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Window Installation Deception

  • 11 Aug 2021 10:41 AM
    Message # 10924759
    Anonymous

    Good Morning All,

    I have just gone through a rather uncomfortable post retrofit evaluation to validate a clients windows for the Enbridge rebate program. The only requirement is that they be EnergyStar certified. I will start by saying the client should have been more diligent during the ordering and quoting phase, but what occurred after is what bothers me.

    After installation, for rebate validation, the window supplier/installer supplied EnergyStar certified window detail information that did not match the windows installed, and were in fact not certified. This was affirmed by contacting the manufacturer directly.

    Looking for advice on how I or the client can take action against this, and hopefully prevent it in the future.

  • 12 Aug 2021 11:41 AM
    Reply # 10927223 on 10924759

    Hi David,

    This issue is something I've been a bit worried with myself as we have been dealing with clients with the Greener Homes program who have already "ordered windows" and are hoping that they comply. Some window supply companies we've been working with are absolutely not helpful in cross referencing their own products against the NRCan listed eligible windows as their product line names on the quotes often are not the exact same name as listed on the website. When requesting that they due their own due diligence on their end for their own clients, there is a ton of pushback. As an EA, it's not necessarily our responsibility entirely and there needs to be cooperation between the two industries for our mutual clients. Luckily, at this point, we haven't run into your issue. 

    In this situation, I would contact the supplier directly with the quote and photo evidence of the windows installed and let them know that there are discrepancies and that the windows quoted qualified for rebate, while the ones installed did not. Ensure it is in writing as well. It will be up to them to rectify this situation on their end and fortunately, you have done all that you can do as an EA. I would also connect with Enbridge to let them know of this issue in advance. They will provide guidance for conflict resolution pertaining to their program. 

    This is a good example of why it's important to review quotes from suppliers in advance and I think you did your due diligence to prevent this from occurring, but this situation is the window suppliers responsibility to resolve. Good luck and please keep us posted. 

  • 24 Aug 2021 9:58 AM
    Reply # 10952878 on 10924759

    Windows and Energy Star labelling of them is a topic all on its own.  All the concerns are attempted to be addressed on the technical committee through a specific "window working" group lead by Gord Cooke.

  • 25 Aug 2021 8:53 AM
    Reply # 10955503 on 10924759
    Anonymous

    I will send this concern to the Window associations and ask them to connect to their members to assist as the round table is not taking place until October.   IT does not reflect well on them either.


  • 26 Aug 2021 1:52 PM
    Reply # 10958839 on 10924759
    Anonymous

    Thank you all for your feed back and support. 

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