When it comes to your home projects, doing it right the first time saves you time & money. Your roof system is a crucial part of the integrity of your home, it is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. If the outside of your home is well maintained and properly built, then the inside of your home will be protected!
Your home’s roofing system is only as good as the installation and the materials used. That’s why it’s important to use good quality products and professional contractors when repairing or installing a new roof.
But how do you pick a good roofing contractor?
Do your research on products and techniques, get several estimates, and interview multiple roofing contractors if its time to have your roof replaced.
Don’t rush this process, it’s your home and the roof is an important part of protecting it. Doing it right the first time, is the only way to do it!
Here are my top 6 tips for finding the right roofing contractor:
#1. Only look at roofing contractors with a local address & phone number
When looking at contractors to hire, it’s crucial that you pick one that's local to your area.
Only look for roofing contractors that have a physical office location in your area and a local phone number. This ensures you know where to find them if you ever have a problem with your roof.
Be aware that some out of city roofing contractors come in after a storm, undercut local roofing company prices, get the money, and move on to the next storm-hit town. These companies don’t care about local codes or if they properly install your roof.
On the other hand, a quality local roofing company will know what local installation codes to follow, the paperwork required, and everything else they’ll need to ensure your roof is correctly installed and in compliance with your state’s requirements.
#2. CHECK FOR INSURANCE
Make sure that your contractor has worker’s compensation and liability insurance. Worker’s compensation will provide coverage if a contractor is injured on the job, and general liability insurance protects your home if a contractor damages it while completing work.
Now, not all areas require roofing contractors to have insurance, but you should be looking to hire a roofing company with insurance to protect yourself from lawsuits if the contractor is injured while working on your property.
#3. GET IT IN WRITING
A written contract protects you as the homeowner. If a contractor doesn’t want to provide a formal contract, time for you to find someone else.
The formal contract should clearly outline payment schedules, roofing materials used (brand, type, and color), and a list of subcontractors.
Having a list of the materials being used is really important. Plus a start and end date and details about removing the old roof and inspection of the existing roof, repair or replacement.
The contract should also include details on how the gardens and landscaping will be protected, who is responsible for the cleanup, and any damages to property or your neighbor’s that may occur during the work.
#4. NO CASH DEALS
I don’t ever encourage cash deals but they still do happen – please remember the risk you are taking, no paper trail, no guarantees – nothing! In the event of an issue or a dispute, documentation always wins.
Stay away from a contractor who insists on cash payments. Cash is not traceable.
#5. BE PATIENT. TAKE YOUR TIME.
Finding the right contractor can take a long time. Do your research, ask for recommendations, and look at online reviews, contact as many potential contractors as possible to see who’s out there and available.
You will want to work with an experienced roofing company offering high quality shingles.
#6. WHAT ABOUT PRICE?
When it comes to your roof, your decision should not be based on price alone. A professional roofer who has proper insurance will need to recover their costs through their roofing jobs. If you are getting a great deal with a contractor who can show up on the job site tomorrow, it probably means it’s too good to be true.
To me, that spells trouble and puts up “red flags” in my books. Replacing your roof is a big-ticket item – it’s not cheap. Take your time finding a roofing company, and don’t cheap out on your home.
Most trusted roofing companies provide a free estimate, again get multiple estimates to ensure you are finding the right one