*This is a collaborative post*
Taking on a roofing project is a big deal, no matter whether it is a series of small repairs and adjustments, or a longer job, like re-roofing your home. When you attempt a renovation project at this scale, you need to make sure that you have the right team in place to be able to meet your specific needs. Finding a reliable roofing contractor with contactable references and a solid track record might sound like hunting for a unicorn, but it can be easier than that if you go about it the right way. Here’s how to do it.
The idea is not to find a contractor that is unable to deliver to your specifications. You should be ready to go through an upfront interview process to Narrow down your options so companies that you truly like and identify with and whom you believe will be able to deliver the work to a standard that is acceptable to you.
Quote, quote, and quote again
Ideally, you should not proceed with making a final decision until you have received at least three different quotes from different contractors. If you can gather even more, so much the better.
When you ask different roofing companies for quotes, make sure that they belong to a valid trade organization or association, and that their membership is up-to-date.
Protecting your home, your biggest asset, is your responsibility, so make sure that you do adequate research before finalizing your decision about which contractor to work with.
Try to look beyond immediate pressure
Sometimes you need your head as a result of an accident or an act of nature such as a storm. Although you will experience some pressure to complete the process as soon as possible the same still holds: the first guy to come in at the lowest price is probably going to waste your money in the long run, so make sure that you still vet at least three companies before allowing them to touch your home.
Carefully consider all quotes that come your way and read through them thoroughly to make sure that you understand the content and limitations of what the contractor has to offer.
Before you sign a working contract with any roofing company in your area ensure that they are covered for general liability and that the workers’ compensation is in place. If you asked for these documents and the company is not able to present them they are very likely not insured, which is a red flag. If anyone gets injured during the process of working on your home you will be liable for any related costs.
Make sure you know what you’re in for upfront
The value of signing off on the fact that you understand the payment terms and conditions before work commences cannot be reiterated enough. Although many contractors do ask for a down payment or a deposit before starting their work you should at all times be clear on what your Commitments are to your contractor and how much do you owe them at what stage of the process. The standard recommendation is to wait until all the work is completed before finalizing your payments. This way you can check if you are happy with the work that’s been done before parting with your money.
Search “roofing contractors near me” and go local
There might be more value to your “roofing companies near me” search than you might have imagined. A local contractor is very likely to know the building codes and limitations in your area. Secondly, the people who live in your area might likely have also made use of this specific contractor and will be able to vouch for the work (or not!). Getting real feedback from real people whom you might even know, can be an invaluable step in the process.
I’m considering adding solar – should I look at solar roofing near me?
Having work done on your roof is not child’s play. Other than being a pricey exercise, it is also something that will affect the value and structural integrity of your home for years to come. Educating yourself about the roofing industry is the only way you will know what you’re letting yourself in for and will allow you to make better decisions from an educated perspective. The same is true for solar additions during this process.
Look for a roofing contractor who communicates openly and honestly, and who does not appear unwilling to answer any questions you may have. If it appears to be the case, you as the customer might not be their first priority, and other agendas might be at play.
