Verify the business and product information
Confirm the legal business on the contract, who will perform installation and current liability-insurance information. Check claimed training or third-party certification with the issuing organization. Ask for relevant completed-work references without treating stock photographs as project evidence.
Discuss the WSIB requirements for the actual arrangement. Its clearance rules include a specific exception for certain renovations contracted directly by a resident, occupant or family member; that is not a blanket exemption from workplace or coverage obligations. Ask for an explanation of what applies rather than repeat a universal certificate demand.
Ask how each opening was assessed
Have the installer distinguish repair, insert and full-frame options. An insert needs a suitable frame to retain; full-frame work exposes more of the opening for inspection and repair. Ask what evidence supports the recommendation and how unexpected damage will be handled.
For the product, request manufacturer, model, operation, glazing and whole-window ratings in consistent units. Check the exact Canadian ENERGY STAR eligibility if specified. Do not use an obsolete Ontario climate-zone label or assume every triple-pane product achieves the same thermal or acoustic result.
Compare the installation and finishing scope
Ask which product instructions govern support, fastening, flashing and perimeter air sealing. Insulation alone does not establish a continuous air barrier. Confirm what will happen to existing cladding, exterior trim and interior casing.
Use the same opening schedule across bidders and include removal, disposal, finish work, access and treatment of hidden damage. A low total is a reason to examine scope, not evidence by itself of poor workmanship. Require proposed substitutions to be identified before ordering.
Review references and the actual coverage
Ask references about communication, protection of interior spaces, unfinished items and the response to problems after installation. These questions are more informative than an unsupported claim that a particular season proves installer quality.
Obtain product, sealed-glass, hardware and workmanship terms applicable to the ordered units. Check whether labour is included, coverage is prorated, registration is required and who handles a claim. A third-party program should be assessed on its written eligibility and terms, not assumed to cover every installation or business closure.
Set the contract and handover expectations
Confirm price, payment arrangements, timing, approvals responsibility and written change handling. Resolve opening changes or heritage requirements with the municipality before manufacture. Ask how the house will be protected if weather or concealed repairs delay an opening.
At handover, operate the units, locks and screens and review maintenance instructions. Keep the final product schedule, labels and installation photographs. The most useful commitment is a specific, documented scope with a clear service contact, rather than a generic guarantee of lower bills and permanently clear glass.
Technical references
- Ontario: Your rights when starting home renovations or repairs — Written project agreements and scope.
- WSIB: Questions and answers about clearances — Specific home-renovation clearance exception.
- NRCan: Window and door ratings and certification — Whole-window comparison and unit consistency.
- NRCan: ENERGY STAR Canada window and door specification — Current Canadian product certification.
- Andersen: Air and vapour control at window installations — Separate insulation from air-barrier continuity.
Include a preferred date and time
Discuss your exterior project
Select the exterior work and note the current material and repair or replacement needs.
Prefer to send the details first? Request a quote or call (519) 501-5003.