Depending where you live, you may be able to look out your window and see gorgeous Grouse Mountain or maybe Granville Island or False Creek or any of the other marvels that Vancouver has to offer up. But while you're peering out your window do you feel a draft? If its allergy season is your nose stuffed up and are your eyes watering? Well if you experience any of those symptoms then it's a good bet that your house windows are not doing the job they were designed to do.

When your windows are shut they should let in natural light but keep the great outdoors...outdoors. If your windows are drafty and leaky, it's time to consider a replacement window project. Ill-fitting windows can cost you a fortune in heating and air conditioner costs and when you compare the cost of replacement windows to the reduction in your utilities bill you'll agree it's time to seek out a Vancouver window replacement contractor.

Here at Handy Canadian we have compiled a comprehensive directory of Vancouver contractors that offer window replacement services. Each listing will give you a quick description of their operation, their service area, contact info and ratings and reviews from former clients who found them on Handy Canadian. Our directory is a great place to start your search for skilled and professional window replacement companies.

But...just finding a contractor who looks like a perfect fit is not enough to ensure you're going to get done what you want to get done. Like any other project you want to be comfortable with your contractor and you want to be able to trust them to do a quality job. So the first thing you want to do before you sign a contract is check out these four basic qualifications:

• Vancouver requires that every business hold a valid city Business License. If your contractor is located in one of the surrounding communities check with that city hall to see if a business license is required. Have a look at the license and then call the issuing department to see if it is current and valid.
• While most window replacement projects will not require a permit from the city don't take the risk. Call the permit department and find out for certain that no permit is required. However, if you are replacing a standard window with  plate glass architectural window or bay window, don't be surprised if a permit is required particularly if the installation involves relocating an electrical outlet.
• Don't assume that the contractor carries enough or even appropriate insurance to protect you during the project. Get a copy of the certificate of insurance and call the issuing agency and have them confirm the coverage. Of particular concern is whether or not the contractor has workman's compensation coverage for his employees and subs. If he doesn't, you are on the hook should a worker become injured on the job.
• Reputation can be a deal maker or a deal breaker. Confirming past performance is the best way to predict future performance. Take the time to thoroughly check out the contractor's reference even though they are likely to be stellar. Check with the Vancouver Better Business bureau and see if they have rated the company. Also determine if the Bureau has any unresolved complaints lodged against the contractor.

Cost is always a consideration in a window replacement project or any project for that matter. Don't be tempted by the ultra-low quotes that you get. There's a reason they are so low and that usually means the contractor is taking short cuts in licensing, insurance or the quality of supplies. Determine what the reasonable price range is and then negotiate with the contractors you have thoroughly checked out.

You'll be happy you went the extra mile.

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