How to Choose a Home Improvement Provider, Part 3: Characteristics to Look For
May 09, 2017When the time comes to choose a provider for your next home improvement project, such as getting a new patio door installed, there are several qualities and characteristics to look for. Careful evaluation will ensure that you find a company or individual who is honest and reliable, with the necessary expertise to ensure that your project runs smoothly and efficiently. Before hiring a provider, make sure that they possess the following three characteristics.
Experience
A good provider will have years of experience, plenty of references, and should not hesitate to produce appropriate documentation of licensing and insurance. It’s best to go with a local company that is already knowledgeable about the construction requirements and building codes in your area, as well as the local climate and how it might affect building materials and practices. The best way to determine a provider’s experience is to take a look at some of their past projects, and talk to and read online reviews from previous customers.
Reliability & Integrity
There is nothing worse than a home improvement company that is consistently late with no explanation, repeatedly changes the timeline of your project, or doesn’t show up when promised. To avoid this headache, look for a local company with a reputation for integrity, that is known for standing by its work. Be sure to follow up on the references given to you by the providers so past customers can share their experiences with you.
Great Communication
If you have a hard time contacting home improvement providers to set up consultations or getting them to respond to your inquiries, that’s a good indication of how it will go throughout your project. Choose a local provider that is easy to reach and responds quickly to messages. Representatives should answer your questions honestly and directly, and be proactive about providing you with information about estimates, contracts, and project start times and deadlines. These are the companies that will listen to your questions and concerns and keep you informed throughout every step of the process. You should not have to track your home improvement provider down to find out how your project is going.
In the fourth and final installment of our series coming out next month, we will go over the importance of carefully reading reviews and going with trusted brands. In the meantime, give Renewal by Andersen of Northeast PA a call at (610) 849-2800 to find out more about our replacement windows and doors and the benefits they offer you and your home.
Learn more about what you can do to protect yourself and those you love from scammers, and learn about why home improvement scams that target the elderly are so prevalent.