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There are several things to remember for the most trouble-free installation of your new Andersen or Crestline replacement windows.

Ask your contractor / supplier for a written lien waiver. Employees, subcontractors, and suppliers have the right in most jurisdictions to file mechanics liens against your property if the contractor does not pay them. Even though you may have paid your contractor for those materials or work, if he doesn't meet his financial obligations, the workmen or suppliers can look to you for payment. After you pay the contractor, make sure to get copies of lien waivers to protect yourself from having to pay for the job twice.

If you require permits for your work, make sure your contractor pulls the necessary building permits. This will ensure that things are done to code. You should know that many homeowners' insurance policies make it a requirement that you pull a permit if you're going to do any major remodeling, so that your home continues to be properly covered. Some contractors would rather not pull permits because it takes of their time and involves extra difficulty because they then must deal with inspectors. In some cases, contractors may ask you to get the permits yourself. This could in fact be a warning to you that they can't pull the permits because they are unlicensed or that the work is outside of their license requirements.

Most Andersen or Crestline replacement window projects do not require permits. However, in the instance of enlarging an opening and installing a new header permits are required. Another area to watch is if a bedroom window has a change of style, the building department will require the new style to conform to the egress code. Many contractors will arrange permits at an additional cost - since it consumes more of their time. Some will simply ask you to pay for permits, which they will arrange for on your behalf. If permits are required for your work then make sure your contractor pulls the required building permits. This way you will know things will be done to "code". Note: many homeowners insurance policies require pulling a permit on any major remodeling to keep your home properly covered. Some contractors prefer not to pull permits because of the time involved and the "hassle" with the inspectors. Some contractors may even ask you to get the permits. This could be a warning sign that they are not able to pull the permits because they are unlicensed, or the work is outside of their license."

Always ask your supplier how long the delivery will be. It's also a good idea to have this stipulated on your contract. Additionally ask for an estimate of how long the work will take to complete once they are on site. One major problem with the window, siding and roofing business is that anyone with a pickup truck and a ladder can easily call themselves a contractor. Many do not even bother to get a proper license. (Incidentally a license can easily be obtained by filling out a simple application form and payment of less than $200.00 per year). These contractors are not required to have an office, they can work out of their basement, back yard or just out of their pickup truck. It's easy to get into the business and it's even easier to get out of the business. For this reason in particular we only recommend you deal with established contractors who have a supporting infrastructure.

In order to ensure that you get the best work out of the contractor or supplier, you should make sure that you are professional but friendly. Of course, it's true that you don't want to "buddy up" with anyone working for you, but neither should you treat contractors or suppliers as though they are out to get you and are crooks. In fact, this is only going to hurt your relationship with them, as well as the process itself. Friendly, fair professionalism is always the best choice. Stay on top of things and watch carefully, but be prepared to listen to any advice given to you, especially if problems come up while the work is taking place.