Contractor Standards Guide
Transcription
Contractor Standards Guide
Contractor Standards Guide Code of Ethics & Competency Learn How to Choose the Right Contractor... THE FIRST TIME. Table of Contents 14 PROFESSIONALISM 14 Multiple Product Options 15 Detailed Bid Specs and Price Integrity Introduction 16 No Tricks, No Pressure Sales Agreement 04 STABILITY 17 Worker Conduct Agreement & Pre-Start Inspection Form 04 Company Tangibles 18 Background Checks & Drug Testing 05 Bank Letter & Supplier Letter 19 On-Time Finish Guarantee 06 Business License & Insurance 20 WORKMANSHIP 07 Debt Status of Company 20 Certified Installers 08 REPUTATION 21 Money-Back Guarantee 08 BBB Letter 22 Lifetime and Worry-Free Guarantees 09 Memberships 23 Project Photos for Ideas & Inspiration 10 Customer References and Online Reviews 26 Frequently Asked Questions 12 Accolades and Awards 27 Conclusion 13 Direct Access to the Company Owner 03 Back Contractor Standards Checklist “I was shocked and embarrassed when I found out that contractors were America’s #1 most complained about industry.” —Brian Elias President of HANSONS So, You’re Thinking About Replacing Your Windows, Roof, Or Siding? Congratulations! When done properly, replacing your windows, roof, or siding can make your home more enjoyable and prove to be a valuable investment. Unfortunately, we’ve all heard horror stories about home remodeling projects gone bad. Problems with longer-than-expected installation, final bills that come in higher than the quote, and shoddy workmanship, sadly, are commonplace. I was shocked and embarrassed to find out that, according to Better Business Bureau statistics, home improvement contractors are in the top 1% most complained about industries— right up there with auto repair and airlines. We’ve always done a good job and treated our customers right—and we’ve been able to build a reputable business because of it. However, over the years I’ve noticed that some consumers will choose less-than-reputable companies to do jobs for them... usually because they are quoted less money. Don’t get me wrong: I’m all for good, honest competition, but it pains me to see good folks risk their hard-earned money with contractors who don’t have their best interests at heart. You deserve a great value for your money—which includes an honest contractor who uses high quality products and stands behind their work in both word and deed. Industry Standards Weren’t Tough Enough I wanted to find a way to educate consumers about how to choose a good, honest home improvement contractor. The industry standards simply aren’t tough enough—just about anybody with a hammer and a pickup truck can be a contractor. That’s why I’ve pioneered a set of standards called the Code of Ethics & Competency for Remodeling Contractors. The Code calls for contractors to uphold a high set of standards that will allow you to judge BEFORE-hand whether or not a contractor is likely to do the job right. This guide specifies those standards. Before you hire any company to work in or around your home, make sure you consult this guide and INSIST that the company comply with EVERY SINGLE STANDARD in this book. If you do, chances are excellent you’ll get exactly what you want out of your project. Sincerely, Brian Elias, President of 1-800-HANSONS 1-800-426-7667 Questions? Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 3 Stability You need to make sure that any contractor you do business with has proven themselves in the past, and will be there if you need them in the future. Don’t just ASK the contractor if they are stable; look for tangible proof of longevity and financial stability by asking for the items listed on the next few pages. What To Look For: Photos of Showroom and Staff Why It’s Important: Believe it or not, many contractors use a pickup truck for an office and showroom. Make sure that any contractor you’re dealing with is substantial enough to have a real office with all the normal business functions—accounting, production, sales, etc. If a contractor does not have an office, that should tell you something. Don’t fall for the “we just use our trucks as offices” line. Hansons Standard: Since we are the largest remodeling contractor in Michigan and Ohio (installing over 10,000 jobs a year), we have the office and infrastructure to support that volume of business. Our corporate office in Metro Detroit houses about 200 employees who handle everything from sales to procurement to finance to marketing and more… and 7 satellite offices throughout the state support our customers on a local level. 4 Contractor Standards Guide | Compliments of HANSONS What To Look For: Bank Letter Why It’s Important: Good standing with a bank is crucial for any business, but gaining the confidence and security of its financial managers allows a company not only to sustain itself and endure even in rough economic times but to innovate and grow to meet and service customer demands. Hansons Standard: We’ve been with the same bank, Fifth Third Bank, since 1995, and have been in good standing with them the entire time. What To Look For: Supplier Letter Why It’s Important: This is written confirmation of the company’s dealings with a supplier of a product they install stating that they are in good standing as a vendor and pay their bills promptly. These letters are easy for your contractor to obtain from suppliers—if a contractor says they are difficult to obtain, then there might be something that they’re trying to hide. Hansons Standard: We pay our bill and make our payments to our suppliers. In fact, one way we lower our prices to our customers is by taking advantage of early payment discounts for prompt/early payments. Questions? Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 5 What To Look For: Business License Why It’s Important: Make sure they have been operating under the same name for a minimum of 5 years. Many contractors open and close their doors multiple times to avoid past customer complaints. (Naturally, some businesses will be legitimately new—if so, get a 10-year work history of the owner and ASK questions!) Hansons Standard: We’ve been licensed under the same name since 1988—that’s 25 years! And you can count on us to be there for the next 25 years… and the 25 years after that! What To Look For: Insurance Why It’s Important: You need to know if your contractor carries general liability insurance for both commercial and residential projects. A sizable contractor will carry no less than $500,000… and usually around $1,000,000 of coverage. If your contractor’s insurance policy can’t cover potential damages, then the contractor would be personally liable. If he cannot cover the damages himself, you will have no legal recourse and will end up paying for any possible damages or injuries yourself. Many contractors are not financially stable…and don’t carry proper insurance coverage to protect you against losses. Additionally, contractors who fail to provide workers compensation benefits risk severe governmental penalties and potentially companyending lawsuits should an employee become injured. Hansons Standard: Hansons carries $1,000,000 of general liability coverage and here’s the certificate to prove it! Do NOT deal with a contractor without sizable coverage, or you may foot the bill for the mistake. 6 Contractor Standards Guide | Compliments of 1-800-HANSONS What To Look For: Debt Status Of Company Why It’s Important: Companies that are in debt have to make extra money each month to pay their debt on top of what they need to run the company. You should avoid companies that have debt loads that are in excess of 10% of company revenues, and if possible, work with companies that have no debt at all. Lack of debt shows that the company knows how to run a profitable business and dramatically lowers the risk of a problem. Request a statement of debt-to-revenue ratio that is signed by the company’s Certified Public Accountant. Hansons Standard: Hansons only has nominal, current payables to vendors and is virtually free from any kind of long-term debt including loans, credit cards, private equity, etc. HANSONS is a 100% debt-free company. Questions? Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 7 Reputation You can tell a great deal about a contractor based on what others are saying about them—particularly their customers. The old advice of “ask for 3 references” is just too easy to fake. You’ll need to get a little tougher with your contractor to protect yourself. Insist that any contractor you’re considering can produce the things listed on the next few pages to PROVE that their reputation is rock solid. What To Look For: BBB Letter Why It’s Important: You need to go further than just checking a contractor’s standing with the Better Business Bureau. Remember, many contractors shut down and open under new names year after year—so check to see August 7, 2012 how long they’ve been a member. Ms. Eaman Gaggos Hansons Window & Siding 977 E 14 Mile Rd Troy MI 48083-4519 Hansons Standard: We’ve been a member of the local BBB for over 25 years and are proud to have no complaints and the highest RE: BBB Accreditation Status possible rating: A+. Dear Ms. Gaggos: This is to confirm that Hansons Window & Siding, with its headquarters at 977 East 14 Mile Road, Troy Michigan, has been a BBB Accredited Business, in good standing, since March 1989. Hansons Window & Siding has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau Serving Eastern Michigan. The BBB Business Review for Hansons Window & Siding is a national review, repUHVHQWLQJWKH%%%¶VH[SHULHQFHIRUDOO+DQVRQV¶ locations, consolidating all consumer experience reported to BBB by the customers of Hansons Window & Siding. Regards; BBB Serving Eastern Michigan Michelle Michels VP of Operations Phone: 248-799-0306 Email: [email protected] &HQWUDO3DUN%OYG6XLWH6RXWKILHOG0,-3KRQH-223-)D[8-356-5135 8 Contractor Standards Guide | Compliments of HANSONS What To Look For: Memberships Why It’s Important: Any reputable company will be a member of at least their local Chamber Of Commerce—and often multiple Chambers. Companies that aren’t members of their local BBB are almost surely trying to hide past unresolved complaints. Insist that any contractor you consider hiring can show you current certificates of membership for all of these organizations. Hansons Standard: Hansons is a member of every local and national association that matters, including Energy Star, National Association of Remodeling, Construction Association of Michigan, Michigan Home Remodeling, American Architectural Manufacturers, National Association of Home Builders, National Fenestration Rating Council, and the Bob Villa Window Forums. 1201 15th Street NW Washington, DC 20005 T 800 368 5242 F 202 266 8438 www.nahb.org October 11, 2012 To Whom It May Concern: This letter confirms that Hanson’s Window and Siding in Troy, MI, by virtue of membership in the Home Builders Association, is a Member in good standing of the National Association of Home Builders and is entitled to all rights and privileges afforded thereto. Respectfully, William R. Deiss, II Executive Director Membership Marketing & Associate Questions? Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 9 What To Look For: Customer References and Online Reviews Why It’s Important: All reputable contractors can provide a list of references that includes information about their past customers. A five year list of clients should contain at least 250 to 500 job references. In addition, you should be able to find online reviews for a reputable contractor. A company with very few (or no) reviews should be a huge red flag. Hansons Standard: Hansons has completed over 150,000 (one-hundred fifty THOUSAND!) projects in our history, a record for the state of Michigan! Think about it—if we’ve completed THAT many jobs, and maintain an A+ rating with the BBB, we must be doing something right! Strongly Agree 01 Salesperson Knowledge - David Willmeng was knowledgeable and thorough in the meeting/estimate presentation. 02 Professional & Organized - 1-800-Hansons is organized and professional. 03 Schedule - 1-800-Hansons adhered to our agreed upon schedule. 04 Construction Quality - I am satisfied with the quality of materials and workmanship. 05 Communication - The 1-800-Hansons staff communicates with me effectively. 06 Problem Resolution - The 1-800-Hansons staff addresses and resolves problems effectively. 07 Clean & Safe - The job site is kept clean and safe. 08 Work Done Right - My work was done right the first time. 09 Likely To Recommend - I am likely to recommend 1-800-Hansons to a friend. 10 Improvement Suggestion - 1-800-Hansons is always seeking ways to improve, do you have one suggestion for something we can change? I thought that everyone was polite, courteous, and respectful. 11 Area Of Satisfaction - In what area(s) were you most satisfied with your experience with 1-800-Hansons and why? I was satisfied with the customer service. The couple of times that I called, they provided me with extension numbers and I didn't have to wait for contact with an automated voice service. 12 Remodeling Concerns - What concerns, if any, did you have about remodeling prior to starting this project, and how did 1-800-Hansons address these concerns? I am a return customer, so I didn't have any concerns. 13 Current Referrals - Do you know anyone who would be interested in receiving information about the services and products offered by 1-800-Hansons? 14 Other Contractors Considered - What other contractors did you consider for this project and what was the major difference that made you choose 1-800-Hansons? I am a return customer with a previous positive experience, so I didn't consider other contractors. 10 Contractor Standards Guide | Compliments of 1-800-HANSONS Strongly Agree 01 Salesperson Knowledge - Martin Marlett was knowledgeable and thorough in the meeting/estimate presentation. 02 Professional & Organized - 1-800-Hansons is organized and professional. 03 Schedule - 1-800-Hansons adhered to our agreed upon schedule. 4 4 04 Construction Quality - I am satisfied with the quality of materials and workmanship. 4 05 Communication - The 1-800-Hansons staff communicates with me effectively. 4 06 Problem Resolution - The 1-800-Hansons staff addresses and resolves problems effectively. 4 07 Clean & Safe - The job site is kept clean and safe. 08 Work Done Right - My work was done right the first time. 09 Likely To Recommend - I am likely to recommend 1-800-Hansons to a friend. 4 4 4 10 Improvement Suggestion - 1-800-Hansons is always seeking ways to improve, do you have one suggestion for something we can change? 11 Area Of Satisfaction - In what area(s) were you most satisfied with your experience with 1-800-Hansons and why? Every single aspect from beginning to end was good. 12 Remodeling Concerns - What concerns, if any, did you have about remodeling prior to starting this project, and how did 1-800-Hansons address these concerns? I was concerned about being able to pay for it. They made it very easy and worked out a plan. 13 Current Referrals - Do you know anyone who would be interested in receiving information about the services and products offered by 1-800-Hansons? 14 Other Contractors Considered - What other contractors did you consider for this project and what was the major difference that made you choose 1-800-Hansons? I considered a local handyman, but 1-800-Hansons had a canvasser approach me at my door which is why I went with them. 15 Next Project - As you may already know, 1-800-Hansons specializes in windows, roofing, siding, doors, insulation and gutter guards. Which one of these will be your next project and what is your timeframe? I want to get more windows after these are paid for. Questions? Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 11 What To Look For: Accolades and Awards Why It’s Important: If a contractor has been in business for any length of time—and doing a good job—they will most likely have been written about in a magazine or newspaper, received an award of some kind, or received special recognition from an association or trade organization. Any company that can’t produce at least SOME of these kinds of accolades might not be worthy of accolades! Hansons Standard: Hansons has won more awards and had more articles written about us than any other contractor in Michigan! But our accolades are not just limited to the local market. In 2011, we received the highest national honor available in the entire COUNTRY when we were named “Contractor of the Year” by Replacement Contractor Magazine (the industry’s most respected trade publication). Out of over 80,000 contractors in the country, Hansons was named NUMBER ONE. 12 Contractor Standards Guide | Compliments of 1-800-HANSONS 1-800-Hansons Wins 2011 Replacement Contractor of the Y ar Award from Replacement Ye Contractor Magazine Hansons Windows President Honored with Fred Case Remodeling Entrepreneur of the Year Award May 24th, 2012 | Category: Industry News Brian Elias, owner