Get Advice From Your Trusted Local Installers
Ask for References
A local installer that is serious about their work and reputation will be more than happy to provide you with references from past clients. Ask for a full list of references and then make sure to follow up by calling them to talk about their experience working with the contractor. This will give you a chance to gauge how they communicated expectations and deadlines, what the quality of the workmanship was like, and whether or not the client was pleased with the overall outcome.
If a reference says they would hire the contractor again for another project, you can take that as a good sign. However, if they wouldn’t, it might be an indication that the contractor didn’t meet the quality standards you expect for your home. Ask the references what specific things were lacking in their experience with the contractor so that you can avoid similar issues on your own.
It’s also a good idea to ask the contractors for photos of previous projects they have completed. These will help you get a sense of the contractors’ aesthetic, which is important when choosing an impact window installation company. You may even want to visit the projects in person if possible, which will allow you to assess the craftsmanship and ask any additional questions you have about the finished product.
When evaluating potential contractors, it’s also worth asking about the suppliers they use. Contractors who work with big box stores are likely to have their supply chain limited by the store’s logistics chains, which can limit their ability to match your needs and may also mean higher costs. Local installers, on the other hand, will usually be able to offer more specialized solutions at more competitive prices.
Additionally, many local installers will be able to offer more support in terms of troubleshooting and maintenance once the job is complete. This can be a huge benefit if something goes wrong during the process.
Look for Certifications
When evaluating your local installer choices, be sure to check for certifications. These can indicate whether they are experienced, knowledgeable and trustworthy. “If a company is certified, it means they follow certain licensing frameworks,” Jones-Albertus said. For example, a CHANCE Certified Installer has completed rigorous classroom and field training, and is a true expert in helical foundation repair/installation projects. This also allows them to offer our 30-year product warranty.
Additionally, a CHANCE Certified Installer has passed background checks and is not a door-to-door salesman. This helps you feel safe and confident in the work being done on your home. You may even be eligible for rebates and discounts if you choose a certified installer. These can include everything from boiler upgrade schemes to Home Energy Scotland loans.
Get Multiple Quotes
Whether the project is small or large, homeowners should always shop around for quotes before hiring someone. In addition to providing them with a better sense of the pricing options, this also allows the homeowner to evaluate contractors in a way that they might not have been able to during an in-person meeting. For example, if a contractor is not willing to provide a quote that includes all the materials necessary for the job, this should be seen as a red flag.
In the case of a home security system installation, shopping for quotes will also help homeowners see how different contractors approach the same project. For instance, a homeowner may notice that one installer includes extra items in their quote that aren’t included in the others. This could be a sign of trying to take advantage of the homeowner, or it could simply be that this particular contractor has years of experience that have taught them what works best for each project.
Homeowners can also use their quotes to leverage a potential contractor into lowering their price. For example, if a contractor’s quote is significantly higher than the other competitors, the homeowner can show them the other quotes and ask them to lower their price. This can be a great way to save money on an important project while still finding a quality professional to do the work.
When it comes to hiring a professional to install a home security system, taking the time to get multiple quotes will ultimately save both money and headaches in the long run. By following these tips, homeowners can find an experienced, trustworthy local installer to complete the job and protect their families and property.