Building Regs

Know Your Rights – tips and advice when buying double glazing

The Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982 provides you with some basic rights.

• Firstly you are entitled to expect the work to be carried out to a reasonable standard i.e. using the skill and expertise you would expect from an experienced company.



• If there are any problems, ask for them to be sorted out. If they are not rectified, you can charge the firm the reasonable cost of getting this work done elsewhere. You may be able to claim for any extra loss of expense you have incurred.



• If you do not agree a price in advance, then the price charged should be reasonable. You can find out what a reasonable price is by getting estimates from other companies. We would recommend you agree in advance the total cost for all works and have a contract for this.

Within reason, keep a check on the work being done. Did it start on time and finish approximately when planned?

If there is anything you are unhappy about you should contact the company immediately to discuss it. In most companies the person you will discuss problems with will be the Installation Manager

Special Note: Your double glazing supplier is also responsible for any work done by a sub-contractor. Never sign a satisfaction note or completion form until you are sure the work has been done to your satisfaction. It may weaken your case if you have to complain.

Payments

The contract will usually state when payment is due, or it may be possible to negotiate the terms of payment before signing the contract. These can be drawn up to include stage payments, where you only pay for the work that has been carried out.

Many suppliers will offer you a finance agreement, which will allow you to pay in instalments.

Make sure that you understand the terms of the agreement and the rate of interest that you may be paying. Only pay for the work / sign finance company satisfaction note when you are completely satisfied with the work done.

Your Right To Cancel

When you have ordered something from a seller in your own home, such as double glazing, you may be able to cancel the contract if you act quickly. This applies when you pay on credit or by cash from a seller who has called uninvited. If you have such a right, you must be given written notice of it when you sign the contract, otherwise the contract is invalid. If you do not want to go ahead you should cancel quickly.

Send a letter by recorded delivery so that you have proof of posting and keep a photocopy of your letter. Check to see if the contract included customer cancellation options. If the Installation Company is a member of the GGF you have the right to cancel the contract within 7 days of signing the contract.

Image Credits: Nuglas, Dial a Conservatory