and president of Hansons Windows, is the sixth winner of the national Fred Case Remodeling Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Established by the founder, cochairman and CEO of Case Design/Remodeling, the award is given to individuals who demonstrate “business expertise, financial strength, industry and community involvement and entrepreneurial spirit.” “It is an honor to be recognized by the design and remodeling industry,” says Elias. Case founder, CEO and co-chairman, Fred Case, said that Elias “demonstrates that with forward-thinking ideas and strong execution of those ideas, not only can you survive, but you can even excel in today’s marketplace. The entrepreneurial spirit he has shown sets a higher bar not only for his business but for the remodeling industry as a whole.” Case added, “We are proud to recognize such a deserving individual for all of his accomplishments over the past year. Brian Elias truly exemplifies what the Fred Case Award is all about.” Annual award goes to 1-800-Hansons fo f r growth, longevity, y ethics and customer satisfaction 1-800-HANSONS has won the 2011 Replacement Contractor of the Ye Y ar Award from Replacement Contractor Magazine, a publication serving the roofing, siding and window replacement contracting industry throughout the United States. 1-800-Hansons is the first Michigan contractor to win this national award. Award criteria include sales growth, profitability, y longevity, y innovative marketing, ethics and customer satisfaction, and refe f rrals and repeat business. “We are both honored and humbled by this prestigious award that recognizes the best in the industry, y ” says Brian Elias of 1800-Hansons.“We work very hard to provide our customers with the best products and service before and after the sale. In this industry, y it’s all about trust, and we work very hard at earning and keeping the trust of our clients. Because of this, we receive many refe f rrals and repeat business.” 1-800-HANSONS has posted consistent sales gains throughout the last decade, increasing company sales despite a very bad economy. What the company has learned in this economy is that when it comes to running a complex and multiple location business in a market that’s both economically stagnant and highly competitive, you cannot aff fford to make any mistakes and that customer satisfaction is job one. In 1988, Elias began the company in Troy as a oneman operation selling the leads he actually canvassed. Today, y 1-800-HANSONS is one of the industry’s biggest companies. In recent years, HANSONS’ original location in Troy generated a majority of the company’s $49 million in 2010 sales. The company continues to grow, with more revenue coming from branch locations each year. Replacement Contractor Magazine includes HANSONS in the top 10 of its list of top 100 replacement contractors. COM PANY NAME LOCAT ION NO. 2010 OF R EVENUE JOB S 1 Window World N. Wilkesboro, N.C. $371,728,092 127,871 $2,900 $444,269,237 2 Champion Windows Manufacturing Cincinnati 316,970,124 47,120 6,727 342,000,000 3 U.S. Home Systems Lewisville, Texas 145,873,000 17,212 7,500 NA 4 Power Home Remodeling Group Chester, Pa. 124,000,000 12,500 10,000 200,000,000 w · dr · s · r · i 5 LeafGuard by Beldon San Antonio $90,743,964 18,504 $4,904 $96,393,000 w · dr · s · r · b · g 6 Castle “The Window People” Mount Laurel, N.J. 55,354,362 9,606 5,762 55,500,000 w · dr 7 THV True Home Value Louisville, Ky. 50,522,970 10,375 5,780 38,855,500 w · dr · s · r · dk · sr · b · k · g 8 Thompson Creek Window Co. Lanham, Md. 47,885,820 7,394 9,500 62,000,000 w · dr · s · g 9 1-800-Hansons Troy, Mich. 46,159,920 9,050 5,966 47,000,000 w · dr · s · r · g · i 10 Amazing Siding & Windows Tomball, Texas 35,125,494 2,007 17,501 40,000,000 w · dr · s 11 Window World of Baton Rouge Baton Rouge, La. 34,132,147 9,932 3,556 42,000,000 w · dr · s AVG. 2011 JOB SIZE REVENUE P P R ODUCTS CAR R I ED w · dr · s w · dr · s · sr b · k · os What To Look For: Direct Access To The Company Owner Why It’s Important: In the event of a problem, you want to know that you can go all the way to the top to have your problem addressed, if necessary. Make sure the company you deal with makes the final decision maker available via cell phone at any time of the day. “Feedback” mechanisms such as online forms or voice mails are not acceptable; look for a company that makes getting in touch with the owner direct and easy. Hansons Standard: Brian Elias started 1-800-HANSONS in 1988 and still owns 100% of the company. Even though the company now installs over 100 projects a day, Brian can still be reached at any time by any customer by calling his personal cell phone number listed on this card. Questions? Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 13 Professionalism A good contractor doesn’t just do good work. They also understand that when dealing with customers, it’s oftentimes the little things that make a big difference. You should find a contractor that shows you respect by the way they treat you, the way they look, the way they treat your property, and how they pay attention to details. Check any contractor you’re considering against these standards of professionalism found on the next few pages. What To Look For: Multiple Product Options Why It’s Important: Many companies take a “one size fits all” approach to the products they sell, which severely limits consumer choice. This is typically done because they find it too hard to manage inventory, they find it too hard to train salespeople to know/explain the differences, and they find it too hard to find installers who can handle different products. Any reputable remodeling contractor will give you multiple options within a given product category to account for consumers’ differing needs in terms of product quality, durability, price points, and product features. A “one product, take it or leave it” approach should be a red flag. Hansons Standard: Hansons always gives you FOUR different options to choose from to fit your budget and quality needs. 