The window business has plenty of good contractors and a few bad ones, especially after storms. Watch for these signs.
- No license number or an inactive license. Always verify it. See how to choose a contractor.
- "Today only" pressure. Real quotes do not vanish tonight.
- A very low price. It may leave out permits, products or installation scope.
- Vague product details. You should see manufacturer, product line and approvals.
- Asking you to pull the permit. A pro does it. See permit basics.
- Large upfront cash payments. Prefer traceable payments and milestone schedules.
- No physical business presence or reviews. Check for a track record.
- Storm chasers. Out-of-area crews that knock on doors after a hurricane.
- No written warranty. You should receive one.
- Unwillingness to provide insurance proof.
Protect yourself
- Get at least two written quotes.
- Pay by check or card, not cash.
- Keep all paperwork.
- Check Florida's consumer complaint resources if you are unsure.
Next: questions to ask before hiring a window installer.
After a storm: extra caution
After hurricanes, out-of-area crews often appear with offers to fix windows, roofs and more. Many are legitimate, but some collect deposits and disappear. Before you sign:
- Verify the license and insurance with the state.
- Confirm there is a real local address and phone number.
- Do not pay a large deposit up front.
- Get a written contract with scope and timeline.
Insurance claim pressure
Be careful if a contractor promises to "handle" your claim in unusual ways or asks you to sign over your benefits without understanding the terms. Read documents carefully and talk to your insurer.
Warning signs in the contract
- No start or end date.
- Blank spaces in the contract.
- Unclear change-order rules.
- Payment terms that front-load most of the money.
What a good contractor does
A reliable contractor measures carefully, explains the options, provides a written scope, handles permits, communicates schedule changes and cleans up. Compare with our checklist for choosing a contractor.
If something goes wrong
Keep records, communicate in writing, and contact the state licensing board or consumer protection resources if you cannot resolve a dispute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest red flag?
An unlicensed contractor. In Florida, unlicensed contracting is illegal and leaves you with little protection.
Is a big deposit a warning sign?
It can be. Be cautious of large upfront payments and ask about what the deposit covers.
What should I do if a contractor pressures me?
Slow down. A legitimate contractor will give you time to compare written quotes.
Where can I report a problem contractor?
You can contact the state licensing agency and consumer protection offices. Keep your documents ready.
Ready to talk about your project? Get a free written quote (usually within 48 hours) or call 786-343-4729. EZ Glazing Corp is licensed and insured (License #SCC131153391) and handles the permit and inspection.