25 June 2017
 Categories: , Blog

Before they install windows, window installation crews have a lot of prep work to do. Homeowners who hire window installation companies also have preparatory work. If you're considering hiring a company to put new windows in your home, you'll first want to review these documents.

The Company's Insurance Certificate

First, you should ask to see the window installation company's insurance certificate. On the certificate, you'll find the name of the company and the dates that the policy provides coverage for. With these two items, an insurance certificate serves as proof that a company is insured. You can see what company the policy insures and make sure they policy's still effective.

It's important to hire a company that has insurance because hiring one that's not insured can leave you dangerously exposed to risk. If an employee is injured while installing windows in your home and the company is fully insured, the company's insurance policy should cover the employee's injuries. If the company isn't insured, though, the employee might file a claim against your homeowners insurance to pay for their injuries.

Most established window installation companies have insurance, and any reputable company will be happy to furnish a hard copy of their certificate or email you a scanned copy.

The Window Installation Contract

Second, you'll need to review the window installation contract carefully. Make sure you understand everything in the contract, because it'll outline the details of the work to be done and the cost of the project. Pay particular attention to:

• the total cost of the window installation work
• how much of a deposit is required, and when it must be paid
• when the remaining balance is due
• when the work will be completed
• what grade of windows will be used

If you have any questions about these items or anything else in your contract, just ask the window installation company for clarification. They'll be happy to explain the details of the agreement.

Any Better Business Bureau Certificate

Finally, ask about the company's standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). The most respected companies not only will be members of the BBB, but they'll have one or more certificates from the bureau. These certificates are awarded to businesses that provide consistent and quality service, and you can trust a business that has several years worth of certificates. Their rating with the BBB will be high, and they've demonstrated a commitment to meeting and exceeding customers' expectations.