A roofing project is a substantial investment and you want to ensure that your contractor is a good fit for your needs. The best way to do this is through thorough research and engaging directly with contractors during the estimate process.
The golden rule is to get estimates from three different contractors. However, there are other important questions to ask to their website that can help you narrow down your options even further.
1. Check Their License
It’s always important to check a roofing contractor’s license before hiring them. Not only does this ensure that they are licensed and insured, but it also helps you avoid unscrupulous contractors who take advantage of homeowners by doing poor work.
Many state governments have websites where you can check a business’s license status online. This is a simple and easy way to make sure that the roofer you hire is legitimate. It can also help you weed out scammers who often flock to areas impacted by major storms and offer door-to-door services that claim to cover your insurance deductible. These contractors are often unlicensed and do not have a physical business address.
2. Check Their Insurance
A contractor without insurance is risky for a homeowner. If someone gets hurt during your roofing project or if they accidentally damage something else, such as your home or furniture, you will be responsible for the bills unless you have the right insurance in place.
Many contractors will try to hide their lack of insurance by presenting fake certificates. This is not only illegal but it also shows a lack of attention to detail and the drive to produce quality work. Avoid these contractors at all costs. They will be more likely to cut corners in other areas that won’t benefit your project.
3. Check Their Portfolio
While you may be able to find some information about a roofing contractor from their website or social media pages, it is important to get additional feedback from past clients. By requesting references and inspecting previous projects, you will gain valuable insights into their workmanship, professionalism and adherence to timelines.
A good roofing contractor will have a comprehensive portfolio that showcases their work and expertise. When looking at their portfolio, be sure to focus on projects that are similar to yours and pay attention to the craftsmanship and quality of the roof. You should also look for how they protect their client’s property, answer questions and provide transparency during the project.
4. Check References
A good roofing contractor should have plenty of references that they will be willing to share. Ask them to provide contact information for past customers so you can talk with them about their experience with the roofer. Find out what their overall experience was like and whether or not they would hire them again for future projects.
You should also look for local references from friends, family, and neighbors. You can also check online reviews from other homeowners in your area. Avoid hiring contractors who cannot provide any references or do not have a physical address. These are red flags that they may not be legitimate.
5. Check Their Pricing
The roofing contractor you choose should be able to provide a detailed quote that includes everything from the materials, to the labor costs, to the overhead. You should also include sales tax and any other fees that may be applicable.
It is important to keep in mind that you should not prioritize price over quality. The cheapest contractors are often not the best option.
A reputable roofing company should be able to offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality. They should be able to explain the reasons for their prices and be willing to negotiate with you. They should also be able to give you an accurate timeframe for completion of the work.
6. Check Their Experience
Most quality roofing contractors rely on word of mouth referrals. However, it is important to take recommendations with a grain of salt. Ask for a list of references and follow up on them.
Certified Roofing Services best roofing contractor that has been around for at least a few years. This will give you peace of mind that if something goes wrong with your roof, the company will still be around to honor a warranty.
Ask for price estimates from each contractor you are considering. This will help you compare costs and determine which contractor is right for you. It is also a good idea to meet the roofing contractors in person before hiring them.
