The Dealer:

• How long has the dealer been in business and under the same ownership? STE-COM has been in business, with the same ownership for since 1981. Vendors come in and out of business, are bought by other companies, or change ownership. You will be dealing with the vendor for the entire life of the phone system. Be sure to compare and ask questions.

• Is the dealer a factory authorized dealer? Are all the technicians factory certified on the equipment? STE-COM can answer YES to both questions.

• Look in the Yellow Pages. If a dealer carries many brands, it’s a good bet that they are not factory authorized dealers, or carry the brands that are easy to obtain. STE-COM specializes and only carries the Toshiba, from a division of Toshiba with very stringent dealer standards and requirements.

• Avoid "Supply House" Systems. Many dealers buy systems from supply houses. Some are very good dealers. Others just read the manual to learn how to install and set up systems. They may outsource their installation or maintenance to independent technicians. STE-COM has factory certified technicians for Toshiba. All are employed by STE-COM. We don’t use sub-contractors in Central Florida.

• Does the dealer install additional lightning protection and offer a warranty? Some dealers add additional lightning protection, but offer no additional warranty. Others add no protection at all. STE-COM understands that Florida has lots of lightning storms, and your system needs additional protection. We include a lightning protection package and guarantee with every system. 

• Does the dealer have a Trade-up policy in writing? STE-COM gives a generous allowance towards any upgrade for the first three years.

• What kind of training will you and your staff receive… and for how long? Some dealers offer 30-90 days or less at no cost, then they bill you. Others offer training only during the warranty period. STE-COM is unique by offering free training and re-training for as long as you own the system.

• Check for non-warranty service charges, travel charges, overtime charges or any hidden charges. STE-COM currently charges $110.00 per hour (one hour minimum) for non-warranty service, with no overtime, travel or hidden charges. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Will the dealer give you guaranteed future equipment prices for as long as you own the system? STE-COM puts them in writing.