Greater San Antonio Builders Association

Have you ever thought of getting a home theater system installed in your home? If you are thinking about just such a project, you should choose the company that will do the installation just as carefully as you would choose the primary contractor for a larger job.

Here are ten helpful items you should consider and address before you decide on who is putting in your system:

1. Does the company have liability insurance?
The installer should have this insurance, and it should be at least $1,000,000. If the workers accidentally drill through a water pipe or weaken the house structure, the insurance is there to cover it.
2. Is there a showroom for you to visit?
You should be able to go to the company's showroom and see -- as well as hear -- firsthand what you are purchasing. You probably wouldn't get this chance if they operated out of a garage.
3. Is there a written warranty?
The company you choose should have a warranty on workmanship, and this should be for at least ten years.
4. Does the company have certification and training in the industry?
The company should be certified and its workers should be trained. Ask to see certifications of "Design & Installation" in this industry.
5. Is the company an authorized dealer?
Some warranties for products do not apply if the purchase was made from a dealer not authorized by the manufacturer. Check with the company you are considering to find out if they are authorized dealers for the products they sell.
6. Is there a list of referrals?
Referrals are the best testimonials. Ask for a list of referrals -- if one is not already offered -- and check them out.
7. Does the company have the proper equipment?
You may not know exactly what they need to get the job done, but check to see if they have such things as a digital spectrum analyzer, digital RF meters, and so on.
8. Does the company belong to any trade associations?
Usually trade associations require certain minimum standards of members, and there are audio/video trade associations.
9. Is there any published literature?
Ask for brochures, catalogs, and other such literature. This will give you written-out information that you can peruse at your leisure.
10. Is audio/video the company's primary business?
Be cautious with those who say they do it all. It could be to your advantage for you to hire a company who specializes in installing audio/visual equipment.

Oli Gulyas of Innovations in Home Theater is a member of the Greater San Antonio Builders Association Remodelors Council.

Ten Tips To Picking A Home Theater Installer/Company