No one wants the headache of dealing with lawyers when it comes to home improvement. That’s why it’s important to have a written contract before beginning a vinyl window replacement project. Written contracts not only protect the business, but more importantly they protect you as the consumer. Improper installation, long drawn out projects and cost discrepancies can all be avoided if a contract detailing expectations is signed by both parties before the window replacement begins.
Things to Check for When Signing a Contract for Vinyl Window Replacement
If you make sure to check all of these things off your list before you begin your replacement, the project will be smooth sailing.
- Details: No two window replacement jobs are the same so it is critical that you check all the details of your particular project with the product specialist before beginning the job. Specific products being installed, costs and timeframe should all be in writing and any reliable company will provide you with this information. Be wary of window companies that are vague on these details.
- Signatures: Make sure both parties, business and consumer, have signed the contract BEFORE any work begins. This avoids problems down the line as well as sets exact expectations of what the project specifications are. These signatures indicate that you both fully understand what should be delivered, by whom and when.
- Completion Dates: Always show the date by which the work should be completed. If the project has many sections, you may also want to include specific dates by which each section should be completed. Window companies sometimes prioritize larger contracts over smaller ones and as a result, your project may not be at the top of their to-do list. With a written understanding of when the work should be delivered, you can protect yourself from this situation.
- Costs: The type of work being completed as well as all of the associated costs should be detailed in writing before any vinyl window replacement project is begun. This may seem like a no-brainer, but without this information in writing, you may be subject to hidden fees and other unexpected costs.
- Products: Your contract should list all window products that are being provided and their installation configuration. In addition, if the window company carries different brands of windows, make sure that the specific brand that you want is listed. Companies may try to cheat customers and increase their profit margin by installing off-brand or lower quality windows if the specific brand is not in writing.
- Any Questions? Last but not least, don’t hesitate to ask questions and make sure the sales representative goes over all the fine print in a way which makes sense to you before you sign. Vinyl window replacement is a specialized project. As with any specialized project, there may be technical terms that you don’t understand. A good representative from the company should be able to explain all of these details in a clear, understandable manner.
Vinyl window replacement doesn’t have to be complicated. If you make sure to check all of these things off your list, you can protect yourself from frustrating problems. Getting everything in writing and signed from the start is critical to ensure a successful, stress free project.