If you’re looking to hire an integrator to turn your home technology dream into a reality, you’ve found the right post.  Before you hire him/her, it’s important to get to know their professional history and track record.

Below is a list of questions you should ask to ensure you’re hiring a skilled individual and/or company:

1. Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

By working with a licensed, bonded, and insured integrator, you as the customer will be completed protected in almost any circumstance, such as damage occurring during the installation.

-Bonded: A bonding company has secured money that is available to you the consumer in the event you have to file a claim against the integration company. The secured money is in the control of the state, a bond, and not under the control of the integration company.

-Licensed: All dealers and professional should carry all necessary state licenses that may be necessary to show that they are competent and permitted to conduct business in the city, municipality, or state in which the license was issued.

2. Can you provide me a list of references, earned certificate(s), and a portfolio?

It’s good for the integrator to keep a portfolio of past jobs they have completed – this includes before & after pictures. It’s also a good idea to have industry certifications on all communications which will provide you, the end-user, peace-of-mind.

3. Will it meet my needs?

Most end-users want a specific end-result, as I’m sure you can relate. It’s important to be sure that the integrator is aware of the use-case scenario and that it lives up to your projected idea and expectations.

4. Will this installation be future-proofed? 

With the amount of money you’re spending, make sure there is enough flexibility/infrastructure installed to support newer formats as technology progresses, which it inevitably will.