Your roof is the first line of defense between you and mother nature. While you and your family are sitting inside safe, warm, and dry, your roof takes the brunt of severe weather conditions and harmful sun rays.
Like anything else in your home, the roof needs maintenance, repair, and replacement. What should you look for when hiring a roofing contractor to repair or replace the roof of your home?
Let’s take a look at three tips to guide you through the process of finding and hiring a local roofing contractor.
1. Referrals and Reviews
Word of mouth is the most powerful tool when looking to hire any professional service to work on your home. Ask neighbors and friends in your area who they have worked with before and who they would recommend.
Start research online to check out roofing installation companies by reading reviews. A good or bad online review can help guide you in choosing the best option. Look for reviews that highlight things like:
- Customer service
- Clarity in pricing and financing
- Completion timeline
- Cleanliness on the job site
Reading about other homeowner experiences will give you an insight into what you might expect or what problems you could run into by choosing that company. Don’t forget to leave a review once your work has been completed. This helps other homeowners just like you to find who they are looking for.
2. Qualifications and Questions
A qualified roofing contractor knows what they are doing, and they are going to do it right the first time.
A roofing company may give you a much lower bid than others, and it may be tempting to go with the cheapest option to save money. If an estimate is significantly cheaper than others you have received, start asking questions to find out where they may be cutting corners. Some additional questions to ask would be:
- How long have you been in business?
- Can you give me three references to call and ask about their experience working with you?
- Will you provide a detailed breakdown of each expense?
- What do you do to keep my property safe and clean during and after roof installation?
- How do you make safety a priority for your workers?
- Do you have any warranties on your products?
Any reputable roofing company will have immediate and clear answers to all of these questions.
In addition to roof work, you may need siding repair or new gutters. Once you find a trusted roofing contractor, utilize them again for other related home improvement projects.
3. Licenses and Liability Insurance
Hire a roofing contractor that has the proper state licensing and insurance. Having a current license shows that your roofer takes their work seriously and stays current with any changing industry guidelines.
Your contractor should have worker’s compensation coverage to protect their employees from potential job injuries. They should also have general liability insurance in case of damage done to your home during the roof installation.
As a customer, you can request to see proof of these documents before signing any contract and moving forward with the work.
You’re Ready to Hire a Local Roofing Contractor
By following these easy guidelines, you are certain to find the qualified roofing contractor you are searching for. While it may take you some time and research, know that it’s time well spent and invested for the sake of your home and all who live there.
Start your research right now. Read the reviews, verify insurance and licensing, and ask every question to know you are making the best choice.