Choosing a windows and doors company shouldn’t feel like a gamble, yet for many homeowners, that’s exactly what it is. With flashy adverts, “today-only” discounts, and wildly different quotes, it’s hard to know who’s genuinely good and who’s just really good at selling.
At Birmingham Glass, we hear this all the time. Customers often come to us after a bad experience elsewhere; rushed decisions, poor workmanship, or companies that disappear the moment something goes wrong. So how do you know you’re dealing with a good window company?
Instead of banging on about why we think we’re different, this blog gives you the exact questions you should ask any window installer. If they answer clearly, confidently, and without pressure, you and your home are probably in safe hands.
How long have you been doing this and are you properly registered?
This might sound obvious, but it’s amazing how often it gets skipped. Ask whether the company is FENSA or CERTASS registered. If they’re not, that should ring alarm bells straight away. These schemes exist to protect homeowners and make sure installations meet building regulations.
Then ask how long they’ve been trading. Anyone can set up a company but sticking around for years is the hard part. It usually means they’re doing something right — looking after customers, fixing problems when they arise, and building a local reputation.
Birmingham Glass has been trading for decades. We’re still here because we focus on doing the job properly, not chasing quick sales then ditching our customers when they sign on the dotted line.
Who actually fits the windows?
This is one of the most important questions you can ask. It’s really important that you find out whether the fitters are employed by the company or subcontracted. Some firms sell you the job and then pass the fitting to whoever’s available that week. If something goes wrong, you can end up stuck in the middle, with no one taking responsibility.
At Birmingham Glass, we use our own trusted fitting teams. They know our standards, our products, and how we expect jobs to be finished. There’s no guessing, no cutting corners, and no being passed between companies if something goes wrong.
What’s actually included in the price?
A cheap quote can look great on paper, until you realise what’s been left out. Don’t be fooled by a low number. It’s what’s missing that matters.
Ask what’s included:
- Removal and disposal of old windows
- Trims, finishes, and making good
- Any access equipment or scaffolding
Some companies keep prices low by leaving things out, then charging extra later or worse, not doing them at all. A good company will talk you through the quote clearly and won’t mind being questioned on it.
Are they pushing you to decide there and then?
If you’re being pressured to sign on the spot, that’s usually a bad sign.
“Today only” deals, sudden discounts, or awkward silences while you “think about it” are all classic sales tactics. They’re designed to rush you before you’ve had time to compare or reflect.
Reputable window companies don’t need to pressure you. They’re confident in their work and happy to let you decide in your own time. At Birmingham Glass, we’d rather you feel comfortable and sure than rushed into something you later regret.
What do local people say about them?
Before choosing any installer, have a look around locally. Ask neighbours, check local Facebook groups, and see if friends or family have used them. A company that’s been around a long time will usually have a reputation — good or bad.
A lot of our customers come to Birmingham Glass because:
- Their neighbour used us
- A family member recommended us
- Or they’ve seen our name mentioned locally again and again
That kind of trust can’t be bought; it’s built over years of turning up and doing the job right.
What happens if there’s a problem?
Even with good installers, the odd issue can happen. What matters is how they handle this.
Make sure that you ask about aftercare and guarantees. We are so confident in the quality of our products that all of our windows and doors come with a 10-year guarantee as standard. Just as important is the fact that we’re here to honour it. If a company is hard to get hold of before you sign, imagine what they’ll be like if something needs fixing later.
If you want straightforward advice or a free quote without the pressure, get in touch.
