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Checklist: choosing a dormer company

The company you choose determines the quality of the work, the clarity of the contract and the speed of aftercare. Use this checklist to compare them fairly.

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Short answer

Choose the company that gives a clear scope, strong warranty, fair payment schedule and good references. The cheapest quote is rarely the best value, and pressure to sign is a red flag.

Quality and reliability

A reliable company has a track record you can verify. Ask for recent references, visit finished work if possible, and check how long they have been installing dormers.

References — at least two recent projects similar to yours.
Insurance — public liability and works cover.
Trade body — membership or insurance-backed scheme.
Experience — specialism in dormers, not general roofing.

Quote and contract

The quote should be detailed enough to compare with others. The contract should protect both sides and clearly state what happens if things go wrong.

Scope and dimensions in writing.
Materials named by brand or grade.
Payment schedule with final retention.
Warranty length and who backs it.
Permit responsibility spelled out.

Red flags

Pressure to sign on the first visit.
No measurements taken.
Large upfront deposit required.
Vague scope or generic materials.
No written warranty.
Poor communication during the quote phase.

The full checklist

Checklist

Before choosing a company

01I received at least three written quotes.
02All quotes are based on the same brief.
03The company has recent references for similar work.
04Insurance and trade body cover are confirmed.
05The company specialises in dormers.
06The quote names materials, brands or grades.
07The payment schedule is fair and split.
08The warranty is written and insurance-backed if possible.
09Permit responsibility is clear.
10There was no pressure to sign immediately.

FAQ

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01What should I check before choosing a dormer company?

References, recent work, warranty terms, insurance, trade body membership, and how clearly they communicate. Price alone is a poor guide.

02How many quotes should I request?

At least three. Comparing three written quotes on the same brief makes it much easier to spot differences.

03Should I check online reviews?

Yes, but read them critically. Look for patterns about communication, delays, leaks and aftercare rather than one-star outliers.

04What is a warning sign during a first meeting?

Pressure to sign immediately, vague scope, no measurements, reluctance to put details in writing, or a large upfront deposit.

Conclusie

Choosing a company is the single most important decision in the project. A good company makes the rest feel straightforward; a cheap one can make every stage feel uncertain.