DOUBLE
GLAZING
Double Glazing is one of the
most expensive home improvements you can carry out. It is big
business for the industry with hundreds of firms competing with
each other for your money. Understandably, it’s very difficult
for the consumer to know which glazier to choose to carry out
the work, or what to do if things go wrong.
Getting a quotation
The contract
Contract checklist
The law and your rights
Payment
Where you stand on...
Cancellation rights
Passing trade
Can I afford it?
Read before signing
What to do if things go wrong
How to complain successfully
Contacts
GETTING A QUOTATION
Before you commit yourself to spending a lot of money, decide exactly what
you want. It is a good idea to visit several double glazing firms. Many
now have showrooms. You can then speak to a sales person who will explain
the particular features of their type of window. Once you have decided
on the type of frame, glass and opening mechanisms get quotations from
at least 3 firms. Once you have on these check out:
|
|
the quality
of the Company’s work. Ask for addresses of installations
which they have carried out in your area
|
|
|
if a local
surveyor or trade organisation eg National House Building
Association will recommend any particular company
|
|
|
if you can
choose the type and design of window
|
|
|
if the
windows carry any standards such as BSI Number
|
|
|
if the
installers are covered by any Codes of Practice, or are members
of any trade organisations such as the Glass and Glazing
Federation
|
|
|
make it clear that you
want a firm quotation rather than an estimate
|
|
|
don’t be pressurised
into signing a contract to get an early order discount
|
THE CONTRACT
You should always get a written contract for major improvement
work. Read the terms of the contract carefully and discuss
any points which you may feel
unhappy about or don’t understand. A contract may be amended to suit
you if necessary.
CONTRACT CHECKLIST
The contract should include
|
|
a description
to the work to be done
|
|
|
the price,
including an hourly rate for extra work inclusive VAT
|
|
|
the materials that are to be supplied in the contract |
|
|
special instructions
- for example, which room you want the glazier to do first |
|
|
any extra jobs that you might want done |
|
|
start date and likely finishing date |
|
|
payment - when and how you should pay |
|
|
exactly what is covered
by the price and what are the extras |
Remember that a contract works
both ways. You are legally bound to pay the agreed price when
the goods and services have been supplied. Check the insurance
cover of the glazing company and inform your insurance company
that the work is being done.
THE LAW AND YOUR RIGHTS
The Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982 provides you with some basic rights.
Firstly you are entitled to expect the work to be carried out to a reasonable
standard i.e. using the skill and expertise you would expect from an experienced
company.
If there are any problems,
ask for them to be sorted out. If they are not rectified, you
can charge the firm the reasonable cost of getting this work
done elsewhere. You may be able to claim for any extra loss of
expense you have incurred.
If you do not agree a price in advance, then the price charged should be reasonable.
You can find out what a reasonable price is by getting estimates from other
companies.
Remember it is always best
to agree a price in advance. Within reason, keep a check on the
work being done. Did it start on time and finish approximately
when planned?
If there is anything you are
unhappy about don’t be afraid to call the manager of the
company immediately to discuss it.
NOTE: Your glazier is also
responsible for any work done by a sub-contractor.
Never sign a satisfaction
note or completion form until you are sure the work has been
done to your satisfaction. It may weaken your case if you have
to complain.
read more...
|
