5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofer

 

Hiring a roofer requires more than just picking the first company you find.

To find the best roofing company for your job, there are some questions you should ask when evaluating contractors. Asking the right questions helps ensure you’re working with a reputable contractor and protecting your investment.

So what should you be asking your potential roofing contractors? Our list of questions helps you assess each company and review the information you find.

 

Where’s Your Office?

Roofing companies that “travel” or are unestablished in your area are likely not your best pick.

You want to be sure the company you choose has a local office along with a local phone number. A local office not only shows an established company, but it also tells you that you’ll be more likely to locate them if there’s a problem with your roof.

By asking your potential contractor where their office is located, you can determine for yourself whether or not you’re dealing with a local professional company or a floater company that wants your business now but will be impossible to track down later.

 

Are You Licensed?

Finding a roofing professional who’s licensed, bonded, and insured will protect both you and them while your roofing job is being completed.

Having the proper licensure and insurance helps show that this company takes their business seriously and takes you and your home seriously. The right company will have the appropriate measures in place to protect their employees and their customers in the event that anyone gets hurt.

Ideally, you should see copies of both the license and insurance information. You can also verify the license number and insurance to be sure.

 

Can You Provide References?

Any reputable company should be able to provide you with references from customers, preferably local ones.

If the company declines to provide references, this may indicate they aren’t experienced or that they don’t have any customers that are content enough to vouch for their work. Either way, this should be a red flag when evaluating contractors.

Follow up with the references provided and ask customers about their experience with the company. This simple step can tell you a lot about the contractor you’re considering!

 

What About Warranties?

 

Asking your potential roofing company about what warranties they provide is essential. You need to know that your investment is going to be protected.

Many companies have both a workmanship warranty (also called a craftsmanship warranty) and a material warranty. Ask about their warranties and if you’re provided with paperwork or documentation regarding any warranties, be sure to read it thoroughly and ask questions if needed.

 

Can I Get My Estimate in Writing?

A written estimate should be a foregone conclusion, but be sure to ask regardless. Any experienced, qualified roofing company should provide every estimate in writing.

Your roofing estimate—whether for a repair or a replacement—should be detailed. It should contain information including the date the job will begin and end, the estimated payment, when and in what form payment is expected, and what your job will include (will it include removing the old roof?).

Read through your estimate and ask questions about anything you aren’t sure about.

 

Ready to Find Your Best Contractor?

 

Finding the best contractor for your job is all about asking the right questions. Determining that your contractor is local, checking their license and insurance, and following up with references is essential.

When you find the right roofing contractor, you’ll know. When you’re ready to find your best contractor, schedule your estimates and ask the right questions to find the best fit for you!