TEN POINT GUIDE TO CHOOSING A COMPANY TO REPLACE YOUR ROOF-LINE TIMBERS
Always ask friends and family to recommend companies they have used and have been satisfied with their workmanship and service. Failing that ensure you use a company you know has a good reputation.
Never buy from someone who knocks on your door unless you are absolutely sure of their credentials. If in doubt ask for proof of their companies status i.e. address, land line number.
Check with your local Trading Standards if you have any suspicions, they will be only too happy to advise you.
Always insist on getting a written quotation which details the price and exactly what you will get for your hard earned money. It is very easy for someone to promise you the earth and then deny it at a later date if questioned. A professional company will always be only too pleased to give you a full written quote and specification.
Don't be pressured into buying. If you are offered a so called 'DEAL' to make a decision on the day of the quote, only make that decision if you are absolutely confident it is a good deal and you know and trust the company or individual offering it.
Take time to think, many companies build in false discounts in order to make you feel you are getting a good deal. In most cases this is just a sales tactic to get you to buy there and then. If they are confident they are offering good value for money they should be happy to let you think about it and compare it with other quotations.
By getting all of your quotes in writing with a full specification of work to be carried out and materials to be used, it gives you the opportunity to compare exactly what each company is offering in your own time without pressure.
Insist on a written contract. A contract is there to protect both the buyer and the seller. It should detail as best as possible the work that has to be carried out, the materials to be used and a firm price for the work detailed. It should also have the companies address, contact details, VAT number (if applicable), company registration number( if applicable).
Insist on a seven day 'Stautory right to cancel notice'. If you sign a contract for home improvements in your house, the law gives you seven days to change your mind. When you sign a contract at home you should be given a 'Statutory right to cancel notice'.
Ensure any contract you sign contain the companies 'Terms and Conditions of sale' and clearly states what deposit (if any) and stage payments (if any) you would be expected to pay and when. If you insist on a contract as outlined above, you will be in a much stronger position should anything go wrong with the job.