What to look for when selecting an ethical Sign Company:

1. Ask the Company to show you a copy of their insurance cover letter.
2. Check for a permanent place of business, telephone number and a business license.
3. Don't hesitate to ask for proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance. If a person is injured while installing your sign you may be open to lawsuit if the business is not properly insured. Why take the risk?
4. An ethical company should have no problem providing you with a list of references.
5. Ask them to explain their complaint process, if you have a concern or a complaint.
6. Insist on a written proposal on company letterhead. Before you sign a contract make sure you understand all the terms of the agreement and make sure it provides detailed information on the work to be performed.
7. Ask the Company to explain their warranty thoroughly.
8. Make sure the Company is comfortable with you getting more than one estimate.
9. Ask the Company if they are members of any professional trade organizations.
10. Ask the Company to explain thoroughly all their different product lines. Make sure the product you select meets your needs as to price, look, durability and care. Verify what is being installed is exactly what you are paying for. 
11. Make sure they utilize qualified installers.
12. Installation is very important. The install is just as important as the product.
13. If the company uses subcontractors, call the subcontractors and make sure the company pays them in a timely manner. Remember by law, the subcontractors can place a lien on your business if the contractor fails to pay them.
14. Have them thoroughly explain the care process required to maintain the sign.

Also, in this category it is very difficult to receive accurate prices over the phone. Before, selecting a sign company it is wise to visit the location and determine the exact specifics for the sign. That way you may compare apples to apples. Many businesses will “low-ball” the price over the phone. Please make sure you get everything in writing.

What to avoid when selecting a business in this industry:

1. Companies that will not show you proof of their insurance. 
2. Companies that do not appear to be professional.
3. Companies that play price games.
4. Companies that will not provide you a detailed estimate. 
5. Companies that ask for excessive deposits.
6. Companies that apply pressure to purchase today.
7. Companies that will not let you call past customers.
8. You get what you pay for. If you want qualified and insured installers, you may need to pay a little more, but in most cases its money well spent.
9. Companies that make guarantees that appear too good to be true.