After a storm, filing an insurance claim to repair or replace your windows can be stressful. Finding a reliable and trustworthy window contractor is your first step in repairing post-storm damage. An experienced contractor will help you throughout the claims process with your insurance company, and ensure that your home is restored to its original condition as quickly as possible.
How to Find a Reliable Window Contractor
Modernize now offers homeowners a free, digital Contractor Checklist as a simple, step-by-step guide to assist with your windows project.
The homeowner insurance claim process is usually prompted by an emergency repair. To restore the comfort, safety, and privacy of your home, you will need to have the repair or replacement done as soon as possible.
That’s why you’ll want to find a contractor you can trust — a local professional who can get the job done quickly and assist with your claims process:
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- Ask trusted sources (friends, family, and neighbors) for a referral.
- Contact your local Better Business Bureau.
- Connect with trusted window contractors in your area with Modernize.
Vet Your Contractors
It’s important to find a reliable windows contractor so that your repair or replacement can be done as quickly as possible. To determine the best professional fit for your window project:
- Request quotes from three to four contractors in your area.
- Visit the website of each contractor.
- Is it updated and professional looking?
- Explore the customer reviews for each contractor.
- Are they mostly positive? Consider negative reviews and responses.
- Ask each windows contractor on the phone the following questions:
- How long have you been in business?
- How much experience do you have with window repair or installation?
- What is your project estimate?
- Can you provide a list of references?
- Can you provide proof of insurance for personal liability, worker’s compensation, and property damage coverage?
After obtaining three or four written estimates and vetting each of your potential contractors, you are ready to meet with and present the estimates to your insurance adjuster. An appointment with your adjuster is part of the insurance claim process. Your project quotes will guide the cost of your repair or replacement and will be necessary for your insurance adjuster to approve the contractor’s work.
Meet With Your Top Contractors
Meet in-person with your top contractors to review project-specific details and expectations. We have created a free worksheet to help homeowners compare contractors. Be sure to discuss the following with each contractor:
- Ask for proof of insurance, which should provide their insurance company name, policy number, and policy limits.
- Discuss who will manage warranty details and responsibility.
- Make sure to get a fixed price before signing a contract.
Be Aware of Warning Signs
Unfortunately, there is a small percentage of contractors who are not honest professionals. Many of these door-to-door contractors flock to areas impacted by storms, and scam unsuspecting homeowners with offers that boast pre-payment or covered deductibles.
The best way to avoid scams is to choose a local, trusted contractor. You can confirm this by checking their physical business address and validating their licensing.
Here are additional warning signs to keep in mind:
- Avoid contractors who request the entire project cost, or large cash deposit, up front.
- Avoid anyone who pressures you to sign a contract immediately.
- Be wary of any outliers in your quotes. All estimates should be relatively similar unless the material type is significantly different.
Prepare for Your Final Contractor Meeting
At the final meeting, there a few steps to go over before the window contractor begins your project.
- Reconfirm your initial quote.
- Agree upon a payment plan.
- Obtain a paper trail of the following:
- Your contract
- Project plans
- Order changes
- Bills and invoices
- Proof of insurance and/or permitting, and
- Contractor correspondence
Find the Right Contractor for Your Windows Project
Whether you’re ready to begin your project now or need some expert advice, our network of contractors are here to help. With a few simple questions, we’ll find the best local professionals for you
