Last Updated on October 18, 2020 by Kravelv
The roof is our home’s primary means of protection. So, when looking for a contractor to take care of our roof, we should not simply settle for a good one – we must find the best in town. Whether you need to have your roof repaired or replaced, you will need a qualified roofer that you can trust to deliver quality workmanship. But how do you find the one? In this post, we will give you a simplified guide on how to choose the best contractor.
The Basic Requirements
Below are the primary questions that you should ask to verify whether or not the contractor you are looking to hire will be worth your time.
Are They Properly Licensed?
You need to know if you are dealing with licensed professionals. There are a lot of companies out there that claim that they have professional experience, but a license is pretty much a basic credential that ensures that you are working with a legit business or company.
Are They Insured?
A reliable contractor carries comprehensive liability and workers’ compensation insurance and should be able to show or give you a copy of their insurance certificate. This will ensure that you won’t be held liable for costs caused by shortcomings on the contractor’s end, or by accidents.
Are They Recognized by Industry Organizations and Authorities?
You might want to look up the company you’re considering with the Better Business Bureau. You will also likely find detailed evaluations there, to help you gain a better idea of how the contractor works professionally.
Are They Experienced?
While it is true new companies need to start somewhere, it is still best to hire someone that already has some years of professional experience. Furthermore, length of operation is not the only factor that determines experience – there may be companies that are recent entrants in the industry who have already taken on numerous successful jobs. See if you can get referrals and references. Ask the roofers themselves about their individual experiences as well.
The Job
Below are the questions to ask regarding the job itself.
Do They Provide a Detailed Contract?
A detailed written contract is a must, so always ask for one. The written contract will include terms of service, terms of payment, and all the details of the job. Read the contract thoroughly and do not sign unless you agree with all the stipulations. If you have questions, do not hesitate to ask.
Do They Offer Manufacturer and Contractor Warranties and Guarantees?
Most contractors are trained and certified by the manufacturers whose products they carry. This also gives them the opportunity to offer manufacturer warranties. Furthermore, a good contractor will not hesitate to put a warranty or guarantee on their own workmanship, especially if they are confident about the quality of their work. This is also why hiring a professional is important, as most manufacturers will not honor your warranty otherwise.
Selecting the right contractor should not be that difficult, particularly if you are willing to spend ample time answering the questions provided above. Do not make hasty decisions when hiring a roofer – remember that your roof is an important component of your home and you should not let a non-professional touch it.
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Author Bio:
John Rogers is a passionate roofer and president of Rogers Roofing. He enjoys playing baseball with his sons, and he never misses his daughter’s dance recitals. He also loves helping people, which he hopes to achieve by sharing his experiences in his blog.
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