in its advertising?

With the bar set so low, how can a company that aspires to professionalism not be able to surpass the ‘norm'? At Catchlight, Inc, we have taken our customer's expectations and exceeded them in every way possible.

Consider;

We DO drug test;
We DO check criminal history using the MA CORI profile;
We DO require and review legal work documents;
We DO expect all employees to be able to communicate effectively in English;
We DO train, test, train and review our employees;
We DO hire employees, not use subcontractors in violation of IRS and DET regulations;
We DO provide, free of charge, uniforms and safety equipment;
We DO provide company owned and insured vehicles to each foreman and ensure all company errands and trips are made in our vehicles;
We DO train employees on the hazards of lead-based paint;
We DO provide health and retirement benefits, sick and vacation pay.

Why do we do this? Such protocols and benefits certainly add overhead to our company. We do this because we enjoy the peace of mind it brings us as well as the professionalism it projects. But we especially value the peace of mind it brings our customers.

If you can think of anything we are not doing, please let us know. We would love to hear from you."

Sincerely,

Nigel Costolloe
President
Catchlight, Inc.
A professional company, passionate about painting.