Top 10 Tips to avoiding the double glazing nightmare we all hear about.
- Go by word of mouth. Friends, relatives, neighbours all are good sources for recommendations. If you’re still stuck, an established firm with a good local presence is probably your best bet.
- Make sure you get a written contract for your double glazing order. Handwritten notes should not be acceptable, make sure it’s on a company headed paper or is a professionally printed contract which contains mulitple copies that both you and the double glazing company keep.
- Don’t be pressured. If you’re getting an aggressive sales pitch from the double glazing salesman, the chances are the company isn’t that concerned with its levels of service and is more interested in the commissions they would earn on the night.
- Don’t accept a door to door salesman. Unsolicited visits from sales people should spell trouble. Reputable double glazing companies do not need to drum up trade this way.
- Know what you want. If you do your research, you’ll be prepared to ask the right questions.
- Be wary of discounts for cash. It might be tempting, but you’re passing up on proof of payment. In terms of protection, your credit card is the safest form of payment as you get protection in the company goes bust before installing your double glazing.
- Do your research. Companies House lets you perform an online check of businesses to check they are not in financial trouble or have previously been in administration.
- Check the lists. Some councils or consumer groups produce ‘reputable traders’ lists. Another great source if you can’t get personal recommendations.
- See for yourself. Choose a company that has a showroom where you can view the quality of the double glazing they are selling.
- Trust your first instinct. If you’re in any doubt about using the double glazing company then you are better looking else where.
Quality double glazing and professional fitting can cost a lot of money – don’t always go for the cheapest price! Saving a few £££’s now may lead to a higher cost if the product fails or you need to have the fitting re-done due to poor workmanship.
To find your nearest Conservatory Outlet dealer – specialists in installing double glazing throughout the UK, visit www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk or freephone 0800 915 8844. They guarantee a friendly design and quotation service and will offer free advice on what is best for your home and budget.
