Hiring a Reputable Contractor

There are certain things you can look for when employing a contractor to reduce your chances of hiring a "Cowboy"...

• Referral from Family and Friends - Recommendation remains one of the most successful ways to hire a contractor, if you are looking to have replacement glazing then ask around, speak to family friends and neighbours to ask what experiences they have had.
• Shop around and always ask for REFERENCES, but more importantly follow these up! Remember that the cheapest quote is not always necessarily the best quote as a good contractor is always in demand. Get at least three estimates (the more the better) and compare the estimates given by different companies so you can see if you are being quoted like for like.
• Get EVERYTHING in writing - any estimates, timeframes should all be agreed in writing, use written contracts and agree on a completion date, this avoids confusion later down the line.
• Ask about what insurance is offered, it is common practice for an installation company to offer protection should it fail to meet its obligations. Do they offer deposit protection? – If your glazing contractor requires that you pay a deposit ensure that you obtain a deposit voucher as proof. Likewise if a deposit is required, are they a member of GGF Fund or do they offer deposit indemnity, available through companies such as GGFi?
  • Is there adequate insurance cover and is their work guaranteed? Any reputable company offers its own guarantee however it is now a legal obligation that all glazing contractors registered with FENSA must now offer insurance backing of the guarantee, this covers your installation should the company cease to trade within the life of that guarantee, also available with companies such as GGFi.
• Always protect advance payment - Some disreputable companies may try to get you to pay cash upfront to secure a 'one time only offer' or 'special deal'; if there is a problem later it is very unlikely you will be able to get this money back without deposit protection. However if you have to and the goods cost more than £100, try to pay by credit card. That way, you can claim against the credit card company if anything should go wrong. Also, never pay the entire bill unless you are completely happy with the work.
• Be extremely cautious of companies that offer to do the job VAT free, if this happens its very likely you may be dealing with a rogue trader. Do not do business with anyone who may claim you need urgent work carried out; they are more then likely illegitimate.