Indispensable Methods For Finding The Right Roofing Contractor
Indispensable Methods For Finding The Right Roofing Contractor
Blog Article
Strategies For Hunting For the Right Roofing Contractor
Choosing the right roofing contractor is one of the most important decisions you can make for your home. A reputable roofing company will do quality work, in a reasonable timeframe and for a fair price.
Look for local referrals, manufacturer designations (like GAF Master Elite contractors), and online reviews. Also, ensure the roofing contractor is licensed and insured.
1. Ask for Recommendations
Whether you are in the market for a new roof or simply need repairs, start by asking for recommendations from friends and family. Word-of-mouth recommendations are a great way to find a contractor with experience, professionalism, and excellent customer service.
You can also search online for reviews on contractors in your area. However, it is important to take these with a grain of salt, as some people can be quite critical and unnecessarily harsh in their reviews.
Also, beware of “storm chasers,” which are out-of-town roofing contractors that canvass neighborhoods after severe weather hits. You can avoid these by checking a company’s website and verifying their location. They should have a local address and phone number, and they should be licensed in your state.
2. Check Online Reviews
When choosing a roofing contractor, online reviews can be very helpful. Many people are honest in their reviews, and they can give you an idea of what to expect if you choose that company for your project.
A legitimate roofing contractor will provide you with a detailed contract that includes all costs, materials, timelines, and warranties. This protects both parties in case of disputes and ensures that the work will be completed according to the agreed upon terms.
A reputable roofing contractor should also have a long history of business. This shows that they’ve been in the industry for a while and have learned from their mistakes over time. A newer company may not be able to offer you the same level of service or a workmanship warranty.
3. Check the Better Business Bureau
Once you’ve identified a few candidates, make sure to check their legitimacy. This involves verifying licensing and insurance requirements as well as assessing accreditations, trade associations, and the company’s establishment and history.
Ask your candidate contractors for personal references and online reviews to get a better idea of their work ethic and customer service skills. Consistently positive feedback is a good sign, while negative reviews that are repeated could indicate a problem.
Finally, make sure to request detailed roofing estimates from each contractor to compare prices and services. A thorough estimate will provide you with a clearer understanding of each contractor’s pricing strategies and allow you to spot any potential issues that may arise during your project. Also, be sure to inquire about any manufacturer warranties and guarantees that each contractor offers.
4. Check the Contractor’s License
In states and regions where licensing is required for roofing contractors, this can be a good indication that the contractor complies with local laws and professional standards. It also provides protections for homeowners, such as being able to pursue legal action if the roofer takes shortcuts during work that lead to costly repairs later.
You can start by simply asking the roofing contractor for their license number, which you can verify online. Be sure to look for details such as the company name and physical address, as well as the license expiry date. A contractor who is hesitant to share their license information or has a history of disciplinary actions should be approached with caution.
5. Check the Contractor’s Insurance
Working with a roofing contractor without the proper insurance is a major red flag. One accident or injury can leave you responsible for medical bills, property damage, and even roof replacement costs if the contractor does not have worker’s compensation or general liability insurance.
Find out how long the company has been in business and look up their insurance policy online to see if it meets your state’s minimum requirements. Also, make sure to ask them for a written estimate and contract that clearly outlines their work, materials, and payment terms.
A reputable roofing contractor will be transparent about mobile home roofing contractors their insurance coverage and have nothing to hide. They will also be happy to work with your insurance adjuster and eliminate any discrepancies during the evaluation process.