When it comes to contracting for roofing services, it is critical that you hire the right company. With so many roofing repair companies to choose from, this may seem like an overwhelming task. Fortunately, you can weed out the scam artists and pinpoint the best roofing companies by simply asking a few questions, such as the ones referenced below.
Local Referrals and Customer Reviews
Begin the search for roofing services by asking for referrals from family, friends, and people in your community. You can also search for local contractors online and look for customer reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the level of service offered and if customers are satisfied with the work that was done.
Licensing and Insurance
Always inquire whether the roofing repair contractor is licensed and insured; ask to see proof before agreeing to any work being done. Liability and workers compensation insurance is required by law to protect both you and the contractor. Licensing is not legally required in all places; however, it does indicate that a service is run by a qualified contractor who is interested in doing the best job possible for all clients.
Business Ratings and Manufacturer Designations
Check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see if the contractors you are considering have any complaints filed against them and their overall business rating. Inquire about manufacturer designations from roofing materials companies. When a manufacturer designates a specific contractor, it means that person has passed certification to install those materials and suggests a higher skill level.
Experience and Local Service
A reputable contractor has a permanent business address and will have been at that location for a number of years. Ask roofers how long they have been in business and how long at their current location. Find out what kind of experience they have and what their knowledge is of current materials and roof systems.
Safety Protocols
Besides the need to know that you are dealing with skilled roofing services, you also want to confirm that the contractor you hire is safe and has properly trained employees. Ask about what type of safety training the employees have had and about any safety programs the contractor has in place for employees to follow.
Warranties
There are multiple types of warranties that apply to roofing, each of which is handled in a different way. Ask prospective contractors whether they offer both service and materials warranties and what both of those warranties include.
Ask specifically if their services are covered on a materials warranty and what the process is for getting this kind of work scheduled and performed. Inquire about the length of the warranty and what maintenance you must provide to prevent accidentally voiding it.
Work Estimates
Before you agree to having any work done by a roofing repair company, obtain a written estimate and discuss their contracting process. Insist on an estimate that documents all job information, including what services will be performed and what materials will be used as well as all warranty details. Make sure all of these things are detailed in the price quote. The estimate should also note how cleanup is handled and who is responsible for the cost.
Finding the right roofing repair company may take a bit of research; however, your effort will be well worth the time involved. With the answers to the questions posed above, you should be able to determine which roofing services can help you and which you might be better off avoiding. Once you have found a reputable roofing contractor who can handle your needs, all that is left is to schedule your installation or repairs!
