The team at SRJ Windows is eager to share their industry knowledge and expertise with homeowners, especially if you’re considering undertaking a renovation project this year. Creating a home takes time and is often a big investment – which is one of the reasons why we have compiled a list of safety questions that you should ask a window and door company before committing to a renovation project.
For answers to questions such as insurance, first aid, pre-risk assessments and health and safety training, please visit our other article. If you would like to explore more questions that you should be asking, then keep reading!
1. What Experience Do On-Site Staff Have in Working on Domestic Properties?
When it comes to home improvements, there are many roles and responsibilities of on-site staff. Workers have an important role and should take an active part in helping to manage health and safety risks. Experience is vital to ensuring that your home renovation project is a success.
Stevie Macintosh, SRJ’s Managing Director, discusses the experience of SRJ’s on-site staff:
“All our on-site staff have gained most of their experience from working in domestic properties. For many, it is the only type of work that they have ever done. Each department has the correct skill set for the task at hand. At SRJ, staff experience is key to delivering a 5 star experience to our customers”.
2. Are Government Grants and Scrappage Scheme Incentives Legitamate?
There are lots of terms, such as ‘Government Grants’ and ‘Scrappage Schemes’, which are used by windows and door companies as incentives for their customers. Companies will offer an initial price for replacement windows and double glazing but reduce this initial quote based on the customer’s qualification for funding. They also offer savings if you take part in their recycling schemes, which means recycling your old uPVC window and door frames for new windows and doors. But are these grants and schemes legitimate?
Stevie expresses his strong thoughts on this:
“Government grants and Scrappage Schemes are currently not available in Scotland. Window and door companies will typically use these terms to convince customers that they are making a saving by starting with an inflated cost and reducing the price. But sadly, it’s just a scam that they use. At SRJ, we offer bespoke quotes to our customers, which is our most competitive price for quality products, first time”.
3. Are they Submitting VAT Charges for Home Improvement Products?
Value Added Tax (VAT), is added to products and services that are sold by VAT registered businesses. Businesses will have to register for VAT if their taxable turnover is over a certain annual threshold. The standard VAT rate is 20% and VAT registered businesses will need to keep a record of VAT payments for goods bought, VAT charges to customers, VAT returns to other businesses and ensure that all payments owed are submitted to HMRC.
SRJ is VAT registered business based in Fife and Stevie assures their customers with the following statement:
“At SRJ, we charge VAT on all installations due to the size of the company. All VAT is paid on time to HMRC and recorded so that HMRC can review our records at any time and ensure that we are paying the right amount of tax. This means that the 20% that you pay direct to us is paid to HMRC on time and recorded”.
4. Are They FCA Regulated & Approved for Funding?
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulates financial markets and financial services across the UK. Businesses that are FCA regulated ensure that their customers receive honest, competitive and fair deals. The main aim of FCA is to protect consumers from bad conduct by enforcing rules, regulations and standards.
Are SRJ Windows FCA Regulated & Approved?
“SRJ is an FCA regulated business that goes further than just making sure we deliver funding options carefully. Many members of our staff go through continuous training and competence assessments, which ensures that our workforce is appropriately qualified and well regulated. Make sure the funding provided by your window company is fully FCA checked.” Stevie explains.
Choose an Experienced & Honest Window & Door Company
Committing to a home improvement project with a reputable windows and doors company is an important decision. We want to ensure that homeowners make an informed decision before committing, which is why we are completely transparent with our customers. By asking these questions, you can ensure that you are working with an experienced, reputable and trustworthy company.
At SRJ Windows, we were established in 1992 and have spent decades building our business into a local, reputable name in Fife, throughout Dunfermline and Central Scotland. With over 1000+ 5 star reviews on Trustpilot that praise our exceptional services, installations and high quality products, you can count on us. To discuss your project with a member of our helpful team, get in touch over the phone or by sending us a message online or through WhatsApp today. Looking to start your project? Then begin your quote online! At SRJ, we make your renovation dreams a reality!
Categories: Help & Advice, Updates
Tags: FCA Regulations, Health & Safety, Safety Questions, Scrappage Schemes, VAT, Window Grants
