Why Trust Matters When Choosing A Home Improvement Company
20th May 2026
A lack of trust in builders and home improvement companies is now costing the UK economy billions of pounds each year, according to new research from the Federation of Master Builders and the HomeOwners Alliance.
The research found that one in five homeowners have delayed work because they could not find a builder they trusted, with the FMB estimating that this lack of consumer confidence is costing the UK economy £11.2bn a year. It also found that 82% of homeowners would be willing to pay more to hire a licensed builder with proven competence, while 68% said mandatory licensing would increase their confidence.
For homeowners, this highlights an important point: choosing the right company is not just about finding the cheapest quote. It is about protecting your home, your money, and your peace of mind.
This is especially true when investing in major home improvements such as new windows, doors, conservatories, or extensions. These are not small, throwaway purchases. They are long-term improvements to your property, and poor workmanship can lead to leaks, draughts, structural issues, costly repairs, and unnecessary stress.
At EYG, we have seen first-hand the problems homeowners can face when work is carried out badly. In a previous case, our team was asked to help a customer after another company had installed a replacement polycarbonate conservatory roof to a very poor standard. The roof had been fitted quickly, but the finish was untidy, trims were loose or warped, screws were visible, seals had been poorly applied, and unsuitable flashing tape had been used externally instead of a more appropriate waterproofing solution.
The customer understandably did not want the original company back in her home, meaning the work had to be corrected at further cost.
Cases like this are exactly why homeowners should take time to properly research any business before agreeing to work.
Checks to make before choosing a home improvement company
1. Look for recognised industry accreditations
The glazing and home improvement industry has important standards in place, and reputable companies should be able to show evidence of the accreditations they hold.
For windows and doors, homeowners should look for companies registered with schemes such as FENSA, which helps ensure installations comply with relevant Building Regulations. Membership of trade bodies such as the Glass and Glazing Federation is also a positive sign, as these organisations are linked to industry standards, consumer protection, and professional conduct.
2. Check independent reviews, not just website testimonials
A company’s own website will naturally show its best feedback. That is why it is important to look at independent review platforms, Google reviews, social media comments, and third-party sites.
A strong review profile built over time is usually a better indicator than a handful of testimonials on a company’s own website. Be cautious if a business has very few visible reviews, no independent feedback, or only recently created review profiles.
3. Search the business properly online
Before placing an order, search the company name on Google. Look beyond the website itself.
You should expect to find a reasonable digital footprint, including reviews, social media pages, previous projects, local mentions, industry listings, accreditations, and clear contact information.
A professional-looking website is not enough on its own. It is now relatively easy for any business to create a polished online presence, so it is important to check what sits behind it.
4. Look at how long the company has been trading
A quick Companies House search can tell you when a business was incorporated, who the directors are, and whether the company has filed accounts.
This does not mean every newer business should be dismissed, but if a company claims to have decades of experience, its official records and wider trading history should support that claim.
5. Ask about guarantees and warranties
Good companies should be clear about the guarantees and warranties they provide. However, a warranty is only as reliable as the company standing behind it.
That is why it is sensible to consider the company’s trading history, financial stability, and reputation before relying on any long-term guarantee.
6. Check whether finance options are available
Finance options are not essential for every customer, but their availability can be a useful trust signal. Companies offering regulated finance usually have to meet certain checks and standards, which can provide additional reassurance.
It also gives homeowners more flexibility when planning larger projects.
Why choosing the cheapest quote can cost more in the long run
With household costs still high, it is understandable that many homeowners compare quotes carefully. Price matters.
However, the cheapest quote is not always the best value. A poorly installed window, door, conservatory roof, or extension can end up costing far more if it needs to be repaired, replaced, or corrected later.
The FMB’s research shows that homeowners are not simply reluctant to spend money. Many are delaying essential work because they do not feel confident about who to trust.
That is why proper research matters. Taking a little more time at the start can help avoid major problems later.
Why choose EYG?
EYG has been improving homes since 1971 and has grown to become one of the UK’s largest double-glazing and home improvement companies.
We design, manufacture, and install a wide range of home improvement products, including windows, doors, conservatories, orangeries, home extensions, solid tiled conservatory roofs, and garden rooms.
Our business is built on long-standing values of reliability, quality, and trust. We are a FENSA registered company, a member of the Glass and Glazing Federation, and our products are Secured by Design, a recognised police-backed standard for security.
We are also a well-established, financially stable business with decades of experience behind us, giving customers confidence that we will be here to support them long after installation day.
When improving your home, trust should never be an afterthought. It should be one of the first things you check.
