Customer Satisfaction - Guarantees and Policies

Your best protection is to get everything in writing. You're going to hear all kinds of promises but they don't mean a thing unless you've got it written down on company stationery and signed by the salesperson.

Ask what kind of policy they have regarding your satisfaction. Forget warranties and service agreements. What will they do if you're not happy with their work?

Some companies offer complete money-back guarantees. Some promise to replace your new equipment with another brand. Again, these promises mean nothing if the company disappears once they get your money or their guarantee isn't in writing.

If the company is a member of the Better Business Bureau, they may belong to the Customer Care program and "Pledge to Arbitrate". If they do, you are more likely to reach a satisfactory conclusion if you're not happy with your new system.