8 Questions to Ask Prior to Buying

	Can the vendor bond your job? A bond is like an insurance policy protecting the property owner in the event the job isn't completed by the contractor or liens are placed on the property. The bonding company, or surety, will pay to complete the job and pay any unpaid subcontractors/vendors in the event your contractor has financial problems.
	Did your contractor/vendor provide you an insurance certificate? If your contractors employee is injured on your jobsite and the contractor doesn't have workers compensation insurance the property owner will ultimately be responsible for the medical bills in most states.
	Does your vendor carry professional liability insurance? If damage or an injury results because of a design flaw in your building your contractor's general liability insurance won't protect you. He needs to provide an insurance certificate showing that he also carries professional liability insurance.
	Can your vendor supply a one piece roof system eliminating all lap joints and associated leak points? Laps and penetrations provide opportunities for leaks.
	Is the material and installation under one contract? You don't want to have to determine if the material was shorted, damaged by the installer, or mis-fabricated. Insist on one, lump sum contract that results in a completed project.
	How long has your vendor/contractor been in business? Unfortunately, many suppliers are poorly capitalized and present questions as to how long they may remain in business. If you have a warranty claim it is critical that you have a vendor who is around to respond.
	Does your vendor/contractor have a contractor's license to build on your project site? In most states a contractor's license is required. Starting a project without a licensed contractor will result in the construction ceasing and your opening delayed.
	May I visit your manufacturing plant? Many vendors listed on the web are simply brokers of material with minimal investment or long term customer commitment.

"With A-Lert, service didn't stop after the sale. My sales representative was an integral part ofthe project before, during, and after the sale." ~Kevin Sewell, Waller, TX