A partial list of problems follows:
1) Siding is face nailed, not blind nailed as specified in contract
2) Nails are deeply overdriven throughout
3) Some pieces of siding and trim are cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged
4) Gaps around pipes/cables are very large and poorly done
5) Guest bathroom window is no longer flush with wall
6) Too many nails throughout (on siding as well as trim)
7) Trim improperly installed along bottom of wall in one place (should not need trim here)
8) Many nails are not driven perpendicular; some are hammered flat sideways on the siding
9) Many areas of the house are still exposed to weather with no house wrap (since last week)
10) Trim leaves holes along interface between siding and masonry. Also not flush with garage doors.

2. Contact Hardie Customer Service to get their input: Is there really such a thing as a "gold-certified" installer (I didn't find any reference to this on their web site)? Does Hardie care that someone is doing a crappy job with their product? What standards should you expect?

3. Talk with the installer to determine what's going on, and be firm about what you expect and why you're dissatisfied. Then decide if you're willing to have the installer continue.

4. Talk with a lawyer...you may need one to get out of the contract and collect damages.

It's hard to tell what is going on here, but it sounds like you have some incompetent people on this job. Time to get tough....

(1) get the name & phone # of everybody you speak to at your contractor & Hardie
(2) Take notes, write them up ASAP after each conversation, and mail a copy or fax to the party you've spoken to (the last only if you think that's appropriate). But definitely start a folder with written documention of every contact, verbal and written, in person or remote, regarding this matter.

Do NOT depend on your memory for dates, exact phrases, etc. You need documentation for the facts to back up your complaint, as necessary.

Following the installation manual is the best way to get it installed correctly.

There are other things that pro's just know.

For example:

Nails must be flush with siding panel.

Build out the bath/guest room window so it's not recessed.

Build out around garage door trim so it's not recessed.

Gap at masonry and siding will be caulked with an elastomeric caulk.

Your installer may need the "How To Video"

Michael

Here's the link. You need to read it. Also, read the warranty.