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The minimum you should accept is a bid which details the type and amount of materials to be used. Even better than that is a detailed bid which lists measurements, estimates the time to be spent on the job, and details the type and amount of materials to be used. Always make sure the bid has the contractor’s signature on it. In competitive bidding situations, make sure that bids are “apples to apples,” especially in the case where one bid is significantly less than others—not a good sign. 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Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 15 What To Look For: No Tricks, No Pressure Sales Agreement Why It’s Important: Many unethical contractors will resort to high-pressure sales tactics to get you to buy before you’ve had an opportunity to do proper due diligence on them. If you know nothing about the contractor prior to the sales call (from literature, references, online information), and they give you a low-ball price “but only if you buy right this minute,” you should be wary. Any time you feel uncomfortable or unduly pressured in a sales environment, you should ask the contractor to “back off.” Reputable companies will have a no-tricks, no-pressure sales pledge signed by the owner, sales manager, and each sales associate. Hansons Standard: All Hansons Sales Associates sign a “Zero Sales Pressure Agreement” that is also signed by our sales manager to pledge that they will handle sales situations in a respectful way. Ask your Sales Associate to see a copy of his signed agreement when he comes into your home. SALES ASSOCIATE “CUSTOMER RESPECT, NO TRICKS, NO PRESSURE” AGREEMENT As a Sales Representative for Hansons, you must agree to abide by the principles and precepts of our Code of Ethics and Competency. Any violation of these principles will be grounds for written warning; multiple violations will be grounds for termination. I ________________________________ agree to abide by these guidelines when working with prospective customers/current customers for Hansons. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 16 I will not smoke inside the customer’s home. I will not use foul language on the jobsite. I will respect the customer’s time by being punctual. In the event I cannot be on time, I will call to alert the customer and reschedule if necessary. I will keep my clothing neat and clean. I will respect the customer’s telephones, bathrooms, parking spaces, etc. I will earnestly strive to find the best solution for each customer’s needs. I will not utilize high-pressure techniques to force customers to comply with my requests. I will not sell products or services to customers when they are financially not able to manage the investment. I will give all of my customers a fair price and a fair opportunity to consider their options. I will educate my customers on all sides of the purchase decision being made. I will give my customers the opportunity to express any concerns they have and work to resolve them. In the event that the customer is not ready to move forward, I will respect their decision. _________________________________ (Sales Representative Signature) _________________________________ (Date) _________________________________ (Sales Manager Signature) _________________________________ (Date) _________________________________ (Company Owner Signature) _________________________________ (Date) Contractor Standards Guide | Compliments of 1-800-HANSONS What To Look For: Worker Conduct Agreement Why It’s Important: This compliance agreement, signed by all employees, is a 17-point contract prohibiting the use of alcohol, drugs, foul language, misconduct, or other bad behavior on a jobsite. It also gives appearance standards. Keep in mind that not everything is perfect, but this agreement will greatly reduce the likelihood of problems. Hansons Standard: All Hansons Sales Associates sign a “Worker Conduct Agreement” that is also signed by our sales manager to pledge that they will conduct themselves in a respectful and courteous manner. Ask your Sales Associate to see a copy of his signed agreement when he comes into your home. What To Look For: Pre-Start Inspection Form Why It’s Important: Your home needs to be respected! There should be an inspection of the condition of your home and yard before any work is started and a review of the state of everything after the work is completed. A total home cleanup should take place to ensure that all debris, including nails and screws are disposed of properly. Make sure your contractor has a pre-determined daily jobsite cleanup routine including a more thorough process upon completion of the job. Hansons Standard: All Hansons installers follow this multi-step inspection. Show this roster to other contractors. 