While different factors may affect the lifespan of your windows, in many cases, they can last for over 20 years. Depending on where you live and how well you maintain them, your windows may last for a shorter or longer span of time.
In any case, there comes a time when you’ll need to replace them. And when that time comes, you want to be ready with the proper knowledge to hire the right people for the job.
If you’re thinking of hiring window installers in the near future, then you need to read this article. We’ll give you 9 important questions to ask before hiring them.
1. Are You Accredited by FENSA?
FENSA is a scheme that’s approved by the government, which means there are strict regulations that are enforced.
When you want to hire a window installer, you need to ensure that they’re accredited by FENSA. This means they are completely compliant for replacing windows and as a result, you’re getting a contractor that won’t put the structure of your home at risk.
2. How Many Years of Experience Do You Have?
Another important thing you should look at is how much experience a company has. They may be accredited by FENSA and have proper training, but there are some things you only learn while on the job.
Obviously, the more years in business a window installer has been in, the better. Not only does this mean they’ve most likely run across a similar (or identical) scenario as yours, but it also means they’ll get it done quicker.
3. What Have Previous Customers Said About Your Work?
The next thing you should look at is what previous customers have to say about the installer’s services and workmanship. Nowadays, you can go online and quickly find testimonials.
However, you should still ask window installers this question, as their answer will be very telling. If they’re hesitant in providing customer testimonials, then this might be a red flag.
4. Do You Have a Portfolio?
Not only should you check what previous customers have to say, but you should see the quality of work done on previous jobs as well.
If the window installer is proud of the work they do, you’ll be able to easily find pictures of their previous work on their website.
Again, like with the previous question, you should ask this one anyway. If the contractor won’t show you evidence of previous work, then this might be a red flag as well.
5. How Much Do You Charge?
Let’s say you’re very interested in hiring a window installer. Then you want to be very clear on how much they charge for their services.
Not only does this help you budget better, but it also gives you a ballpark to compare other estimates with. This is also another opportunity to see if more warning signs pop up, as any reputable company will be upfront about costs with you.
6. Do You Have Insurance?
All window installation companies must have insurance. When on the job, the workers are usually dealing with potentially hazardous situations and materials.
Should anything happen, you want to make sure both you and the business are covered. Insurance is exactly what will take care of any injuries or damages done to your property.
It won’t be enough to just ask this question; ask for proof as well. Any hesitation or unwillingness to show proof here is a huge red flag you shouldn’t ignore.
7. Do You Have a Workmanship Warranty?
In most cases, window installers will offer workmanship warranties. This makes sense, considering if they’re proud of the work they do, then they should have full confidence in it lasting.
For example, in addition to a workmanship warranty, they may also offer a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee. This can help give you peace of mind that the contractor you go with will provide workmanship that’ll last for years to come.
8. Have You Had Any Court Cases?
Every company will get complaints, so if you see any with the window installation companies you’re interested in, that’s not necessarily a red flag.
Dig deeper though. See if they’ve had to go through any court cases and how they were resolved.
Has this business ever had their license revoked? Why?
How the company resolved these issues will be very telling as to the way they handle business.
9. How Quickly Do You Respond to Inquiries?
The customer should be extremely important to a business. So in addition to being good at what they do, window installers should also be good at making their customers feel taken care of.
A good window installer should aim to always promptly respond to their customers’ questions and concerns. When you reach out to them, you should take note of how long it takes for them to get back to you.
You should also gauge how they treat their customers.
For instance, does it seem like they only care about their bottom line? Do they leave your enquiries unresponded to for long periods of time? Do they throw up walls and are unwilling to provide you with information that you requested?
A good contractor will be completely open and willing to help you with your needs.
Make Sure You Hire Trustworthy Window Installers
With these 9 questions in mind, you’ll have a better chance of hiring window installers who will not only get the job done right, but also provide great customer service.
Should anything go wrong, you want someone you can rely on to get the repairs done promptly. This is why you should hire Apex Windows! We have over 31 years of experience in the industry and can answer all of your questions and concerns confidently.
Need window installation services in the Welwyn Garden City area? Then get in touch with us now!