Replacing or repairing your roof is a big decision. Therefore, you need to work with a highly experienced contractor to ensure you get the job done in the right way.
Unfortunately, finding the right contractor to fix or replace your roof can be a difficult task. You have to weave through a pool of unskilled contractors to find a contractor you can trust and rely on.
To make your work a little bit easier and less stressful, we have compiled a list of some of the critical factors you need to consider while choosing a roofing contractor. Read on to find out everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
1. Ask How Long the Contractor Has Been in Business
In many cases, homeowners allow prices to dictate the roofing contractor they choose to work with. While price is one of the factors to consider, don’t let it be the primary determinant in your search for an experienced roofing contractor. Keep in mind that you will most likely get what you pay for.
If you go for a roofing company that offers the lowest quotation but provides you with a comprehensive list of happy customers they have served before, you will most probably end up with substandard work as well.
Take time to identify a reliable contractor that has been installing roofs in your local area for many years. Such a company will most likely have installed a roof for someone in your neighborhood, which you can use to gauge their workmanship.
2. Warranty
Only a few roofing contractors can offer warranties that include workmanship coverage. In case of improper install, it may take several months or years before the damage shows up. Your home insurance company won’t pay for the damage if they believe it occurred due to improper roof install.
Keep in mind that the roofing company is responsible for ensuring that the roof covering is waterproof, and the professional roofing contractor should warrant the work for at least one year against poor workmanship. The most critical thing you need to do is choose a company that can stand behind its warranty.
3. Check for Licensing and Insurance
Roofing can be a dangerous job which is why property owners never do it themselves. It is essential to have the right materials, tools, and safety equipment. Experience is also critical, but every roofing contractor should carry appropriate licenses and insurance so that you don’t incur losses should the unexpected happen.
The insurance policy covers the roofing technicians in the event someone is injured during roof installation or repair. You should never hire a roof installation company that fails to provide proof of proper insurance for its technicians.
4. Get All the Details in Writing
To keep everything professional, make sure everything you agree upon is put in writing and both parties sign the document. You should retain a copy of the agreement. A professional roofing contractor shouldn’t have any problem with this request.
The contract is especially important if you want to use a financing option. Read the agreement carefully and make sure there are no confusing parts or any hidden stipulations within it. If anything isn’t clear, ask for clarification.