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Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 2ZQHUVVLJQDWXUH 'DWH 17 What To Look For: Background Checks & Drug Testing Why It’s Important: Feeling comfortable with the people that are working on your home is important. Besides appearance and conduct standards, you should insist that employees of the company that you are doing business with has a formal drug and alcohol policy, including a background check procedure. Any company that cannot supply these easy-to-obtain documents is either too careless to check or trying to conceal facts that would make them look bad. Hansons Standard: Every Hanson employee is subject to a background check and drug testing upon hiring, and is subject to random drug testing after that. Drug and Alcohol Policy Statement of Commitment The Management, Contractors and Employees of Hansons Window and Siding, hereafter referred to as the “Company”, state their common agreement that: 1. A healthy and motivated workforce is our greatest asset; 2. Employees have a basic right to a safe and healthy working environment; 3. Alcohol and drug abuse is a serious problem, which affects both health and safety. Chemical dependency is a serious and complex, but treatable condition/disease that negatively affects the personal and family lives of employees, their productivity and the stability of their workplaces; 4. Both the Management and the Employees are committed to addressing the problems of substance abuse in order to ensure the safety of the working environment, employees, and the public, and to provide employees with access to necessary treatment and rehabilitation assistance. Statement of Policy In order to assure a safe and efficient work environment, through maintaining a drug and alcohol free workplace, the following policy has been adopted to supplement existing personnel policies, practices and procedures: Impairment: No employee will report to work or will work impaired by any substance, drug or alcohol, lawful or unlawful, except with management's approval; such approval will be limited to lawful medications and based strictly on the employee's ability to perform his/her regular or other assigned duties safely and efficiently. Each employee must report the use of medically authorized drugs or other substances that can impair job performance to his/her immediate supervisor and provide proper written medical approval from a physician to work while using such authorized drugs. It is the employee's responsibility to determine from the physician whether or not the prescribed drug would impair his or her job performance. Any failure to report the use of such drugs or other substances, or failure to provide proper evidence of medical authorization, can result in disciplinary action. Possession or use: Use or possession of illegal drugs on the company worksite is strictly prohibited. The Human Resources Department will give documented evidence of illegal drug involvement to law enforcement agencies. "Worksite" means any office, building or property owned or operated by the employer, or at any other site at which an employee is to perform work for the employer. The use of alcohol is prohibited on the company worksite. If alcohol is served at official events in the community, employees are prohibited from its consumption that results in impairment. Employee taking physician-prescribed or over the counter medications must notify their Supervisor, if there is a likelihood that such medication could affect job performance or safety. Sale: An employee who is found to be a seller or involved in the sale, solicitation, or dealing in illegal drugs will be discharged from the employment of the company and the case will be turned over to local law enforcement agencies. Violation of Policy Any employee found in violation of this policy will be subject to formal disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Any employee's drug related workplace incident must be reported immediately (within 24 hours) to the Human Resource Department or their Supervisor. As a result of disciplinary action arising from a violation of this policy, or from any performance deficiency that is found to be caused by alcohol/ drug dependency, the employee will be offered the opportunity to enroll themselves (at their own expense) into an appropriate program. Enrollment and participation in the program is voluntary, and job security and promotional opportunities will not be affected by the employee's decision. Confidentiality of personal information (i.e. nature of the problem, nature of treatment) will be observed in all cases. However, when the employee accepts the offer of treatment in lieu of serious discipline, the offer of treatment and the employee's decision will be documented. In addition, it is the employee's responsibility in this situation to arrange periodic reports from the treatment center to the supervisor regarding the employee's continuing compliance with treatment centers recommendations. Employee Awareness All employees will read the company Drug Policy Statement and sign a consent statement indicating their agreement to comply with the policy. Implementation of Policy The Human Resources Department carries the primary responsibility for implementing this policy. Provisions of this policy apply equally to all employees at every level within the organization. Employees carry the primary responsibility for productive work performance, and for addressing personal problems that interfere with performance. Treatment Programs The Company recognizes its commitment and responsibility to employees therefore any employee who would like the opportunity to deal with drug and alcohol related problems would be given any time needed to complete treatment. The Human Resources Department will monitor follow-up care, as part of a comprehensive alcohol and drug treatment program. An employee's refusal to accept recommendations for diagnosis and treatment, while in itself is not a cause for disciplinary action, will be handled by dealing with the performance problem according to normal disciplinary procedures. Depending upon the nature of the