You\'ve got the quote. Before you sign, run these twelve questions past the installer. Their answers, and the speed they give them. Tell you everything.
The twelve
- What\'s the brand and model of every major component? (Shutter manufacturer, motor brand and model, fabric supplier.)
- Can I see the full warranty terms in writing? Read them. Look for exclusions on motorised parts, fabrics, and labour.
- How long is the lead time from deposit to install? Standard is 3-6 weeks for custom shutters. "Next week" might mean they\'re using stock, which is fine if specified.
- What\'s the deposit and payment schedule? 10-30% deposit, balance on completion is normal.
- Do you install with employees or subcontractors? Both can be fine, but the workmanship warranty needs to cover whoever\'s on your roof.
- How long is the workmanship warranty? 5 years minimum, 10 is better.
- Is GST included in the total? Should be obvious but always confirm.
- What happens if a measurement is wrong? Who pays for the re-make? It should be them.
- Can I have your ABN, public liability insurance certificate, and any state licence number? Verify all three.
- Can I speak to three recent customers? Real installers say "absolutely". Dodgy ones get vague.
- What\'s NOT included in this quote? Forces them to disclose any extras they were planning to add at install time.
- How is post-install warranty service handled? Do they come back themselves, or hand it off to a manufacturer call centre?
Score the answers
Fast, specific, written answers = professional installer. Vague, hesitant, "we\'ll sort it out" answers = walk away. Use our quote comparison checklist to keep all twelve answers in one document per installer.
Ready to start? Get three local quotes and put them through the twelve questions. The right installer will breeze through.
