So you’re looking for a company to install new windows or doors? Well, it can be a lot like looking for a new employee. You are in charge here and it’s important that you’re making the best decisions possible for your home. You don’t owe the contractors anything unless you’ve signed an agreement, so before that happens, be sure that you’re making the best choices.
Check out these suggested questions to ask your window or door contractors. Make sure you’re educated before the job begins so you know what to look out for and how to handle possible upcoming challenges. You’re not just installing windows or doors, you’re making a real investment in your home and that’s worth taking very seriously.
1. Does The Company Provide Their Own Insurance?
Any installer or contractor should invariably show up with detailed liability insurance to protect the both of you in the unlikely instance of an on-site accident. It’s definitely okay to assume that they’ve come prepared with the proper insurance behind them, but always make sure to ask just in case. There are a number of reasons a contractor may not be equipped with insurance, and each of the reasons can be interpreted as a red flag. Some reasons a contractor doesn’t come with their own insurance can include: they cant’ afford it, they’re not full time, they’re new to the industry etc. If they don’t have insurance, it might not be the best fit for your project.
2. What’s Their Detailed Estimate Or Cost Proposal?
By the time the contractor shows up to the job you should have an excellent idea of how much the project is going to cost. Ask about fees right away, from the very first phone call. Many businesses will offer you a quote over the phone or after a first inspection. If you’re not sure it’s the best cost for the project, you can always shop around to get a sense of what other companies are charging for the same work.
In short, an estimate is something you will ask for right away. Make sure you find out about all costs associated with the contract and not just the preliminary costs. What are your options? Can you lessen the financial strain in any way? Is there anything you don’t need?
3. What Is Their Choice Of Product?
Have you been offered a choice of quality? Was there a price difference between these options? Are you fully understanding what materials are being proposed for the project, and were you given other options?
4. What’s Their Schedule Like?
Are you able to ask for the dates and times that work best for you? Do you have a busy workweek? Find out what their timelines are like before you agree to anything. Your schedule is what matters most, so don’t allow anyone to bully you into a timeline that negatively affects your work life or personal life. The right company or contractor will make it work when it works for you.
5. What Are The Manufacture Warranty Specifications?
Make sure to understand what the contract or agreement you’ve drafted means and entails. Read the fine print and ask any questions you might have about the warranty and how it relates to the installation and labour/workmanship. You might be surprised by what’s missing. Don’t be afraid to ask about language you don’t understand. Legal language can be a little confusing and it’s important you understand what you’re signing.
6. What Happens In The Case Of An Issue Or Complaint?
Do they have a history of court cases? Have they ever had their license suspended? Try to figure out how your contractor tackles these sort of problems when the time comes around. You can even request a referral from a job that handled a complaint. Problems have the possibility of happening no matter what industry you’re working with, but what matters is how a business or contractor handles these sort of obstacles.
Do you need to replace any of the windows or doors in your home? NorthShield has you covered. Call us today for a free, no obligation quote on your new windows or doors! NorthShield is Canada’s premier window and door installation service, offering the best and most reasonable rates you’ll find.
Contact us today for more information:
NorthShield
Windows & Doors Inc.
Winnipeg (204) 272-3725
Toronto (905) 326-3444