If you need some repairs on your roof, or you are looking at a larger investment, then a roofing contractor is the way to go. Your roof is never a DIY project and you don’t want to leave it in the hands of someone not qualified.
Your roof is what protects you and your entire house. With the proper care and maintenance, it will last for many years. Here are a few ways you can find a great roofing contractor.
Why Hire a Roofing Contractor?
Just like you choose to use the correct tool for a specific job, the same goes for repairs around your home. A general contractor may cost less and your nephew might do it for free, but that doesn’t mean that’s the way to go. A roofing contractor is an obvious choice for any type of work on your roof.
Experience
A roofing contractor has the experience to work on your roof. It’s what they do. This means they are well trained and have the experience that they need to be confident to tackle any issue your roof may be having.
Craftsmanship
A contractor who does general work might have experience with a roof but not someone who works with roofs all the time. This means that their skills have been building and improving for many years.
Safety
It can be a precarious situation up on your roof and you need to know that whoever you hire to go up there understands safety first. A roofing contractor will have the knowledge and the equipment needed.
What Qualifications Does a Good Roofing Contractor Have?
Some qualifications will vary depending on what you need but there are a few standards that you should look for.
- Excellent communication
- Experience
- License and Insurance
- Customer First
- Local references
- History in your area
- Portfolio
- Warranty
Even though you know that you are not their only customer, you should feel like you are. You want to feel heard and feel like they are interested in helping you.
You want to be able to check their references and find a history of them in your city. A quick check of the internet will help. Even if they are a new company, the contractors will all have previous work histories.
You want to see proof of the work they have done and you want to see that they will back it up. When you first contact them, even online, they should have their license number posted.
The Checklist of Things You Should Ask Your Potential Roofing Contractor
When you are hiring a roofing contractor, think of it as you would a job interview. You have these particular needs to be met and you are looking for the most qualified candidate.
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
It might surprise you to learn that many are not. When you go with an established and reputable roofing company, then they likely will be fine. Independent contractors may not.
How long have you been a roofing contractor?
These matters. A deep history of work in your area means they have references and are around if something goes wrong or if you need to find them later on. Just because a company is new doesn’t mean each individual doesn’t have a past.
Do you offer a warranty and for what?
If they offer a warranty, make sure you find out exactly what it covers. A warranty often covers the materials they use but asks if it also covers their workmanship, as well.
Do you have references?
This is also important. If they provide references, call them. You might think that the fact they have them is enough, but you need to talk to them. Check on independent review sites online, as well.
Can I get it all in writing?
Make sure that once you have reached a deal with regard to costs, timeline, and everything, get the written contract before you start or give them any money.
Final Check for the roofing contractor Before You Sign Anything or Pay Anything!
Your roof is a big investment in your home so you want to make sure everything is going to go as smoothly as possible. There are always going to be snags or complications, so you also need to be prepared for that.
- What happens to my old roof
- Will you take care of the clean up
- Are your contractors’ employees or third party
- What type of materials do you use
- Do you need to access my house
- Will you reuse any of my old roofs
- Do I need to be home
- How do we handle the payments
When you choose to hire a reputable roofing contractor, even for a few minor repairs, you are making the best choice for your roof and for your home.