conduct which led to the employee's mandated participation in an alcohol and drug treatment program, the employee may be required to submit to random blood and/or urine screening for alcohol and/or drugs for a specified period of time to meet various performance standards which are imposed as a condition of continuing employment. Testing Hansons Window and Siding will test employees for drug use under the conditions listed below. Any employee who refuses to submit to testing for drugs under these conditions will be subject to immediate suspension or immediate discharge. A complete testing policy also includes procedures for carrying out the drug testing procedures. Consult a drug testing collection site or laboratory for details. Pre-Employment Screening All new hires will be required to submit to a drug screening before reporting to work. The testing facility designated by management, will administer the drug testing. On a positive test result, the results will be sent to us by the lab stating “not employable”. . New hires will be permitted to begin working before the test results are available under the assumption that they will come back employable. 18 Contractor Standards Guide | Compliments of 1-800-HANSONS 800-HANSONS EXCLUSIVE ON-TIME FINISH GUARANTEE Which promises we'll keep the finish date, no excuses. Customer Signature 1-800-HANSONS Representative Signature * See Hansons.com for details REV. 10/10 What To Look For: On-Time Finish Guarantee Why It’s Important: Everyone has heard the horror story of remodeling jobs that dragged on for weeks (or even months!) past the originally promised finish date. This is generally when a contractor a) is overbooked and is pushing your job to low priority, b) is financially unable to purchase materials for your job and is waiting for payments from other customers to pay for yours, or c) is simply disorganized and/or lazy. Regardless, you lose. A reputable contractor won’t just promise a finish date, they’ll guarantee it in writing. Ask for this document before you start to prevent heartache and headache during the job. Hansons Standard: Hansons finishes its jobs on-time! With very few exceptions, we keep our word when it comes to a completion date. It’s typically weather related issues that slow us down, but we will keep you informed every step of the way. Questions? Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 19 Workmanship Ultimately, any contractor has to be competent to do the job right the first time. Competence comes as a result of training, experience, and good old-fashioned hard work. As you evaluate a contractor, look for signs that they can do the job right the first time. What To Look For: Certified Installers Why It’s Important: The best product in the world won’t do its job if it is improperly installed. One of the biggest challenges remodeling companies face is finding qualified installers; that’s why you should always insist on doing business with companies that have certification programs for their installers. These programs may be administered either through their suppliers, or in-house. Companies that don’t take the time to train and certify their installers are likely hiring the least-employable and least experienced workers in the marketplace, which could have obvious negative consequences. Hansons Standard: Hansons actually turns down more installer applicants than it accepts—most installers cannot meet our standards or pass our tests. When they are hired, they must pass through our rigorous “HANSONS UNIVERSITY” to learn our methods and pass tests showing they have the proper knowledge. 20 Contractor Standards Guide | Compliments of HANSONS "2+8=98= /bMV_]S`OCOK\ 0RQH\%DFN*XDUDQWHH If you find a comparable product for less money, we’ll refund you the difference, up to one year! -_]^YWO\=SQXK^_\O "2+8=98=<OZ\O]OX^K^S`O=SQXK^_\O 6HHUHYHUVHVLGHIRUGHWDLOV </@ What To Look For: Money Back Guarantee Why It’s Important: Nobody wants to make a significant investment in their home, only to find out that a competitor offered the same thing for less money a few weeks or months later. Make sure that any contractor you hire protects your investment by offering you an “apples to apples” price difference guarantee. They should offer to refund the difference for at least 6 months after your purchase. Hansons Standard: We will refund the difference on an “apples to apples” basis for up to 12 months after the date of your install. With Hansons you are always protected from high prices. Questions? Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 21 What To Look For: Lifetime and Worry-Free Guarantees Why It’s Important: Less than 1% of contractors nationwide offer the ultimate level of protection against problems a homeowner might experience with their home improvement job: The “Lifetime Plus” and “Worry-Free Guarantee.” These guarantees work in tandem to ensure that you only ever pay for your project ONCE; if anything EVER goes wrong, the contractor should make it right. This includes a lifetime guarantee on the product, a lifetime guarantee on labor and installation, and even a lifetime guarantee on glass breakage for windows. And if, for any reason, the product completely fails, the contractor should offer you your money back. It’s like a lifetime “lemon law” for home improvement. It allows you, the homeowner, to be confident before, during, and long after you do business with the contractor. Hansons Standard: We pioneered this ultimate level of protection over 25 years ago and are proud to continue to be one of the very few contractors in the country to offer it. 800-HANSONS EXCLUSIVE :255<)5((*8$5$17(( Which promises we will make it right or give you your money back. -_]^YWO\=SQXK^_\O "2+8=98=<OZ\O]OX^K^S`O=SQXK^_\O 6HH+DQVRQVFRPIRUGHWDLOV </@ Exclusive “Lifetime Plus” Fully Transferable 3 3 3 3 GUARANTEE .KHGVKOG2TQFWEV)WCTCPVGG .KHGVKOG2CTVU)WCTCPVGG .KHGVKOG9QTMOCPUJKR)WCTCPVGG Plus! Lifetime Glass Breakage & Screen Repair Guarantee* %UHDNDJHWR'RRUZDOOVDQG3LFWXUH:LQGRZVDUHFRYHUHGE\+RPHRZQHU¶V,QVXUDQFHDQG+DQVRQV¶ZLOOFRYHU\RXUGHGXFWLEOH 0HVK2QO\RIFRXUVH6FUHHQVPXVWEHGURSSHGRIIDW+DQVRQV¶IRU5HSDLU </@! 