“Don’t Tell My Manager”: Window Scams and Tactics to Avoid

​We hear a lot of stories from current and prospective customers about experiences with other contractors and “sales companies” in the window game.  We believe that being an informed consumer is the best approach to achieving your goals and avoiding unsavory situations with window “contractors” and sales first window companies.  This article highlights some of the things to do and not to do based on our experiences in the market.

Things to Avoid
 
A.High-pressure sales tactics and inflated pricing that magically shrinks
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Some window companies employ salespeople who are just that – sales, people.  They are often times minimally trained and really have little, if any interest in windows or the result a

homeowner is trying to achieve.  These types of folks are driven by one thing only, making a sale.  There is a saying: “If you are a hammer, everything looks like a nail.”  So, we get it that salespeople are there to sell and that is their job. ​

​However, the sales process happens naturally if the focus is to help the homeowner achieve their goals.  If you are involved in a conversation with a salesperson who seems like they are going through the motions or using a scripted sales pitch, walk away.  The same applies if they are not knowledgeable about what window type(s) might be best for your application and what options and potential alternatives will achieve your goals.
 
Along the same lines, if a window salesperson provides an estimate on the spot that seems quite high, and then after some expression of surprise or push back from the homeowner, the price magically drops significantly, this is a red flag.  We’ve heard numerous stories of starting prices that drop by 40% at the end of the sales appointment and of salespeople offering manager special discounts or other “specials” that are not normal.
 
These tactics can be signs of a “sales first” mentality and approach.  These companies should be avoided.
 
B.Little or no information regarding product specifications, ratings, or warranties
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If you are speaking to someone about windows, make sure they have (or can readily access) information about product specifications, ratings, warranties, and the like.  If the person to whom you are speaking is confused or evasive about details such as warranties or product quality, you may not end up getting the most out of this experience and could get scammed.  Windows are a significant investment for homeowners and not something to purchase lightly.  Because of this, gaining comfort with the window company representative is critical, including that person’s knowledge and confidence in the product they are selling.
 
 
C.Lack of insurance, workers’ compensation coverage, and reviews

General liability business insurance, workers’ compensation coverage, and customer reviews are three critical topics that should be considered carefully before you make a decision to hire someone to install windows.  If you are working with someone on a window replacement estimate, request a copy of their general liability business insurance certificate and make sure it is current.  Also, ask for a certificate showing valid workers compensation coverage.  Here in Ohio, workers compensation is managed and covered by the State of Ohio.  Lastly, go online and search for reviews.  Any reputable company will have all of these things in place and should be more than happy to share this with you.  If they don’t or if they are evasive, this is a red flag.
 
D.Unclear, missing, or inconsistent branding

In addition to things like insurance and workers’ compensation coverage, reputable, professional companies use consistent and quality branding on their websites, social media, company vehicles, and paperwork.
 
The so called “fly-by-night” operations often use generic forms, estimates, and other unbranded assets (think of the old pick-up truck with the removable magnetic sign applied crookedly) when trying to avoid contact later.  Inconsistent branding or generic forms with little or no contact information are signs of trouble ahead.  Stay away.
 
E.Unwritten agreements

Look for a contractor that will provide a written agreement as to the products being installed, the scope of work, and other details to ensure that everyone is on the same page.  If someone is unwilling to provide this or wants to just have a “handshake” agreement, because that’s how they’ve always done business, steer clear. 
 
Reputable companies should insist on having the estimate and agreement in writing up front and signed by both parties.  This protects everyone and provides a written record of the work and products agreed to.
 
F.Physical address and location

It would be very difficult to operate a reputable window business without a physical place of business.  If you are dealing with someone who only has a post office box, has no dedicated phone number, and does not provide a dedicated business address, be wary.  Although some small businesses that become large and successful start in someone’s garage, this is a potential area of concern when hiring someone to replace your windows and do your research.
 
The best practice here is to insist on this and verify that there is a physical place of business.

Before hiring someone to perform work on your house, including window replacement, make sure you’ve done your homework on the company, ask for proof of insurance, and pay attention to clues like missing branding and high-pressure sales tactics.
 
We are happy to answer questions, develop a relationship with you, and provide a no-pressure free estimate, so please contact us today!