Home improvements such as new windows, doors or a conservatory are a big decision. Depending on what you want to do, they can be a big expense, while you will want any work carried out on your home to be done correctly, so, in the long run, there are no problems down the line. You must trust the installation company you decide to hand over your home to. Before you start on the work you want carried out, you must make sure you do your due diligence and enlist the help of an expert installer for your home to get the end result you want. Here is a list of questions you should ask your window installer before you partner with them to carry out your home improvement project.
- How long have you been in business?
Experience certainly helps when you choose an installer to carry out improvements on your home. A long-standing installer with years of experience will have more in-depth product and fitting knowledge. Making sure you employ an installer with a proven track record and the right amount of experience on what you want done, such as a single-storey extension or conservatory, will make the job run smoothly.
- What accreditations do you have?
Your home is the biggest thing you own; it’s a long-term investment that you want to make sure increases in value. That’s why you must make sure you are getting the highest standard of craftsmanship available and that the products being installed, and the company installing them, are accredited by the relevant industry bodies, such as FENSA and Trustmark. A home improvement company that has won both industry and business awards will also mean you are working with the right installer.
- Where can I find reviews of your work?
Don’t just take your installer’s word for it, make sure you know what other customers have said about their service and standard of work. Any installer should offer full transparency and direct you to any customer reviews online at the likes of TrustPilot or Trusted Trader. It is a good idea to weigh up both the positive and negative comments and customer references from previous work so you can make an informed decision.
- Do you have a local showroom I can visit?
You must see any products you want for your home, so you can see and feel them. A showroom adds credibility to an installer as it allows you to see the products you want firsthand before you decide to buy. A showroom also allows you to get the right advice from knowledgeable and experienced staff.
- Do you have any finance payment plans?
As home improvements can be expensive, finding help to pay for them will make things easier. Reliable installers will offer clear finance payment plans and be able to advise you on the best option for you and your budget. It will mean that you will be able to spread the cost of your installation for a greater level of financial flexibility.
- Will I need planning permission for my project?
You do not normally need planning permission to change your windows and doors, while extensions such as conservatories and orangeries are covered by permitted development rights if certain things are met. However, the home improvements you decide to make may require planning permission. A local installer will have experience with local properties in your area just like yours and will be able to advise you with all the right planning and local regulations information.
- How long do installations typically take?
Home improvements can be disruptive, and while installers will do all they can to limit any disturbance during the installation process, it can be a stressful time from start to finish. The type of installation and size of the project will determine its duration, but an installer should be able to give you a schedule of work and indication of a finish date – and keep you informed every step of the way to help make things as smooth as possible.
- How do you dispose of the old frames?
Most uPVC from old windows and doors can be recycled, so find out how your installer will dispose of yours during your window installation project. Make sure that you only use an installer who recycles old frames.
- Do you offer post-installation support?
With every installation, there’s always a risk of something not working quite how it should. That’s why it’s essential to choose an installer who has a dedicated aftercare service that can provide repairs and advice after the completion of the project.
- Do you offer an insurance-backed guarantee?
A comprehensive guarantee on products and installations will provide you with financial protection. A reliable installer will offer an insurance-backed guarantee when carrying out any installation to give you peace of mind.
SEH BAC – a local installer you can trust.
With more than 50 years of experience installing to homes across the South East, at SEH BAC we have relied on word-of-mouth and referrals for business for over five decades and thanks to our work and customer service we have a 4.6 out of 5-star review rating on Trustpilot. As a local company, we are familiar with the different types of property in your area and local planning guidelines, and you can visit one of our 11 showrooms across the South East. We are a multi-award winning and sustainable company and accredited by the relevant industry bodies, while our finance options include buy now pay later – and two-years interest-free credit. Our customer app allows customers to keep track of the state of their order throughout the whole process. To start your home improvement journey and get the dream home you want, whether it’s replacement windows, replacement doors or a new single-storey extension, contact our experienced team today – and get the answers to the right questions you need to ask.
