Replacing windows of your home might seem like any other task until you realize the substantial investment of time and money that would be spent in having it done. Finding an expert window replacement contractor is no less than searching for a qualified doctor or a car mechanic. There are numerous factors to be evaluated before you weed out the options not meeting your expectations.
During your research, you can easily find an exhaustive list of contractors from the internet and a few recommendations from friends and relatives. But to make sure that you choose the most suitable option for your home improvement project, seek out answers to the below-mentioned list of questions –
Question 1: Where are you located?
This is the most basic information that you must seek to make sure you don’t get stuck in a misleading deal. A contractor with a physical presence is a positive indication and convincing enough to not deal with a scammer.
Question 2: How long have you been in the same line of business?
Hiring a contractor who has been in the industry for a long time builds a solid reputation in the market and a vast pool of knowledge. The experienced contractors are in a better position to offer expert services and satisfactory replacement solutions.
Question 3: What will be the overall cost and time duration of the project?
It is important to check with your contractor if the project involves hourly charges or a flat rate. Various contractors usually charge differently as per the scope of work. For instance, a small task can be charged per hour, whereas a project involving a series of tasks can be paid in a lump sum. Besides, ask for the estimated time duration when the job will be completed and mention it in your written contract.
Question 4: What kind of jobs have you undertaken in the past? Do you have any referrals?
Having a look at the previous work of the prospective contractor can be very helpful in deciding if that contractor will be suitable for your project or not. So, make sure you ask for the contractor’s work portfolio to verify the authenticity and professionalism. You may straightway request the references or can also do online research and check clients’ reviews and ratings. This will give you a better insight into the contractor’s ethics, punctuality, flexibility, and quality of services.
Question 5: Do you carry mandate licenses, certifications, and insurance?
Generally, all window replacement contractors must have proper licenses to undertake renovation projects and operate in the community. A contractor duly certified by the local government can assure you that reliable and quality services as licenses are only handed over to them after providing proper training. But, beware of bogus contractors out there who tend to lie about their certification and confirm about them from the concerned authorities before finalizing one. Additionally, make sure the contractor carries liability insurance to keep you protected from all sorts of future liabilities.