|
|
 |
|
No items in cart
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Solution of the Week
Need Help? Here Are a Few Ideas on How to Find an Installer
 |
One of the questions we commonly get from customers is "Where can I find someone to install the products from Smarthome?" Although the majority of our products can be installed by even the most basic do-it-yourselfers, we understand that in some cases our customers may not have the time, skills or the proper tools to do some jobs themselves. That's why we've compiled some ideas on where you can find qualified installers.
| | | Where Do You Find Names? | |
One of the first places people turn is the Yellow Pages. But since "Automation" isn't even a phone book category, that usually turns out to be a dead end. Fortunately there are other options, that you may or may not be aware of.
For example, we offer the Smarthome Installer Referral Program. This brand new program offers homeowners free referrals to installers in their region who are adept in the type of project you're looking to have done. And since the dealers are longtime Smarthome customers, virtually every company in the database is very familiar with the Smarthome product line.
Another source you may want to consider checking is the CEDIA Finder Service. Operated by the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association, a global trade association of companies that specialize in planning and installing electronic systems for the home, this program offers free referrals to custom design/installation specialists and CEDIA members throughout the U.S.
You may also want to check the TechHome Referral Database. Operated by the Consumer Electronics Association's TechHome Division, which represents the entire channel for home control and networking products, this online tool allows consumers and builders to look for quality installers and dealers.
You can also check the Find an Installer Program operated by Electronic House magazine. This service also helps you find qualified professionals in your area.
| | | Questions to Ask a Potential Installer | |
One thing to keep in mind is that the services listed above are referral services only. Although they'll provide you contact names and numbers, you'll still have to interview them to make sure they're right for your project. You'll also have to negotiate the terms of the project and agree on costs. To help you get started, we've compiled a list common questions to ask.
What type of projects does the installation company specialize in? What is their main area of expertise? Make sure they're a good fit for your project. If it's a company that specializes in home computer networks, then you probably don't want to hire them to hook up your home theater system.
How many similar projects did they complete within the last year? Some installers can make it sound like they specialize in anything, but if you ask them to back it up with numbers, you'll probably get a more realistic idea of their compatibility for the project.
How long has the installer or installation company been in business? This is a good way to judge the success of a company. If the company is fairly new, be sure to ask how long the installers have been doing that type of work before starting the new company.
Does the company provide a list of previous customer references? Nearly every qualified installer and installation company will be able to provide you with a list of references. And be sure to let them know that if the work is completed satisfactorily, that you'd be happy to be a reference in the future. This will give them further incentive to give your project their very best attention.
How long will the installation take? Be sure to ask the minimum and maximum time, so you have an idea of the time range. This is especially important if the house will be without power or other services for a period of time.
Who will perform the actual work? Trained technicians? Subcontractors? And who will oversee the work? Many times the person who negotiates the job isn't necessarily the one doing the work.
Will the work require any permits or inspections? Although most projects don't require permits, there may be some that involve extensive electrical work which may involve specialized permits or inspections.
Ask for a written estimate of the work you want done. Keep in mind that the written estimate price may change depending on unexpected problems (see question below).
What type of unexpected problems may occur? What problems came up on other similar installations? And how will these changes affect the final installation cost? Projects seldom go without at least one hitch, and it's a good idea to at least know what type of problems may arise.
| | | What to Do Before the Work Starts | |
The final step you need to take before hiring an installer is perhaps the most important part, yet also the most overlooked. And that is to independently verify that the installer or company you hire is properly qualified, licensed, bonded and insured. Anyone can claim that they're licensed, but we strongly recommend checking with your state regulators to make sure that the license hasn't expired or hasn't been revoked.
A great place to start is right here on the Web. For example in California, we did a search on Google for the keywords "California State Contractor License Board" and we found a site that allows you to verify if a company's license is active.
For additional information, ask if they belong to any trade associations, which often have their own certification programs. You may also want to check the manufacturer of the equipment to be installed. If it's a large manufacturer, they may also have a proprietary certification program.
Last but not least, don't forget to trust your intuition. If an installer doesn't feel right, keep looking for another one who does. With a little bit of homework, we're sure you'll be happy with the installer and the results they provide.
|
|
|
View Cart 
