If you are in the market for a new roof, it is important to select the right contractor. There are many factors to consider when making this decision, such as price, experience and reputation. To help you choose the best roofing contractor for your needs, here are 10 tips to get started.
Table of Contents
Get References
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a roofing contractor is their past work. Before hiring any roofer, ask for references from previous customers who have had similar projects done by that company. Also, find out how long they have been in business and if they are licensed, bonded and insured. Verify that your selected contractor has all three credentials.
Request A Written Estimate
Once you have found some roofers that interest you, request written estimates from each of them so you can compare their prices and services. Make sure the estimate includes all the information described above: what will be done and at what cost? If it doesn’t take into account these concerns or costs, such as debris removal or site prep, specify which items will or won’t be included in your contract.
Check Their Licenses And Insurance
Before hiring a roofing contractor, verify they are properly licensed and insured for your state. The majority of states require a license to do any kind of contracting work. Also, some states have specific requirements for contractors who work with asphalt shingles or metal roofs. In addition to following legal requirements, ask the contractor about their liability coverage limits and if they have insurance that covers any accidents that might happen during the project.
Take Note Of Certifications
A certified contractor has passed all licensing exams required by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) in your state. It is important to find out what types of certifications they have because some states allow roofers with only one of the following certifications to work on asphalt shingles or metal roofs.
Check Their Professional Affiliations
One way to verify that your selected contractor is knowledgeable in their field is by finding out if they are members of reputable trade associations, such as the Shingle Association, Metal Roofing Alliance or Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA). These organizations require strict membership guidelines and educational requirements that will ensure your roofer’s expertise. Also, find out which manufacturers or suppliers they use for products and services. If you’re not sure who manufactures the products your roof needs, ask them for a list of brands they recommend. Sometimes these companies offer discounts to customers whose roofers are members.
Choose The Roofer You Feel Most Comfortable With
When choosing a roofing contractor, it is important to remember that they will be working in your home or business for several days so it is essential that you feel comfortable with them. Trust your gut feeling and go with the one who you think will do a good job. You should also make sure that their personality matches yours; if necessary, find someone else. If you’re unsure about any aspect of your chosen contractors’ service, contact customer service at their company to get all the information you need before signing off on anything.
Ask Them About Warranties
Nowadays many companies offer lifetime warranties on products and services they provide along with other guarantees such as a 10-year warranty on workmanship. Ask your roof contractor what warranties they offer and if the manufacturer or supplier require a certification that your chosen contractor lacks, ask them if they have access to the same products from another source at a lower price.
Get It In Writing!
Once you have found a roofing company that meets all of your criteria, make sure everything is clearly stated in writing before signing any documents or finalizing agreements. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – there’s no such thing as a dumb question – and do not agree to anything until you’re completely satisfied with all aspects of the service provided. If any portion of the contract feels vague or unclear, don’t sign it it can be further evaluated by an attorney or another trusted advisor.
Be Careful of Deals that Seem Too Good to be True
Have you ever walked through a home improvement store and heard an employee offer free installation with the purchase of new roofing, siding or windows? Keep in mind that these companies most likely offer these types of deals because they pay their employees very little and they hope to make up for it by making more money from the sale of the products themselves. A legitimate roofing company will not usually give a discount on materials especially if they include expensive items such as metal panels. Also, always avoid roofing companies that only provide estimates over the phone – find out why! If you do choose to hire a contractor who makes house calls, watch them closely and do not allow them to take measurements or photos.
Always Get a Guarantee
If your roofing contractor offers a service guarantee, be sure to read it thoroughly because some will only provide coverage for the first year after installation while others may only cover certain materials such as shingles. Also, make sure that you understand what is covered under the guarantee – if your roof leaks during a heavy rainstorm, can you file a claim?