Window Buyer’s Bill of Rights

Don’t get ripped off when buying windows.  Here are some rights and courtesies you can expect:

I. You Have the Right to a Fair Price

Replacement windows are a highly competitive industry. If you don’t like the price, feel free to haggle or move onto another company.

II. You Have the Right to Clear Information

Salespeople may cloud the big issues with gimmicks, charts, videos, and props. Demand clear verbal or written information.

III. You Have the Right to a Convenient, Hassle-Free Pitch

Set an appointment time that is right for you, not them. Clarify your time limit for the salesperson. If you don’t, they may take up your entire day.

IV. You Have the Right Not to Be Cross-Sold

Many window companies try to sell you on other products–vinyl siding, gutters, fences, and doors. Clarify that you are only interested in replacement windows.

V. You Have the Right to a Solid Estimate

This is not brain surgery. These companies do this all the time and should be able to anticipate any “problems” they may encounter at the time of installation.

VI. You Have the Right to Fast Installation

Full-house installations can take as little as two days. Do not let the company extend installation over a weekend or holiday. No windows should ever be boarded up in mid-installation.

VII. You Have the Right to a Seamless, Continuous Installation

The installers should not “take a break” from your installation for a couple of days to work on another job. Your job should continue seamlessly and continuously. That is not to say that the window company cannot take valid breaks due to highly inclement weather or unusual situations (in which case, they still need to seal up your house and return as soon as humanly possible). And of course, lunch breaks and tinkle breaks for the boys are expected.

VIII. You Have the Right to a Clean House

Installers must lay down drop-cloths both indoors and outdoors when removing old windows and installing new windows. Installers must wipe off smudges from walls, trim, etc. Installers must broom-clean each window area after removing the drop-cloth.

IX. You Have the Right to an Undamaged House

Compared to other home renovation projects, window replacement is smooth. However, when the old windows are removed, there may be minor damage to the window sill, frame, and trim. This damage should not be extensive. In no case should the company have to remove any of these window components.