Near me" matters less than three things you can actually check: that the company is licensed in your state, that its insurance is current, and that someone will still answer the phone if a seal fails in year three. This page covers how to verify each.
- 3quotes worth gettingenough to see a pattern, not just a number
- 2separate warrantiesproduct and workmanship, often different parties
- 0certifications implieda referral is not an endorsement
Searching for someone nearby is the obvious first move, and proximity does matter a little - a local company is easier to get back for a warranty callback. But it is the weakest of the things worth checking, and it is the only one most people check.
What to verify, in order
- State licensing. Requirements are set by your state and sometimes your city. Ask for the license number and verify it with the issuing body rather than taking a photo of a card as proof.
- Current insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance and check the dates on it. Liability cover matters if something in your house is damaged during the install.
- Who actually does the work. Some companies use their own crews, some subcontract. Neither is automatically worse, but you should know which, and whether the sub is licensed too.
- Both warranties, in writing. The window manufacturer warrants the product; the installer warrants the workmanship. These are separate, often come from different parties, and the workmanship one is the one people forget to ask about.
Making quotes comparable
Three quotes are only useful if they describe the same job. Before comparing numbers, confirm each one states the install method (insert or full-frame), the exact opening count, the glazing package, and what is included - disposal, trim, capping and permits. The full checklist is on choosing a company.
What a referral from this site is not
If you ask to be connected through this site, your enquiry goes to independent local companies and we may be paid for that referral. We have not inspected anyone's work, do not license or bond anyone, and being listed is not a certification. The verification above is still yours to do.
Common questions
Does it matter how close the company is?
A little. A local company is generally easier to get back for a warranty visit, and knows your local permit process. It matters far less than licensing, insurance and a written workmanship warranty.
Is a bigger regional company better than a small local one?
Neither is automatically better. Larger companies tend to have more formal warranty processes; smaller ones are often more accountable in person. Judge both on the four checks above rather than on size.
How many quotes should I get?
Around three is where most people can see a pattern rather than a single number. The range tells you whether an outlier is a genuine bargain or simply a different scope.