22 Contractor Standards Guide | Compliments of 1-800-HANSONS What To Look For: Project Photos for Ideas & Inspiration Why It’s Important: A contractor who serves his customers well should be proud to present pictures of the work they’ve done. Ask to see samples of jobs they’ve done—for inspiration for your own project and to gauge the quality of the work they’ve done in the past. If no photos can be produced, that should be a major warning sign. Hansons Standard: Here are a few photos of the TENS OF THOUSANDS of jobs we’ve done over the last 25 years. Questions? Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 23 24 Contractor Standards Guide | Compliments of 1-800-HANSONS Questions? Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 25 Frequently Asked Questions Q: Are you saying that you are the only company in the Q: Are there any other things I should look for or watch area that can uphold these standards? out for that aren’t listed in the pages of this guide? A: Most companies cannot uphold them, but there are A: Look for some of these telltale signs of contractors who several good, honest contractors to be found. Just be sure shouldn’t be trusted: to take the time and use this guide to make sure before t you hire anyone. Main phone numbers that ring to cell phones or are never answered by receptionists Q: Can a contractor just “fake” these standards? t Trucks without signage on them t No business cards or cheap business cards to just move on to their next unsuspecting victim. t No company logo on work clothes/uniform Q: What if a contractor says they can do all these things, t Few references available t Unresolved BBB complaints or no report at all t Prices that are unusually low compared to other bids t No website or very poor website t Unwillingness to give any information A: Not likely. Most shady contractors that don’t put any effort into making their businesses good, also won’t put effort into faking these standards. It’s a lot easier for them but can’t show the proof? A: Don’t settle for lip service. Demand to see the documentation for every single standard on the checklist at the end of this guide. An Ounce Of Prevention... It’s been said that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. When the stakes are high—your home and your wallet—that saying is even more true. We hope that by reading this guide you feel more prepared to evaluate home improvement contractors and make the best decision for your family. 26 Contractor Standards Guide | Compliments of 1-800-HANSONS In Conclusion When you’re hiring someone to do any type of work on Remember that when HANSONS visits your home, we are your home, remember it’s your money and your home. Be not going to use high-pressure sales tactics. It is simply sure you get everything in writing, ask all the questions on a chance for you to meet us and see if our services can your mind and clearly understand the answers you receive. benefit you. If, after our meeting, you believe there is no Besides what we’ve mentioned here, there are several other ways to gather information on a company before giving anyone a dime. Check with consumer-to-consumer reporting groups like the Better Business Bureau, at www.BBB.org, Google Reviews, or other online review web sites. benefit to be derived from working with us, we simply leave and that is that. If, however, you do find that you would like our help, we will discuss how we proceed from there. I can’t think of a better way to work. Can you? If you think our approach is fair and honest, please If all this makes sense, and you are curious about our approach to home improvement, please give us a call. We’ll be happy to answer all of your questions for free. As part of our commitment to our previous and potential consider HANSONS for your construction needs. Best of luck with your remodeling plans! Sincerely, new customers, at your request, we will set up a time to come to your home to answer your questions and concerns. At this time we can also determine if we can meet your home improvement needs. We provide this as a BRIAN ELIAS FREE, NO OBLIGATION service for you and your family. President of 1-800-HANSONS Hopefully we can show you, as we have thousands of 18004267667 others, how to make your home absolutely gorgeous— something to be really proud of! Questions? Need More Information? | 1-800-HANSONS | Hansons.com 27 Contractor Checklist For your convenience, we’ve included a checklist of all the questions you’ll want to ask before hiring any contractor. What To Look For Company Tangibles Bank Letter & Supplier Letter Business License Insurance Debt Status of Company BBB Letter Memberships Customer References and Online Reviews Accolades and Awards Direct Access to the Company Owner Multiple Product Options Detailed Bid Specs and Price Integrity No Tricks, No Pressure Sales Agreement Pre-Start Inspection Form Worker Conduct Agreement Background Checks & Drug Testing On-Time Finish Guarantee Certified Installers Money-Back Guarantee Lifetime and Worry-Free Guarantees Project Photos for Ideas & Inspiration HANSONS 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 Questions? Need More Information? | Call 1-800-HANSONS Contractor A Contractor B