Perform an Internet search of plasterers in your area

The Internet is a great resource to find plastering services in your general area. You may even be able to read reviews from former customers. While many general contractors may offer plastering services, they may not specialize in it. For example, if you are looking to get extensive detailed stucco work done, your best bet would be to find a plastering contractor who specializes in stucco plastering.

I recommend: The Operative Plasterers' and Cement Masons' International Association has local unions in just about every part of the country.  Search the BigLabor.com website to find one in your area. Service Magic takes all of the details of your project and refers you to pre-screened contractors. Signature Contractors will give you the names of plaster and stucco contractors in your area.

Research the permits and records of plastering companies

Ask any person ripped off by a contractor what one of their biggest regrets was, and they are likely to tell you they didn't research enough. Consumers are "savvier" these days, but that doesn't mean that every victim performed exhaustive research into a prospective plasterer.

I recommend: It is important to know if your state requires a special license, or any contractor license at all, to call themselves a plastering business. The Contractor’s License Reference Site lets you select a state and get a listing of all the license requirements for contractors in that state. Ask former customers and the plaster contractor himself if you can see examples of work. Don’t settle for just one example either. Even one unhappy customer is a red flag. A great place to check for reviews, both good and bad, is Angie's List.

Collect at least 4 estimates from prospective plasterers and don't assume anything

You want to get the best deal possible and contractors know this. Beware of estimates that seem too good to be true. It is important to gather as much information as you can ahead of time so you have a ballpark figure in your head of what the job will cost. Many times a stucco contractor will want to show you a lower price, so he won't include everything in the estimate, such as the cost of disposing of the refuse, container rental or specific licenses you may need to have the work performed.

I recommend: The BetterPlasteringContractors.com website matches you up with plasterers in your area who will give you free, no obligation estimates. Remodelers-Online.com lets you submit information about your job to receive no-obligation quotes from contractors in your area. Just type in your zip code to find your area website, click on “consumer information” and request an e-quote. CostEstimator.com will provide you with highly accurate project estimates. They also offer a free 30-day trial run. That should be plenty of time to get the plastering information that you need to make an informed decision.