How to choose the right conservatory company

Installing a conservatory or orangery to your home can be one of the best moves you ever make. A bespoke conservatory not only creates a light-filled extension to your living space that you can enjoy all year round, but it can also give your property a completely new look – and even increase its value.

However, it’s a big decision to make and you need to get it right. The most important thing is to choose the right company to do the job. Ordering a conservatory from a firm that does not meet your requirements could well end up being more expensive in the long term. Here are some points to consider when choosing a conservatory installer:

Look for a firm that has done similar jobs to yours

There are several major companies advertising nationally that offer conservatories but while these may seem a straightforward option, it’s worth spending your time researching some smaller local companies.  These smaller companies often provide a more customised service that incorporates the full journey, from design, right through to the electrics and plumbing.  Our customers are not just numbers to us, but part of our ever growing family. If you decide to go with a local firm, you then have the choice between a specialist conservatory installer or a general builder. According to research by Which?, nearly three-quarters of customers looking to install a conservatory choose a local independent conservatory installer for the job. To help you find the right company for your requirements, here are some questions you should ask:

Do they cover your local area?

The first thing to check is whether the company covers your local area. If they’ve installed conservatories in your neighbourhood, it makes it much easier to see the standard of work that they’ve carried out for yourself.

Do they have satisfied customers?

One of the best ways to judge a firm is on its reputation with its customers. Choose a company that is well established in the area and has a good record of customer satisfaction. Take a look at testimonials from satisfied clients; click here to read about some of our recently completed installations.

What services do they offer?

Not all firms offer the same level of services. Check whether they offer a free initial consultation and whether they will take care of the whole process from start to finish, including electrical work, plumbing, plastering, decorating and finishing,
Have they installed similar conservatories before?

Do they have any trade accreditation?

Accreditation is also important; look out for certificates such as membership of the FENSA (Fenestration Self-Assessment) Scheme. This allows firms that install double glazed windows, doors and conservatories to self-certify their work without the need to wait for Building Control assessment from the local authority.

Are they familiar with planning permission?

The installer should be familiar with the planning permission and building regulations. Most conservatories do not require planning permission as long as certain requirements are met but it is crucial that the company is aware of them before work begins. In other cases, for example, if your property is in a conservation area or is a listed building, you will need planning permission. Mistakes are costly to rectify and you could be fined.

Do they use subcontractors?

Ask if the firm plans to use subcontractors to carry out any of the work. For example, will they be using self-employed specialist tradesmen to dig the foundations or fit the glazing or the electrics? If your installer is planning to subcontract some of the work, you should be informed of this early in the process as it can complicate matters as to the responsibility for any problems that may arise. It can also affect the guarantee that the company gives. It’s a far better option to choose a company that employs its own teams of experienced tradesmen so that the job is carried out smoothly and to a highly professional standard.

Are you comfortable dealing with them?

Are you comfortable dealing with the company and do you feel confident that their tradesmen are competent and experienced? You don’t necessarily have to become best friends with your chosen installer but everyone in the team must be able to communicate well with you and understand your requirements exactly.

A local conservatory company offering a full range of services

As a local company with numerous 5-star reviews from satisfied clients and thousands of successfully completed installations, you can be confident that we are the best choice to bring your ideal conservatory to life. We provide a full range of services with our own skilled tradesmen, from design and manufacture to installation, electrics, plumbing and finishing. We will take care of your project from start to finish with the minimum of fuss and disruption and you will soon be enjoying the extra space provided by your conservatory.