Checking Window Installer References: What to Ask Past Customers

References are your window into how an installer actually performs. According to the Better Business Bureau, thorough reference checking can prevent costly mistakes.

Getting Useful References

According to BBB guidance:

Request specifics:

• Ask for 3-5 recent references (last 12 months)
• Request similar project scope (similar number of windows)
• Ask for local references (you can visit)
• Request both residential and any commercial if relevant

Watch for curated lists:

• Installers will provide their happiest customers
• This is normal—they're starting points, not complete picture
• Supplement with online reviews and BBB records

Questions for Reference Calls

According to FGIA and consumer guidance:

About the Process

1. How was the initial consultation? Were they thorough?
2. Did the quote match the final bill? Any surprises?
3. Did they start and finish on schedule?
4. How did they handle unexpected issues?
5. Was the crew professional and respectful of your home?

About Quality

6. Are you satisfied with the window quality?
7. How does the finished work look?
8. Have you noticed any issues since installation?
9. Do all windows operate smoothly?
10. Any drafts or water issues?

About Follow-Up

11. How did they handle cleanup?
12. Did they explain how to operate and maintain the windows?
13. Have you had any warranty issues? How were they handled?
14. Would you hire them again?

The Key Question

15. "Is there anything you wish you'd known before hiring them?"

Reference Red Flags

According to BBB warning signs:

Installer red flags:

• Unable or unwilling to provide references
• References are all family/friends
• Only provides references from years ago
• Pressures you to skip reference checking

Reference red flags:

• Hesitation to recommend
• Price changes from quote
• Schedule delays without communication
• Unresolved quality issues
• Difficulty reaching installer for warranty work

Beyond Direct References

According to BBB and consumer protection guidance:

Online Reviews

• Google reviews (most comprehensive)
• BBB complaints and reviews
• Yelp, Angi, HomeAdvisor
• Look for patterns, not isolated complaints

BBB Record

• Check for complaints and resolution history
• Verify business registration
• Look at time in business

Ask to See Work

• Request to visit a completed project
• Look at exterior trim detail
• Check window operation
• Examine interior finish work

What Good References Sound Like

According to FGIA:

Positive indicators:

• "They did exactly what they promised"
• "Communication was excellent"
• "The crew was professional and clean"
• "When there was an issue, they fixed it promptly"
• "I've already recommended them to neighbors"

The Bottom Line

Take time to actually call references. According to BBB, most consumers skip this step—but 10 minutes on the phone can save thousands in problems. Past performance is the best predictor of future performance.

*For complete hiring guidance, see: [Choosing a Window Installer](/guides/choosing-window-installer)*