Prior to any replacement window work, both parties need to agree on a contract (or work order). These contracts protect both the homeowner and installers from any problems that may arise, and also spells out up front exactly what you should expect from your contractor throughout the scope of the project.
Bottom Line: A good contract is worth it’s weight in gold.
(Always collect 3 to 4 additional bids)
Bill — Site Editor
Basics Of Replacement Windows Contract
You need to have some basic info on it. This includes the name, address and phone number of you and the contractor, as well as the date that it is being signed and put into effect. It should indicate any other information about the contractor’s business (is it a corporation, a sole proprietorship, etc?) and should clearly stipulate that the contractor is not your employee, but is rather an independent contractor for hire. Information about subcontractors and/or suppliers should also be clearly stated, and proof should be provided (in writing) that the contractor has paid them in full for their services and/or materials.
Replacement Windows Contract – Scope of Work
This is the meat of the document. When done right, the work order will include measurements, materials (including manufacturers, styles, and quantities), how many people will be working on the job, and any other relevant information to the project. Further, the work order will indicate how any changes will be handled. Any changes will be signed by both parties. This might include changes to materials, cost for the replacements, time frames, etc. Change orders serve as amendments to the original written contract.
Dates For Completion
It should have start and anticipated end dates. It should also have other dates or deadlines if the scope of the project is large or the process is lengthy. This better insures that the work will be completed in a timely manner. You may want to include incentives or penalties if certain deadlines are or are not met.
Materials
Materials used should be included to avoid confusion. Descriptions should include the manufacturer’s name, style number, order number, color, size, and any other relevant information.
Damages
A contract should clearly state who is responsible for damages that occur during the scope of the project and how those damages will be handled. Contractors should be responsible for any damage that occurs to your property as a result of work done.
Storage and Cleanup
Let’s talk materials. If the windows and/or doors arrive prior to the install date, the contract should detail where they will be stored and what to do in case of fire, water damage, theft, etc. Also, the work order must detail that the company is responsible for disposing of all trash. Often, the company charges for this service, which is reasonable.
Permits, Codes and Regulations
If there are any permits, building codes or zoning regulations that must be obtained or adhered to, it should be explicitly stated who is responsible for obtaining those permits or adhering to the proper regulations (in most cases, this should be the contractor’s responsibility).
Payment Schedule
Agree to a payment schedules in writing. Never pay 100% up front. Instead, go with the industry standard. Some contractors require 50% up front (to cover the cost of materials). Then, one or two payments during the middle and end of the job. Others may break it down into 25% or even 10 – 15% increments. However, always insist that the window company put the contract in writing.
Financing
If the contractor offers financing terms, the terms of the financing should be included in the contract. If you will be seeking outside financing, the contract should have a contingency clause in case you are unable to secure financing for the project.
Warranties
The replacement windows contract should expressly state any warranty information for both materials and labor. If a warranty is provided by the material manufacturer, it should be stated on the contract and a copy of the warranty attached. If there is a warranty on the contractor’s labor, it should be provided in detail either on the document or as an attachment.
Dispute Resolution
It should state how any disputes will be handled and what the homeowner needs to do to initiate a dispute. Most often, contractors will require arbitration or mediation to handle disputes. If you have any problems, it is important to document all communication with the contractor in writing. This keeps a paper trail. If your contractor does not hold up to their end of the contract, you can follow up with additional action.
Right of Rescission
A contractor must provide information about your Right of rescission along with the written contract. The FTC requires that a window company give you the right to cancel a contract within 72 hours. The date and time that your right of rescission expires must be clearly stated within the agreement. Typically, the contractor will not begin work until after the right of rescission period has expired.
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