Directory FAQ

The questions themselves

1. How do you decide which contractors to recommend?

   We check three things before listing anyone: whether they're trained to their trade association's standards, whether they maintain proper insurance, and whether they have a track record of standing behind their work. We don't list every contractor who asks — we list the ones we'd recommend to a neighbor.

2. What if I have a bad experience?

   Let us know. We want to hear about it, and we take reports of poor work seriously. If a pattern emerges, we'll remove them from our list. We're here to protect the community, not the contractors.

3. How much does it cost to use the directory?

   Nothing. The Massachusetts Registry is a free resource for residents. We don't charge to search, browse, or connect with contractors. We also don't charge contractors to be listed — we add them because they meet our standards, not because they've paid an advertising fee.

4. Why should I use this instead of just searching online?

   A web search returns whoever spent the most on advertising, not necessarily who does the best work. We do the vetting work for you. Every contractor here has passed our screening, which means you're starting from a smaller, better-vetted pool instead of sorting through hundreds of results to separate the qualified from the mediocre.

5. Can I suggest a contractor?

   Yes. If you've had a great experience with someone who isn't listed yet, head to the Suggest a Business page and tell us about them. We'll review the recommendation and reach out to verify their credentials and insurance.

6. What does an ENERGY STAR window rating actually mean?

   The rating comes from the National Fenestration Rating Council, the independent nonprofit that certifies the energy performance of windows, doors and skylights — which is what lets you compare two window brands on more than price. An ENERGY STAR window means it meets specific efficiency standards set by the EPA, so you know your investment will actually reduce heating and cooling costs, not just sound good on the showroom floor.

The one that comes up most

How do I know they're actually insured?

It's the right question to ask. Every contractor on our list maintains current liability and workers compensation insurance. If you want to verify it yourself, ask them for their insurance certificate before work starts — a legitimate contractor will provide it instantly. If they hesitate or make excuses, that's a red flag.