5 Tips to Help Homeowners Choose the Right Roofing Contractor
As stressful as it can feel to need a new roof, many homeowners stress more about finding the right person to handle their roof replacement or repair.
If it’s been a while since you’ve needed a roofing contractor or you’re new to the area, trying to find the right company can feel overwhelming.
With the following five tips, you can more easily narrow down your search and take only the best roofing professionals into consideration for your roofing job!
Start with Referrals
You can begin your search for the right roofing contractor by getting referrals from neighbors, family, or friends. If you can actually see the craftsmanship of a completed job, this is even better. Getting recommendations is a solid way to begin your search.
It’s best if you can get referrals for local companies. This is because local roofing professionals are more likely to be established in the area and have a better chance of being trustworthy. Look for a company that has an address and phone number in the area for your best bet.
Follow Up with License and Insurance Information
After you’ve found some potential candidates for estimates, you can follow up with their license and insurance information. Double checking these two crucial pieces of information can save you lots of stress later on!
The company should have a valid license number in your state and be able to provide proof of insurance for employees, including Workers’ Compensation. You can also take this process a step further by checking the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for ratings of these particular companies.
Consider Contractors with Manufacturer Designations
Some contractors will have what are called manufacturer designations. These designations signify that the contractor has met certain requirements—including minimum experience and education requirements—in order to be certified under this particular manufacturer.
Manufacturer designations are enforced and only certain contractors are eligible for these designations. If the contractor in question doesn’t list any designations on their website, you can inquire about them during your estimate.
Ensure Access to a Variety of Choices
Any good contractor will have a variety of choices for you to choose from when it comes to different shingle types, various roofing material types, and an assortment of colors. Contractors who provide limited choices may not be contractors you want to trust.
Considering that the roofing material type and color will affect the style and value of your home for years to come, it’s essential to go with a contractor that will provide you with enough choices in order for you to make the absolute best one.
Go with Your Gut
Your potential roofing contractor should never make you feel pressured to choose them or to sign anything before you’ve agreed to anything. You should never trust companies that ask for cash before beginning the job. Roofing companies that offer to file your insurance claim for you may also be fraudulent.
Even after doing your research, it’s essential to listen to your gut. If you don’t feel right about the contractor or the company, consider pursuing other options. Any legitimate, experienced company should make you feel good about working with them for your roof repair or replacement.